The Bernese Oberland in autumn
/--/uploads/2025/10/brienz-bike-paar-herbst-brienzersee-ts-seeufer-aussicht.jpg)
By Lydie Mutsch, travel consultant
Discover a place for dynamic encounters, a multitude of colours and a paradise for the soul in the highest region of the canton of Bern in Switzerland.
When autumn arrives in the Bernese Oberland, a magical phenomenon occurs: the landscape is transformed into a symphony of golden, coppery and deep green colours. The lakes sparkle in emerald green or intense blue, framed by majestic peaks already dusted with the first snow.
Located in south-western Switzerland, the Bernese Oberland is marked by the Alps and famous for its spectacular panoramas and crystal-clear lakes. In addition to its natural wonders, the region offers a wealth of culture with castles, churches, museums and a multitude of local festivals and traditions.
Autumn is the ideal season to discover this multifaceted region: more peaceful, more colourful and more flavourful than ever.
One region, a thousand worlds
The canton of Bern boasts some of Switzerland’s most impressive landscapes: snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, historic villages and gastronomic delights. From the elegant serenity of Gstaad to the outdoor world around the Jungfrau, via the hidden aquatic wonders of Kandersteg or Lenk, each destination has its own unique charm – and all are easily combinable.
Autumn is particularly conducive to road trips: by car, train or electric bike, you can explore several gems in a small amount of time. Short distances, well-developed infrastructure and exceptional diversity in a small area make the Bernese Oberland a dream destination for lovers of contrasts: relaxation and adventure, nature and culture, pleasure and movement.
Interlaken: Between the magic of lakes and alpine romance
Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the ideal starting point for exploring the region. What makes this place so unique is its proximity to the Alpine giants – the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau – and the rare beauty of turquoise lakes at the foot of peaks rising to over 4,000 metres.
With its many sporting activities, charming historic centre and unmissable excursions, Interlaken offers the perfect balance between relaxation and thrills for contemplative travellers and adrenaline junkies alike.
Panoramic autumn hikes reveal the most beautiful colours of late summer. For a breathtaking view of the town, lakes and mountains, take the funicular railway up to Harder Kulm: at 1,322 metres, the panorama is simply stunning.
On an electric bike, ride along the shores through picturesque villages, green meadows and romantic valleys. A boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz completes this harmonious autumn experience.
Jungfrau Region: Hike, admire and experience
The Jungfrau region is a treasure trove of wonders: Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen and the wild Haslital (with a touch of Sherlock Holmes!). Every corner is a natural masterpiece. Autumn offers exceptional visibility, pleasant temperatures and spectacular colours – perfect for hiking and cycling.
Grindelwald appeals to outdoor enthusiasts: its glacial gorge impresses with its turbulent waters, deep crevasses and – for the more daring of us – a giant 170 m² canvas suspended above the void. For even more extreme sensations there is the ‘Canyon Swing’, a dizzying jump.
Wengen and Mürren offer car-free tranquillity, while Lauterbrunnen amazes with its 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbachfall. The Haslital, meanwhile, charms with its wild nature, peaceful trails and magnificent panoramas. Sherlock Holmes fans will recognise Meiringen, where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle had his famous detective die at the foot of the Reichenbach Falls.
Gstaad Region: Pleasure, authenticity and disconnection
To slow down even more, Gstaad is the perfect place. A true haven for epicureans, the region has a total of 317 Gault & Millau points – a culinary paradise. Not to be missed: the ‘Fondueland Gstaad’, where you can enjoy a fondue in the heart of nature, in specially designed areas with views of the bucolic landscape.
Gstaad embodies authenticity: living traditions such as the ‘Züglete’, the festive descent of decorated cows to the village, folk music, local specialities… a concentration of Alpine culture.
Activity enthusiasts will also find what they are looking for: over 300 km of marked hiking and cycling trails, winding through colourful forests, peaceful valleys and challenging mountain passes, with panoramic views as a reward. To recharge your batteries, wellness hotels and public spas offer a relaxing break after an active day.
Adelboden, Lenk and Kandersteg: Hidden treasures
Away from the main tourist routes, Adelboden, Lenk and Kandersteg are real gems of the Bernese Oberland.
Here, everything revolves around hiking, water and space. In Kandersteg, the deep blue Lake Oeschinen is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, surrounded by spectacular cliffs. Nearby, the mysterious Blausee invites you to take a walk in a golden forest.
The impressive Siebenbrunnen waterfalls in Lenk and the Engstligenfälle in Adelboden are among the most beautiful in the region. For a relaxing break, head to the Gruebi panoramic swimming pool in Adelboden or the Wallbach water park in Lenk: relaxation in the open air and a real balm for the soul.
These three destinations offer authentic experiences, unspoilt nature and warm hospitality – especially in autumn, when the light and landscapes are bathed in gold.
A picture-postcard autumn that makes you want to come back
The Bernese Oberland is a magical place at this time of year, rich in colours, contrasts and emotions. Whether by boat in Interlaken, over a fondue in Gstaad, hiking in the Jungfrau region or in front of a hidden waterfall in Adelboden… this region offers a rare diversity.
The canton of Bern embodies both slowness and adventure, deep relaxation and immersion in nature, sensory pleasure and discovery. A true piece of Switzerland, just as you would dream it to be. And one thing is certain: anyone who discovers the Bernese Oberland in autumn will always want to return.
Credit photo: Adelboden, Engstligenalp: Copyright « Tourismus Adelboden-Lenk-Kandersteg ». Copyright: “Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG » / Copyright «Gstaad holiday region» / Copyright « Jungfrau Region Tourismus AG » / Copyright “Interlaken Tourism”
Photo principale :
Im Herbst am Brienzersee / Automne au Lac de Brienz
Bildcaroussel:
Biken in der Ferienregion Gstaad / A vélo dans la région de vacances de Gstaad
Adelboden Engstligenalp
Gletscherschlucht Grindelwald / Gorge glaciaire Grindelwald
Grindelwald