The Harder Kulm, often referred to as the "Top of Interlaken," is a stunning viewpoint located at 1,322 meters (4,337 feet) above sea level in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Overlooking the towns of Interlaken and Unterseen, this viewpoint offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the region’s landscapes, including the famous Lakes Brienz and Thun, and the towering peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

Perched on the western end of the Harder Ridge, which is part of the Emmental Alps, the Harder Kulm can be easily accessed via the Harderbahn, a historic funicular railway that has been operating since 1908. The eight-minute ride departs from Interlaken and ascends 735 meters through a lush forest and past a wildlife park, bringing visitors to an upper station just a five-minute walk from the main viewpoint.

Once at the top, visitors can enjoy the unique architecture of the Bergrestaurant Harder Kulm, a castle-like structure complete with turrets and a red-tiled roof. The restaurant offers a selection of traditional Swiss cuisine, best enjoyed from the terrace with expansive views. Families will appreciate the fun playground and picnic area, where children can play while parents enjoy the scenery.

Adjacent to the restaurant is the “Two-Lakes-Bridge,” an observation platform featuring a glass floor that provides a thrilling experience as visitors peer down into the valley below. This airy viewing platform is the perfect spot to take in the sweeping views across the alluvial plains of Bödeli and up the Lütschine Valley to the towering summits of the Bernese Alps.

Although some hiking trails start at Harder Kulm, they are mainly suited for experienced hikers due to the challenging terrain and length of the routes. For those seeking a more relaxed visit, the viewpoint offers an easily accessible and unforgettable experience, providing one of the best panoramic views in the region.

Hoheweg Boulevard is a notable street in Interlaken. It runs east to west from Lanzenan to Harderstrasse following the geographical curve of the Aare River. Visitors to Interlaken should seek out Hoheweg Boulevard for easy access to various spots in the city, plenty of shopping opportunities and dining options.

Some of the notable locations along Hoheweg Boulevard include Interlaken Centre, the Swiss Chocolate Chalet and numerous gardens. The gardens include the English Garden, the Japanese Garden and Schlosspark.

The Hohe Promenade is a smaller, quieter street that circles back to Hoheweg Boulevard. Visitors can stop to take in the serenity of the Mersmann-Brunnen fountain before they return to the busier boulevard.

Hoheweg Boulevard is a good, central point for a walking tour of the city. Visitors will find that their favorite spots, like Casino Interlaken and Hohematte park are only minutes away by foot.

ALSCHER, nestled along Höheweg in the scenic town of Interlaken, is a boutique that seamlessly blends traditional Swiss craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. A fixture in Interlaken’s shopping culture for three generations, this family-owned establishment is celebrated for its diverse collection of high-quality Swiss souvenirs, jewelry, and keepsakes.

At ALSCHER, visitors are greeted by an inviting atmosphere and a knowledgeable staff eager to assist in finding the perfect piece—be it a finely designed Swiss watch, an intricately crafted Victorinox or Wenger knife, or a charming Swiss music box. The store’s collection also includes Goebel porcelain, Anri wood carvings, and other collectible items that reflect the artistic heritage and precision associated with Swiss-made products.

Beyond its assortment of premium goods, ALSCHER is deeply committed to sustainability, working closely with local suppliers and small businesses to ensure that each item on display embodies the highest standards of quality and authenticity. This dedication to excellence makes ALSCHER not only a destination for tourists seeking a memorable memento of their visit but also a beloved spot for locals who appreciate fine craftsmanship.

Whether you are an enthusiast looking to add an iconic Swiss watch to your collection or simply browsing for a unique gift, ALSCHER promises an exceptional shopping experience that celebrates the essence of Swiss artistry and tradition.

Japanese Garden goes by many names. It is sometimes called the Japanese Garden. At other times it is called the Garden of Friendship. This garden was a gift from Interlaken's twin city of Otsu, Japan.

Built in 1995, Japanese Garden was the first Japanese garden in the city. The garden includes a Shinji pond and a pavilion. It is designed to remind the people of Interlaken of the environment of Lake Biwa, near Otsu. The garden features cranes, turtles, numerous trees and a memorial plaque.

The location of Japanese Garden allows for stunning views of the Reformierte Schlosskirche. It is a unique area in the center of the city with a vision of the Alps looming over a traditional Japanese pagoda.

The garden is open 24 hours, seven days per week. It is conveniently located between Hoheweg Boulevard and Schosstrasse with many shopping and dining places located nearby. Visitors can plan a quick stop to see the unique park or choose to linger as they take in the serenity of the Garden of Friendship.

Castle Church (Schlosskirche) is a historic church in the charming town of Interlaken. It is part of the castle complex and situated in a spacious park, which adds to the beauty and serenity of the surroundings. The church has a rich and eventful history, which adds to its charm and significance.

Initially, the Castle Church was not used as a church but rather served as a warehouse. It was only in the 19th century, with the rise of tourism in the region, that the church gained public attention and was restored to its former glory.

