Leisurely water activities

Feel the breeze, lean back and enjoy – the cruise across the lakes of Biel, Neuchâtel and Murten will take you past picturesque wine-growing villages, lush green vineyards and sweeping fields. By choosing where to board and dis-embark you can make the journey as relaxing or adventurous as you want.

Enjoy the turquoise waters of the Lake Brienz with a boat tour aboard the stylish "Donna Anna". Launched in Venice in 1974, this original Venetian wood boat still retains all its charm. Departing from the BLS pier Interlaken Ost, a range of delightful tours are available on the classy taxi boat.

Special explorer backpacks are available for hire at Diemtigtal Nature Park tourist information, providing everything you need to investigate the properties of water. Kids just love splashing about in the water, but Gwunderwasser water playground also offers all kinds of water play equipment, comfortable wood recliners and a fireplace for barbecuing and relaxing.

Visitors to the region have a wide choice of idyllic riverside barbecuing spots along the banks of the Turbach, Lauibach, Saane and Simme. Whether as a rest stop on a hike or as a day-trip destination – rivers refresh and invigorate. And the popular cervelat sausages always taste best when cooked over an open fire.

Surrounded by the ruggedly romantic mountain landscape of the Saanenland, the Lake Arnen near Feutersoey is a paradise for anglers. Savour the tranquillity of nature along the lakeshore or in a boat. At the picturesque restaurant "Huus am Arnensee" you'll find pedalos and boats for hire, a bait vending machine, a varied menu and an inviting sun terrace.

The blue-green Lake Oeschinen lies high above Kandersteg in a picturesque mountain setting. Fishing permits can be purchased on site, and there is also a rowing boat for hire. All you need to bring along is your own fishing tackle, a fishing rod, worms, and patience.

A rowing boat is the perfect way to enjoy the Lake Engstlen. The peace and quiet from inside the boat is simply heavenly, with the Swiss pines lining the lake in drapes of gentle green. This idyllic setting with a hotel and lots of options for hiking and fishing can be reached from Meiringen via the Gental valley.

The Aare river and its idyllic riverside landscape is delightful even if you choose not to get into the water. Ferries at various points offer an exciting crossing, with plenty of culinary treats awaiting you on the other side: for instance, the ‘Fähribeizli’ in Elfenau Park or the restaurant in the Zehendermätteli.

It might be something for experienced swimmers only, but it’s certainly an exciting adventure and good fun to do as a group. The ‘Aareböötle’ has a cult following and epitomises summer fun on the water! Choose from a range of routes, either with your own rubber dinghy or by renting one locally.