7 Reasons To Visit Interlaken This Summer

Adrenaline junkies, adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and food connoisseurs alike are all flocking to this incredible destination: Interlaken, Switzerland. For U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Europe, Interlaken is a can’t miss during your time deployed abroad.

While Interlaken might be most famously known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps (we’re not gonna argue you on that – it’s totally epic), summer in Switzerland is the ultimate summer travel spot.

Spend Labor Day in the great outdoors, better yet the adventure capital of Europe, Interlaken Switzerland. Located in between two lakes of bright turquoise waters, in the middle of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is the perfect backdrop for the ultimate Labor Day weekend trip. We’ve been lucky enough to call Interlaken our home for the past 17 years, so we like to consider ourselves local experts.

Not yet convinced? Check out these 7 reasons why you need to travel to Interlaken this summer.

1. Canyoning

For all you adrenaline junkies out there, canyoning is unlike anything you’ve tried before. Switzerland and New Zealand are the top 2 destinations in the world where you can take on this heart-pumping activity. You climb boulders, rappel down gorges, and jump off of waterfalls in this can’t miss activity. Check out the video below if you’re still not convinced.

2. Harder Kulm

One of the best hikes in all of Switzerland is climbing to the top of Harder Kulm, conveniently located in Interlaken. Once you reach the top you’ll have sweeping views of Interlaken and the surrounding Swiss Alps.

3. Skydiving or Bungee Jumping

Interlaken isn’t the adventure capital of Europe for nothing. For the fearless, Interlaken is the perfect backdrop for jumping out of a plane and skydiving or jumping out of a cable car and bungee jumping over a lake.

4. Aare River Float

Like outdoor fun, but with more of a relaxed vibe? Say hello to the Aare River Float. Float past breathtaking alpine scenery as you make your way to the picturesque city of Bern on a raft while listening to music and enjoying a cold drink. The crystal clear river is perfect for a refreshing swim on hot summer days where you can float alongside the boat. 

Ready to travel to Interlaken? Head to our website to learn about our weekend trips to Interlaken, specifically designed for Americans abroad.

5. Schilthorn

The Schilthorn is an alpine summit with jaw-dropping panoramic views of a few of the Alps’ tallest (and most infamous) peaks, like the Jungfrau and Eiger. Visitors take cable cars to visit the summit, dine at a revolving restaurant, or walk the sky-bridge over the gaping, icy abyss thousands of feet below. A classic James Bond movie was filmed at the top so you’ll be able to check out the James Bond exhibit on your visit too.

6. Kayaking

Experience nature by kayaking beautiful blue Lake Brienz surrounded by stunning cliffs and an amazing green mountain panorama. Kayaking is the perfect summer activity, a combination of relaxation and adventure.

7. Swiss Food

What is Swiss Food? Glad you asked. First, we have world-famous Swiss chocolate. You can even take a class learning how to make this sweet treat. More of a savory food person? We’ve got you covered with Raclette, which is gooey melty cheese over your potatoes.

Other honorable mentions include Rösti (think a Swiss version of an American skillet) and Älplermakkaronen (Swiss Mac’n’cheese with cripsy onions on top).

If you can believe it, this is only scraping the tip of the Alpine peak of what Interlaken has to offer travelers during the summer months.

Bus2alps has been showing Americans everything Interlaken has to offer for over 17 years and has put together the perfect trip for US Armed Forces stationed in Europe this Labor Day weekend. Learn more about our trips here!