Thun is situated at the western end of lake Thun and is best reached from Interlaken by steamer. The boat leaves from the jetty by the side of Interlaken West station and takes about 2 hours to reach Thun, calling in at several stops on the way, according to the timetable. The boat crosses back and forth across the lake, stopping at various places including the St. Beatus show caves, Merligen, Spiez, Oberhofen, and Hilterfingen. There is a restaurant on board, and good photo oportunities especially at the Oberhofen castle.
Once at Thun be sure to visit the old part of the town, reached by crossing
over the two bridges. Also make a point of visiting the castle (Schloss Thun)
which you can tour for a small entrance fee. Climb up to the top and look out
of each of the four turrets, from which there are extensive views of the town
below.
On wednesdays there is a small market on the island between the two bridges.
Return to Interlaken by boat, or by bus from the stop opposite the railway
station, stopping off at the St. Beatus Caves on the way. The caves are
reached by a steep climb up a footpath from the lakeside and the tour of the
caves lasts about 30 mins. You should allow about 1½ hours in all. You
can then catch the next boat back to Interlaken or continue your journey by
bus along the lakeside through the village of Sundlaunen.
Using the Regional Pass: |
|
- Take the steamer on lake Thun from the jetty by the side of Interlaken WEST railway station.
- Return by boat, or bus along the lakeside.
Hints:
- Go on market day (Wednesdays).
- Explore the old part of the town.
- Visit the castle, pay the entrance fee and climb up to the four turrets.
- Stop off on the way back to visit the St. Beatus show caves. (allow 1½ hours).
