Interlaken: Scenic Walk and Raclette by the Mountain Lake

Planning a day in the Swiss Alps that combines gentle outdoor activity with authentic local flavor? This Interlaken Scenic Walk and Raclette by the Mountain Lake promises a relaxed yet memorable experience. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a light adventure, stunning vistas, and a taste of Swiss tradition—all wrapped into a manageable six-hour trip.

What makes this tour stand out? The easy hike from Axalp to Hinterburgseeli offers breathtaking views without the strenuous climbs, making it suitable for families or anyone wanting a laid-back day in nature. Plus, the lakeside raclette—Swiss cheese melted to perfection—adds a delicious, authentic touch.

A potential consideration? The tour maxes out at eight participants, ensuring a cozy atmosphere, but that also means booking in advance is wise. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic walking, local stories, and a relaxed gourmet experience. If you’re after a day of easy exploration with stunning scenery and good food, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Gentle, family-friendly hike suitable for all fitness levels
• Stunning viewpoints along Lake Brienz and in Axalp
• Authentic Swiss raclette served lakeside in a peaceful setting
• Includes free pick-up and drop-off from Interlaken Ost
• Knowledgeable local guides sharing stories about the area
• Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off from Interlaken Ost, where the friendly guides will meet you at the front Coop entrance. The group then embarks on a scenic drive along Lake Brienz, a highlight in itself, with azure waters and mountain views that make the journey feel almost as good as the destination. The drive up to Axalp is smooth and comfortable, providing ample opportunity to soak in the Swiss landscape even before the walk begins.

The Walk: From Axalp to Hinterburgseeli

The walk is described as light and family-friendly, with no steep climbs or challenging terrain. Instead, it’s a leisurely 3-hour stroll through alpine meadows and mountain paths. This relaxed pace is perfect for soaking in the scenery—think lush greenery, mountain peaks, and maybe even some local wildlife.

One reviewer, who called the tour “such a wonderful experience,” appreciated the guides’ storytelling and local insights. Guides Zusi and Ryan are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude—making the walk educational without feeling like a lecture. Expect to hear stories about the area’s history and natural features, which enrich the experience beyond just taking photos.

The Scenic Highlights

Along the way, you’ll get to admire stunning viewpoints that showcase the beauty of the Bernese Alps. The walk itself is a feast for the eyes—rolling meadows, mountain ridges, and the peaceful Hinterburgseeli lake. The lake is a highlight, providing the perfect backdrop for the raclette experience.

The Raclette Lakeside Experience

Once at Hinterburgseeli, you’ll be treated to a traditional Swiss raclette lunch. The setting is just as appealing as the food—lakeside in tranquil surroundings, with the melted cheese and crusty bread served in the open air. This is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to savor Swiss culture in a stunning natural setting. One traveler described it as “the perfect spot to relax, enjoy some good food, and soak in the serenity of the Alps.”

Photos and Memories

The guides will take some photos of your group—capturing the moment at the lakeside and during the walk. You’ll receive these afterward, helping you preserve the memories of a day spent in nature and good company.

Return Journey

After lunch, the walk back to Axalp is straightforward, with plenty of time to reflect on the views or chat with your guides. The group then heads back to Interlaken, where a drop-off at Interlaken Ost concludes the day.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $226 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded mix of gentle adventure, culture, and delicious food. The inclusion of free pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, and lakeside raclette adds significant value, especially considering the personalized small-group atmosphere.

Compared to other Swiss alpine experiences, this tour is quite accessible financially, considering the high-quality scenery, informal yet informative guiding, and authentic Swiss meal. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of the mountains without the rigors of strenuous hikes or expensive excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers, especially those who prefer a relaxed pace and meaningful interactions with guides. Families with children over nine will find it ideal, as it’s not overly strenuous and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and local food. Couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a calm, scenic day in the Alps will also appreciate the intimate setting and stunning views.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Interlaken Ost, the tour quickly shifts gears from urban to natural beauty. The scenic drive along Lake Brienz allows travelers to settle into the Swiss mountain vibe, with enough time to snap photos or simply enjoy the landscape.

Once in Axalp, the walk begins through gentle terrain. The guides’ stories help connect visitors to the area, offering snippets about local history, flora, and fauna. The views are consistently impressive, with panoramic mountain vistas and alpine meadows setting the stage for the lakeside raclette.

The lakeside picnic is a true highlight—enjoying melted cheese and crusty bread in front of Hinterburgseeli’s tranquil waters creates a memorable moment of Swiss authenticity. The photos taken here will remind you of a peaceful day in nature, with the mountains as your backdrop.

The return walk is equally relaxed, with plenty of time to unwind and chat. The entire experience is designed to maximize enjoyment without rushing, making it perfect for those who want to relax and absorb the serene atmosphere.

Additional Insights from Travelers

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides—not only friendly but also eager to share local stories and tips. One reviewer noted, “Our guides Zusi and Ryan were amazing and very knowledgeable,” which underscores how much a good guide can enhance such a nature-based experience.

Several mention the stunning scenery—“the scenery is incredible,” and the views from the mountain paths are described as “breathtaking.” The lakeside raclette, according to reviews, is “delicious,” emphasizing the value of enjoying Swiss cuisine in a setting that feels both authentic and special.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for light walking; the terrain isn’t difficult but good footwear helps.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenic views and lakeside moments.
• Since the tour is small, booking in advance is recommended to guarantee a spot.
• The tour does not include alcohol or drinks during the trip; consider bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Suitable for children over 9 years old, so families should plan accordingly.
• The pick-up point is at the front Coop entrance at Interlaken Ost station, so arrive a few minutes early.

The Sum Up

This Interlaken Scenic Walk and Raclette offers a compelling mix of easy adventure, authentic Swiss cuisine, and stunning mountain scenery. It’s a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Bernese Alps without the physical demands of strenuous hikes. The small-group setting, guided insights, and lakeside meal make it both personalized and memorable.

Ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, photo-worthy day with good food in a peaceful environment, this tour balances comfort, culture, and nature beautifully. It’s particularly suited for those with families, couples, or anyone seeking a taste of Switzerland’s scenic charm in a laid-back way.

In short, if you’re after a scenic, authentic, and stress-free mountain experience that includes a delicious Swiss tradition, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be over 9 years old, as the walk is considered family-friendly but still involves some outdoor activity suitable for older kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must—think sturdy sneakers or light hiking shoes—plus layers depending on the weather. The terrain is gentle, but good footwear makes the walk more enjoyable.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the guides will pick you up from Interlaken Ost station and drop you back after the experience, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the walk?
The walk itself lasts about 3 hours, with a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided walk, lakeside raclette lunch, and the round-trip transportation from Interlaken Ost. Photos are also shared afterward.

Is the raclette prepared on-site?
Yes, the raclette cheese is melted right there lakeside, enhancing the authentic Swiss culinary experience.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol?
Alcoholic drinks are not permitted during the trip, either in the vehicle or at the raclette spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized outing.

This tour offers a relaxed, visually stunning way to connect with Swiss tradition and alpine beauty without the need for strenuous effort. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the mountains at a gentle pace while savoring local flavors in a serene environment.