In 1909/11, a new neo-Gothic nave was built according to the plans of the local architect Adolf Mühlemann. The old high-Gothic choir with a side tower from the 14th century was also renovated. The exterior of the church is characterized by slender pointed arched windows and a steep hipped roof, which give it a distinctive appearance.

The church's interior is equally impressive, with its five-bay hall and excellent stained glass by Paul Zehnder from 1950-63. The church also boasts a beautiful wall painting by Rudolf Münger, which adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.

Today, Castle Church is a popular tourist attraction and a place of worship for locals and visitors alike. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Interlaken.

Chocolate lovers will love the Swiss Chocolate Chalet on Hoheweg Boulevard. The store is located in the midst of the main boulevard in Interlaken. Conveniently located adjacent to Hohematte Park, it is the perfect place to stop, shop and enjoy the aroma of fine Swiss chocolate.

The Swiss Chocolate Chalet was founded in 2004. The chocolates are made by hand using Swiss milk and high-quality cocoa beans. All chocolates offered at the Swiss Chocolate Chalet are made in Switzerland. They are exclusively sold by the Swiss Chocolate Chalet, which means tourists won't find these treats anywhere else.

The chocolates at the boutique can be overwhelming. Those who want to sample chocolate and have some to take back home might have some trouble deciding what to buy. Classic chocolate bars are available in sampler packs while the store also offers single bars with added flavor like lemon, peppermint, marzipan and orange.

Hohematte Park is a large park in the heart of Interlaken. The land originally belonged to the Augustinian convent. It was purchased by locals in 1860 to ensure it remained an undeveloped, open space. It is a good spot for those who want ample space to play outdoor games, run through the grass, have an outdoor picnic or see spectacular views of the Alps.

The 35-acre park offers many unique features. Some of these include a state of Hindi director Yash Chopra and a working clock made entirely out of flowers. One of the most outstanding features of Hohematte Park is the abundance of paragliders. The park is landing ground for these adventure sport aficionados.

Those who visit Interlaken in the winter will find an ice skating rink in Hohematte Park. There is also a small playground for children that has swings, slides and climbing structures. In addition, park offers walkways, flower beds, park benches and fountains.

The park is open 24 hours, seven days per week.

Nestled in the heart of Interlaken, Casino Kursaal Interlaken is a vibrant hotspot for thrill-seekers and gaming enthusiasts. Just a few steps away from the picturesque Aare River and surrounded by the lush greenery of the Kursaal Gardens, the casino provides a prime setting for an evening filled with excitement and memorable experiences.

Guests are welcome to explore a diverse range of gaming options, from classic table games such as American Roulette, Blackjack, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em, to a vast array of slot machines offering progressive and mystery jackpots. For those who prefer a more modern approach, electronic roulette machines provide additional avenues for testing one’s luck.

The casino’s flexible schedule ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a night owl or a daytime visitor. Slot machines and electronic roulette operate daily from noon until midnight, with extended hours until 3 AM on weekends. Meanwhile, table games (excluding poker) are available from 8 PM to midnight on weekdays and 8 PM to 3 AM on weekends. Poker enthusiasts can join the tables every evening from 10 PM until 1:45 AM.

Beyond gaming, Casino Kursaal Interlaken invites visitors to take a break and unwind at its elegant bar, where a refreshing selection of drinks awaits. For a more tranquil respite, the serene Kursaal Gardens offer a perfect spot for a stroll or a breath of fresh air.

Entry is free, but all guests must be at least 18 years of age and present valid identification. Whether you’re seeking your next big win or simply want to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere, Casino Kursaal Interlaken promises a night of pure, unadulterated fun in the very heart of Interlaken.

The Covered Bridge in Interlaken, also known as Wooden Bridge Unterseen (Holzbrücke Unterseen), is a charming wooden structure that spans the Aare River, linking the picturesque town of Unterseen with central Interlaken. Originally constructed in the early 1800s, this pedestrian bridge is a fine example of traditional Swiss carpentry, using local timber materials to create an aesthetically pleasing yet sturdy structure. Over the years, the bridge has undergone several restorations to maintain its integrity, each time preserving its historical character.

One of the unique features of the Covered Bridge is its gabled roof, which provides shelter for those crossing and protects the wooden planks below from the elements. The interior showcases intricate wooden trusses, a hallmark of Swiss engineering, which not only enhance its visual appeal but also reinforce the bridge’s durability. As visitors walk through, they can admire the craftsmanship up close and even observe engravings and carvings that tell stories of the local history and past renovations.

The bridge’s setting is equally captivating, offering panoramic views of the Aare River’s calm waters, the lush greenery along its banks, and the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland in the distance. It’s a popular spot for photographers, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon when the light creates a magical interplay of shadows on the wooden beams and the river surface.

Today, the Covered Bridge serves both as a functional crossing for pedestrians and as a historical monument. It symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of nature and human creation in Interlaken. Its preservation reflects the town's commitment to maintaining its cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this beautiful piece of Swiss history.