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Writer's picturerachnamone

Oeschinensee : Turquoise jewel of the Bernese Oberland

Updated: Jun 24

Thinking back on our remarkable Swiss adventure, there's one spot that stands out above all else – a place that left us awestruck, nestled far from the crowds. This special place is Oeschinensee lake, a destination that captivated our hearts and minds.

Let me confess, I have a soft spot for lakes and a deep admiration for mountains. So, you can imagine my excitement as I heard about this magical place and finally got to experience it myself.


Oeschinensee lake holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its exceptional beauty.


Allow me to guide you through the allure of Oeschinensee and share how you can embark on your own unforgettable journey.


Oeschinen See (Oeschinen lake) :

Located high up in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland region, at an elevation of over 1500 meters, this lake transforms into a frozen wonderland during the colder months and is a popular place for ice skating and ice fishing. When we visited during the later half of May 2019 , it was not frozen but the water was too cold for a swim ! The lake is surrounded by snow capped mountains and is stunning even on a super cloudy day.





When to visit :

We visited during spring and the walk from Kandersteg railway station to the gondola lift was so beautiful with wild flowers in bloom along the way! However, the lake truly comes alive in the summer (June, July and August). Clear blue skies, hiking trails waiting to be explored, and the thrill of swimming and boating – an invitation that's hard to resist.


Kandersteg

How to get there:

The nearest railway station is Kandersteg. From the station, a leisurely 10-minute walk leads to the Oeschinensee gondola lift, which takes around 15 minutes to reach Oeschinen. A further 20-30 minutes of walking leads to the lake.


Kandersteg train station.
Walk to Gondola lift... spring flowers in bloom everywhere!

If you're up for an adventure, you can hike from Kandersteg to the lake in less than 2 hours, though be prepared for a steep climb. Gondola fares are approximately 13 CHF per person one way, or 20 CHF for a round trip. Swiss Travel Pass holders enjoy a 50% discount.

Views from the Gondola

Food:

When traveling with kids, having snacks on hand is a smart move. We got provisions from COOP at Interlaken West station. Along the lakeside, you'll find two restaurants offering not only delicious coffee and hot chocolate, but also mouthwatering meals against a backdrop of stunning views.


Essential tips:

  • Allocate at least 3 hours to fully soak in the lake's magic.

  • A shuttle bus conveniently connects Oeschinensee and the lake.

  • Restrooms are available at the lakeside restaurants.

  • Mountain air can be chilly, so remember to dress accordingly. And as always, bring an umbrella or raincoat to stay dry and cozy.


In conclusion, Oeschinensee lake is a beautiful place to spend a day. Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable journey?

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