✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Kandersteg sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled amidst the towering Swiss Alps, Kandersteg is a glittering gem of a destination that promises to unfold a world of adventure and enchantment like no other.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a mountaineer, or simply seeking to unwind in an idyllic alpine setting, Kandersteg holds something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and be ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this alpine paradise that awaits your arrival.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kandersteg:
1. Oeschinensee Lake
Oeschinensee Lake is a crystal-clear alpine lake nestled in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland, surrounded by stunning panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and verdant forests.
What to see or do: Take a scenic ride on a cable car from Kandersteg to reach the lake. Once there, spend your day swimming, fishing, or paddle-boating in the pristine waters.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore the many trails around the lake, ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the lake during the Winter months and catch a glimpse of the magical frozen lake surrounded by the snow-covered mountains.
Insider travel tips: -Arrive early, as Oeschinensee Lake can get crowded during peak season.
2. Sunnbuel Cable Car
A cable car that takes you to the peak of Sunnbuel Mountain in Kandersteg, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, take a scenic hike, or bike through the mountain trails during summer. During winter, ski or snowboard down the snowy slopes.
Don’t miss: Take a visit to the Hinderi Spillgerte, a small lake nearby with crystal-clear water that is perfect for a swim or a picnic.
Insider travel tips: – Bring warm clothing, even during summer, as the peak can get chilly.
3. Allmenalp Cable Car
The Allmenalp Cable Car is a popular mode of transportation for tourists visiting the village of Kandersteg in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The cable car offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-do attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
The ride takes about 10 minutes, and once you reach the top, there are several hiking trails and mountain restaurants to explore.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the AlpKultur Museum at the top of the cable car station. It showcases the traditional culture and lifestyle of the Swiss Alps.
Insider travel tips: – Check the weather forecast before going. The views from the cable car are best on clear days.
4. Staubbachfall
Staubbachfall is a magnificent waterfall located in the village of Lauterbrunnen in the Swiss Alps. With a height of 297 meters, it is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall from various viewpoints located throughout the village. Take a short hike to the base of the fall and feel the mist of the crashing water.
Visit the nearby Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible by a funicular lift.
Don’t miss: Experience the Staubbachfall by night, when it is illuminated with different colors, presenting a beautiful and magical view.
Insider travel tips: The waterfall is easily accessible by train or car, and there is plenty of parking available in the village. Visit during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb some stairs to access certain viewing points.
5. Gemmi Pass
A high mountain pass between the cantons of Bern and Valais in Switzerland, reaching an elevation of 2,270 meters.
What to see or do: Take the cable car from Kandersteg and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and glaciers along the way.
Experience the thrill of hiking or skiing on the slopes of Gemmi Pass, depending on the season.
Don’t miss: The Daubensee, a picturesque Alpine lake located at the top of the pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
You can also indulge in some delicious Swiss cuisine at the Gemmi Pass hotel or the Berghaus Restaurant.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring warm clothing, as the temperature drops significantly at the top of the pass. Additionally, the cable car operates only during the summer and winter months, so plan your visit accordingly.
For a unique experience, consider staying overnight at the Gemmi Pass hotel and witnessing the sunrise over the mountains.
6. Gasterntal Valley
Gasterntal Valley is a secluded valley in Kandersteg, Switzerland.
Tucked away, it is surrounded by majestic mountains and is accessible only on foot, by bike, or via the seasonal bus service.
What to see or do: This picturesque valley offers outstanding natural beauty, with lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, alpine meadows, and the pristine waters of the Gasterenbach stream.
Experience the stunning scenery on one of the many hiking trails or rent a bike to explore the area.
Don’t miss: The Gasterntal Valley is home to several traditional Swiss Alpine huts, serving up delicious local cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the regional specialties while enjoying stunning views of the mountains.
Insider travel tips: For the ultimate experience, stay in one of the rustic mountain huts overnight and wake up to the breathtaking scenery.
7. Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC)
Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) is a world-famous campsite located in the Swiss Alps.
It is owned and operated by the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) and welcomes scouts and non-scouting groups from all around the world.
What to see or do: – Participate in high-adventure activities like rock climbing, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Don’t miss: – The beautiful views of the Swiss Alps from the campsite.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to bring warm clothes, even in summer, as the weather in the Swiss Alps can be unpredictable.
