Wilderswil is a charming village that offers much more than just a scenic setting for exploring the surrounding Bernese Oberland. Its strategic location makes it an excellent starting point for some of the best bike tours in the region. What sets Wilderswil apart? It’s the combination of lush landscapes, historic sites, and easily accessible lakes. For example, the Discover Interlaken – Lakes, Ruins & Views E-bike tour takes you between Lakes Thun & Brienz, past medieval castles, along alpine rivers, and to panoramic viewpoints—delivering a well-rounded Swiss adventure. This tour is perfect if you want a mix of nature, history, and stunning vistas without spending all day on your bike.
Of course, if you’re craving a slightly longer ride with some village-hopping and waterfall views, the Interlaken: Explore Iseltwald & Giessbach E-bike tour is an excellent pick. It includes visits to picturesque villages, waterfalls, and the famous Giessbach Hotel, making it ideal for those who love a combination of water, mountain scenery, and some charming stops. Both tours deliver a different slice of the Bernese Oberland, appealing to diverse cycling interests and fitness levels.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of these top bike tours, highlighting what makes each one special, who they’re best for, and tips for booking. Whether you’re looking for a quick scenic spin or a more leisurely exploration, these options have you covered.
1. DISCOVER INTERLAKEN – LAKES, RUINS & VIEWS E-BIKE TOUR
This 4-hour e-bike tour covers a lot of ground—between Lakes Thun & Brienz, passing by castle ruins like Unspunnen and Weissenau, with plenty of chances to take in breathtaking views from the Heimwehfluh viewpoint. The ride is designed for a broad audience, with electric bikes making the hills manageable even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.
What makes this tour stand out? It combines historical sights with natural beauty and scenic stops, such as riding along three alpine rivers—Lütschine, Lombach, and Aare. The itinerary includes exploring Unterseen, a charming old town, and lakeside Bönigen, offering both cultural charm and lakeside tranquility. The tour starts with a safety briefing and a manageable 30-minute e-bike ride, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Guests emphasize the variety—“We loved seeing the castle ruins and the panoramic views from Heimwehfluh,” one review states. The tour’s value lies in its mix of scenery, history, and ease. It shines brightest for those who want a balanced day covering lakes, castles, and mountain vistas without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic, and easy-paced ride with plenty of photo stops.
2. INTERLAKEN: EXPLORE ISIELTWALD & GIESSBACH E-BIKE TOUR
This 4.5-hour tour is perfect for those who want to combine lakeside scenery with some charming village visits. It kicks off in Wilderswil near the historic Schynige Platte railway, then takes you across a hydraulic wooden bridge into alpine pastures. The highlight is reaching the fishing village of Iseltwald, with its iconic pier and tranquil harbor views on Lake Brienz.
Next, you walk beneath the Giessbach Waterfalls, a cascade that’s well worth a stop, followed by a visit to the Grand Hotel Giessbach—a Belle Époque masterpiece from 1873. The tour emphasizes soaking in water scenery, with plenty of time to walk around and appreciate the waterfalls and lakeside vistas. The electric bikes make the climbs manageable, even if you’re not an avid cyclist.
The itinerary includes cheese tasting in Iseltwald, adding a flavorful local touch, and a full hour riding through scenic countryside back to Interlaken. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures a more personal experience, and the guided commentary enhances your understanding of the area’s natural and historical features.
People rave about the waterfalls and village charm—“The ride to Giessbach was stunning, and the waterfalls are breathtaking,” one rider notes. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of water views and village charm.
Bottom line: A great pick for water lovers and those interested in experiencing lakeside villages with some light walking and a taste of local flavor.
How to Choose Between These Bike Tours
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests and fitness level. The Discover Interlaken tour offers a broader mix of lakes, castles, and mountain panoramas in a shorter time, perfect if you want a quick but diverse experience. Conversely, the Explore Iseltwald & Giessbach is better if water features, waterfalls, and village visits excite you.
Think about your pace—both tours are suitable for most fitness levels thanks to electric bikes, but the second includes walking around waterfalls and hotels, so bring comfortable shoes. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months when demand is high.
If you’re on a tight schedule, the first tour is slightly shorter, but if you want a leisurely day with scenic water stops, the second tour fits perfectly. Consider also whether you prefer exploring historical ruins and panoramic viewpoints or relaxing lakeside villages with waterfalls.
Final Thoughts
Wilderswil offers a fantastic base for bike tours that showcase the best of the Bernese Oberland. Whether you prioritize a comprehensive ride past castles and rivers or want to enjoy lakeside villages and waterfalls, both options deliver memorable experiences. The Discover Interlaken – Lakes, Ruins & Views E-bike tour is ideal for a quick, varied adventure, while the Explore Iseltwald & Giessbach E-bike tour suits travelers craving water, waterfalls, and village charm.
To get the most out of your trip, consider your interests and fitness level. Both tours are well-reviewed and offer good value for the experience, so booking early ensures you won’t miss out. Whether you’re a casual rider or a water lover, these bike outings will give you a fresh perspective on Wilderswil and the surrounding lakes.
