Bönigen is a picturesque village on the southern shore of Lake Brienz, just minutes from Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland. Known for its traditional wooden chalets, stunning lake views, and proximity to the Alps, Bönigen is a peaceful base for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Beach – Bönigen Lakeside Lido

A family-friendly beach and pool area right on the lake.

Features:

• Sandy beach with shallow water entry

• Heated 25-meter outdoor pool (~24°C)

• Kids’ splash pool

• Floating aquapark on the lake (with trampolines and more)

• Rooftop lounge with panoramic views

• Playground, boccia lanes, and snack bar options

Culture & Museums

Village Museum “Alte Pinte”
A small museum showcasing Bönigen’s 800-year history.
Located in a beautifully preserved traditional building – a great rainy-day activity!

Lake Activities

Kayaking & SUP

• Rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUP), and pedal boats

• Guided tours available from Hightide Kayak School

• A perfect way to explore the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz

Jetboat Rides

• High-speed adventures with spins and splashes – great for thrill seekers!

Lake Cruises

• Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Brienz aboard historic vessels, including the 1914 steamship Lötschberg

• Connects Bönigen with Brienz, Iseltwald, and the famous Giessbach Falls

Where to Stay

Bönigen offers:

• Cozy guesthouses and B&Bs

• Vacation apartments

• Nearby camping options like Camping Bönigen, right on the lake

It’s quieter than Interlaken but still very well-connected by public transport and roads.

Hiking & Nature

• Over 500 km of nearby hiking trails – from easy lakeside walks to alpine hikes with breathtaking views

• Close to iconic spots like Harder Kulm, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch

• Tip: Try the trail from Bönigen to Iseltwald along the lakeshore – part of the Netflix Crash Landing on You filming route

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–September): Ideal for swimming, hiking, and boating

• Spring/Autumn: Quieter with colorful scenery

• Winter: Peaceful, close to ski resorts like Grindelwald/Wengen – though lake activities are closed

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Bönigen Tourist FAQ

1. Where is Bönigen located?
Bönigen is a lakeside village in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, on the southern shore of Lake Brienz. It’s just a 5-minute drive or 10-minute bus ride from Interlaken.

2. How do I get to Bönigen?

• By train: Take the train to Interlaken Ost, then bus line 103 to Bönigen

• By car: Reachable from Bern, Lucerne, or Zurich in 1–2 hours

• By boat: BLS lake cruises stop in Bönigen during the sailing season

3. Is Bönigen a good alternative to staying in Interlaken?
Yes! It’s quieter, more authentic, and still close to all the main attractions. Great for a relaxing stay with easy access to adventure.

4. What are the top things to do in Bönigen?

• Relax or swim at “The Beach” lakeside lido

• Go kayaking, SUP, or rent a boat

• Take a cruise on Lake Brienz

• Hike in the surrounding Alps

• Visit the local museum

• Have a picnic or BBQ by the lake

5. Are there shops and restaurants in Bönigen?
Yes, including:

• A grocery store (Volg)

• A bakery

• Several restaurants, cafés, and a pizzeria

• Small souvenir and outdoor gear shops

6. Is there a campsite in Bönigen?
Yes – Camping Bönigen is a well-equipped lakeside campground offering spots for tents, caravans, and mobile homes. It’s very popular in summer.

7. Can I swim in Lake Brienz?
Yes! The water is clean and clear (but chilly).
The best spot is Strandbad Bönigen, with pools, beach access, and fun lake features.
Note: Even in summer, lake temperatures are usually between 17–22 °C (63–72 °F).

8. What’s the best time to visit?

• Summer (June–September): Warm and perfect for outdoor activities

• Spring/Autumn: Peaceful and colorful, great for sightseeing

• Winter: Quiet and relaxing, near ski resorts, but lake activities are closed

9. Are English speakers welcome?
Absolutely. Most locals in tourism and hospitality speak English, German, and French.

10. Is Bönigen family-friendly?
Yes! The calm lake, playgrounds, beach, and easy nature trails make Bönigen ideal for families with children.