Bernese Oberland

Self guided walking & cycling holidays in Switzerland

The Bernese Oberland, or literally the Bernese Uplands, are a large section of extensive mountains, moors, forests and glaciers that cover the central section of Switzerland. The region offers some of the finest promenades, peaks and views in Switzerland that can be taken in on an active holiday. 

With its rich flora and fauna and fine views, the Bernese Oberland offers the ideal introduction to hiking in the Swiss Alps. The area has walks with different grades and distances. The added advantages for walking in the Bernese Oberland, is the classic triptych that you get of the peaks of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau overlooking the valley towns of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. Walking alongside these lends a panoramic perspective while the celebrated mountain town of Zermatt lies just below the towering Matterhorn in the Swiss Valais. Or ascend by bike from Interlaken to the Bernese Oberland town of Meiringen and take a local train to the Brünigpass (1008m) on our Swiss Lakes Cycle. 

The species and profusion of flowers and colours that you can find here throughout the year is beautiful. In terms of fauna, look out for the mountain choughs, nutcrackers, siskins and falcons. Occasionally you may even spot a grand golden eagle riding the thermals up into the sky. Marmots call out from the Alps and there’s the occasional chamois or ibex.  

From the Swiss towns, it is easy to experience mountain railways such as the Wengernalp Railway, the Schynige Platte Railway, and the railway to the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at nearly 12,000 feet. 

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Why travel with us

Personal Experience of the Bernese Oberland

Our team have been walking in Switzerland for over 5 decades. We are passionate about the Swiss mountains, active holidays and delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of the UK & Europe and bring a multi-disciplined, multicultural and whole-hearted love of all things travel.

Great Value & Quality Trips in the Bernese Oberland

Our active holidays in Switzerland are well priced offering great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. When you book, your trip will be fully organised by a dedicated member of our in-house team, so you will always know who you are dealing with. We take the stress out of organising your Bernese Oberland trip.

Local Knowledge of Switzerland's Bernese Oberland

We place great emphasis on researching, planning and crafting innovative itineraries of the Bernese Oberland to ensure you get the very best experience out of your trip. We believe relationships are important and have been working with many of our hoteliers and local suppliers for years. This means that they know exactly what our travellers expect.

Responsible travel

Walkers' Britain is committed to responsible travel and true sustainability. We take travellers to many countries which are home to challenging wilderness, rich biodiversity, and fragile environments. It is the travel choices we make while visiting these environments that reduce the negative impact. This is the essence of responsible and sustainable travel - something we take very seriously. View our award winning Responsible Travel Guidebook here.

Accommodation

Handpicked Hotels

On most Bernese Oberland hiking holidays we stay in a range of 2-4* hotels, often family run. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose properties that add to your experience.

Refuges or Gîte Hostels

Used mainly on mountain walks, these convivial places add to the atmosphere of your journey through the mountains. Dorms may sleep up to 40 people and the beds are often bunkbeds. Linen and blankets are provided and bathrooms are shared. Private rooms may be available, although private gîte rooms still use shared bathrooms.

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