8. Rodelbahn Oeschinensee (Oeschinensee Toboggan Run)
Rodelbahn Oeschinensee is a thrilling toboggan run located near the beautiful Oeschinensee lake in Kandersteg, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Experience a thrilling ride on the toboggan run as you hurtle down the mountain, twisting and turning through the snow-covered landscape.
It’s an exciting activity suitable for adults and children alike, offering an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of the Oeschinensee lake and the breathtaking Swiss Alps as you ride the toboggan.
Insider travel tips: – Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for the snow.
9. Blausee
A beautiful alpine lake in the mountains of Kandersteg, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll around the clear blue waters while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. There is also a small nature park next to the lake with several animal exhibits.
Don’t miss: Renting a paddleboat to explore the lake and getting a closer look at the underwater life.
Insider travel tips: The lake can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, so try to visit early in the morning or in the evening for a more peaceful experience.
There is also a restaurant overlooking the lake that serves local Swiss cuisine, which is worth a stop for a bite to eat.
10. Kandersteg-Sunnbuel-Hike
The Kandersteg-Sunnbuel-Hike is a 10-kilometer long trail that takes hikers through the scenic landscapes of the Bernese Alps.
What to see or do: On the hike, visitors can see snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The trail also passes through alpine villages where hikers can witness the local lifestyles and culture.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the hike is the view from the top of the mountain at Sunnbuel. From here, hikers can see the magnificent views of the Oeschinen Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: Hikers should carry enough water and snacks for the trail. The best time to do the Kandersteg-Sunnbuel-Hike is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is good.
Hikers should also wear proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and layers of clothing, as the temperature can vary at higher altitudes.
11. Kandersteg-Selden-Bus
Scenic bus route from Kandersteg to Selden.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the Swiss Alps, waterfalls, and quaint villages along the way. The pristine Alpine landscape offers great opportunities for hiking and photography.
Don’t miss: Take a short hike to the impressive Blausee, a crystal-clear mountain lake with a unique blue hue.
Insider travel tips: The bus runs only during the summer months and has limited seats, so book in advance. Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothes as the weather can change quickly.
12. Spittelmatte-Cable Car
A cable car ride that takes you from Kandersteg up to the Spittelmatte mountain station.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the Swiss Alps as you ride up the cable car.
Once you reach the mountain station, you can go hiking or mountain biking on the numerous trails that start from there.
In the winter months, you can go skiing or snowshoeing in the area.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the top of the cable car. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in the summer, bring plenty of water and sunscreen as it can get quite hot at the mountain station.
In the winter, dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for snow and ice. Consider buying a round-trip ticket in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket office.
13. Frutigen-Kandersteg Bike Trail
The Frutigen-Kandersteg Bike Trail is a thrilling mountain bike trail that spans a distance of 27 km (16.7 miles) and connects the towns of Frutigen and Kandersteg in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The trail takes approximately 3 hours to complete and offers riders stunning views of the Swiss Alps, including the towering peaks of the Blüemlisalp massif and the Oeschinensee lake.
Riders will also encounter varying terrain and landscapes, from adrenaline-pumping downhill descents to mellow stretches of meadow and forest paths.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a break and dip your toes into the cool waters of the Oeschinensee lake, considered to be one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain lakes.
Insider travel tips: – This is an intermediate to advanced trail, so make sure to bring proper mountain biking gear, including a helmet and protective padding.
14. Balmhorn Hut
Balmhorn Hut is a mountain hut located in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland, with an altitude of 3,695 meters.
What to see or do: The mountain hut serves as a base for climbers and hikers who wish to explore the surrounding mountains. From here, visitors can see panoramic views of the Bernese Alps and the Jungfrau region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to hike to the summit of Balmhorn mountain, which stands at an impressive 3,698 meters. It’s a challenging climb that offers unbeatable views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to book your stay in advance, especially during peak climbing season.
15. Sennhütte (Mountain Hut)
Sennhütte is a mountain hut located in the Swiss Alps near Kandersteg village.
What to see or do: The hut provides hikers with shelter for overnight stays while they explore the scenic beauty of the mountains. From Sennhütte, hikers can access several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and alpine lakes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing sunrise from the hut’s balcony, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own sleeping bag and food supplies as the hut only provides basic facilities.