Starting Your Walk at Interlaken Ost

The journey begins just behind the Interlaken Ost train station near the boat docks. You will find clearly marked signs pointing toward the riverside pedestrian trail. This route is a key part of the many Aare River walking routes available. Most visitors can complete this gentle stroll in about thirty to forty minutes.

The path is paved and remains almost entirely flat for the whole distance. This makes it a great choice for families with small children or strollers. You can walk at a very leisurely pace to enjoy the fresh mountain air. The trail follows the northern bank of the river for the most scenic experience.

Keep an eye out for the yellow hiking signs found throughout Switzerland. These signs provide accurate timing and distance information for all local walkers. You will pass by the local youth hostel and several charming garden areas. The path feels very safe and is well-maintained by the local council.

• Start location: Behind Interlaken Ost station
• Total distance: Approximately 2.5 kilometers
• Walking time: 35-45 minutes at a slow pace
• Difficulty level: Very easy and fully accessible

Scenic Highlights of the Aare River

The water of the Aare River has a striking turquoise color that looks magical. This unique hue comes from tiny glacial particles flowing down from the high mountains. You will find many scenic walks in Interlaken 2026 that feature this water. The color changes slightly depending on the light and the current season.

Look toward the south to see the famous peaks of the Bernese Oberland. The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains tower over the valley in the distance. These snow-capped summits provide a dramatic backdrop for your entire riverside journey. Make sure to bring a camera to capture these iconic Swiss views.

The river banks are lined with lush trees and colorful seasonal flowers. You might see local ducks and swans swimming gracefully in the clear water. The sound of the flowing river creates a very peaceful and calming atmosphere. It is a wonderful escape from the busy shopping streets of the center.

Crossing the Historic Bridges

Several historic bridges connect the two sides of the river along this path. The most famous ones are made of traditional wood with protective tiled roofs. These structures are excellent examples of classic Swiss engineering from past centuries. They offer great vantage points for looking straight down the long river.

You can cross these bridges to explore the quieter residential areas of town. Each bridge offers a slightly different perspective of the surrounding mountain ranges. Some bridges are for pedestrians only while others allow small local vehicles. Always use the dedicated walkways to stay safe while crossing the water.

One specific bridge near the town center features a historic river weir. This mechanism helps control the water level of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. The rushing water creates a powerful sound and a cool mist on warm days. It is a popular spot for locals to stop and watch the river.

Exploring the Old Town of Unterseen

Your walk concludes in the charming old town district known as Unterseen. This area feels like a step back in time with its historic buildings. The central square features a beautiful church with a very tall spire. You will find traditional wooden houses decorated with bright geranium flowers.

Unterseen is much quieter than the main tourist areas near the Interlaken stations. There are several small bakeries where you can buy fresh Swiss pastries. Sit at a local cafe and enjoy a coffee while watching village life. The atmosphere here is authentic and very welcoming to all visitors.

Take some time to wander through the narrow side streets and alleys. You will discover small boutiques and craft shops hidden away from the crowds. The Stadthausplatz is the main square and often hosts local community events. It is the perfect place to end your scenic river walk.

• Main attraction: The historic Stadthausplatz square
• Dining: Local Swiss restaurants and cozy cafes
• Atmosphere: Quiet, authentic, and very historic
• Return route: Walk back or take a local bus

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Wear comfortable walking shoes even though the path is mostly paved. A light jacket is useful because the river breeze can feel quite cool. The path is open to the public every day of the year. Morning light is often the best for taking photos of the mountains.

You will find several benches placed at regular intervals along the river. These are some of the best riverside picnic spots in Interlaken town today. Bring some local cheese and bread for a simple outdoor lunch. Always remember to take your trash with you to keep Switzerland clean.

Public restrooms are available at both the starting and ending points. You can also find clean drinking water fountains along the main path. Most of these fountains provide fresh alpine water that is safe to drink. This walk is completely free and requires no tickets or bookings.