Interlaken sits between two lakes, and areas toward the Thunersee or Brienzersee offer water views and boat access. These lakeside spots trade the buzz of the centre for calm and scenery, making them best for travellers who prioritise tranquil surroundings and views over being in the thick of town.
Toward the Thunersee (west) and Brienzersee (east) you find quieter shoreline settings with lake panoramas and boat piers rather than dense shopping streets. The atmosphere is peaceful and scenic, especially in the evenings, though amenities are more spread out than in the core.
Getting around
Lake boats connect the shores in season, and the two stations (West toward the Thunersee, Ost toward the Brienzersee) link you to central Interlaken, the Jungfrau region and westward trains toward Bern and its airport (BRN).
Before you book this area
- Vibe
- Calm and scenic, oriented toward the water rather than town life.
- Nice touch
- Boat access lets you cruise the lakes directly from near your base.
- Watch out for
- Shops and restaurants can be sparse, so you may need to travel into town.
Frequently asked
Can I take a boat from the lakeside areas?
Yes — piers on the Thunersee and Brienzersee offer scenic boat services, mainly seasonal, connecting to Interlaken and lakeside villages.
Is lakeside a good base for exploring the mountains?
It's scenic and calm, but you'll rely on trains or boats to reach the stations and onward mountain routes.
Comparing areas? See the full Interlaken area guide →
An independent guide to Lakeside (Thun and Brienz shores), Interlaken — honest orientation, no invented data.