Interlaken is famous for its dramatic mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and outdoor adventures. It’s a prime spot for paddling, whether you’re seeking a tranquil paddle in summer or a crisp winter outing. The Lake Brienz kayak tours truly stand out, offering spectacular water views, close encounters with historic castles, and a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful way. We especially like the Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz, which combines expert guiding with small-group intimacy—making it a personal, memorable experience.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of kayak experiences tailored to different seasons, skill levels, and interests. From the calm, sunny days of summer to the snow-kissed winter scenes, each tour offers something unique. If you’re after a quick escape on still waters, the beginner-friendly tours are perfect. For a more immersive experience, some include historic sights like Ringgenberg Castle just off the paddle.
Here’s a quick overview: we’ve included small-group daytime tours, winter kayak adventures, and guided excursions on Lake Brienz, all with high ratings and excellent reviews. Ready to paddle? Let’s dive into the details.
1. Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz
At number 1, this tour is a standout for its beautiful scenery and intimate group size. Priced at $155.08 per person and lasting about 3 hours, it offers a mix of guided paddling and sightseeing on Lake Brienz. The tour emphasizes the clear mountain waters, with highlights like the 12th-century Ringgenberg Castle visible from the lake. The small group limit of six ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace—ideal if you prefer a less crowded experience.
Guests consistently praise the “beautiful, informative” environment, noting the “awesome” guide Barry and the value of the included kayak rental and safety gear. Even on overcast days, the scenery shines through, making it a flexible choice. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with easy paddling and useful tips from the guides. Many reviewers mention the professional photos taken during the trip, adding a lasting memory.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic paddle with a personal touch, making it great for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking serenity and stunning views.
2. Winter Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz
Number 2 is a winter-specific experience that highlights the magic of Lake Brienz under snow and ice. For around $155, you get approximately three hours of guided kayaking with all gear and warm layers included. This tour offers a rare chance to see the lake’s snow-capped peaks reflected in the icy waters, creating a picture-perfect winter landscape.
What makes this tour special is the quiet, peaceful atmosphere of winter kayaking, combined with the ability to admire Ringgenberg Castle from the water. Reviewers mention the dry suits that keep paddlers warm and dry, even in the chill. Tours run with small groups, ensuring individual attention, and guides like Patrizia and Sean are noted for their friendliness and professionalism.
The emphasis here is on tranquility and scenic beauty, perfect if you enjoy colder weather adventures or want a peaceful alternative to summer crowds. It’s also suitable for beginners and non-swimmers due to the careful guidance.
Bottom line: This winter kayak trip offers a unique perspective of Lake Brienz, making it a perfect choice for those who want to experience the lake’s winter quiet in comfort.
3. Interlaken: Small-Group Winter Kayak Tour on Lake Brienz
At number 3, this tour provides a scenic winter kayaking experience with a focus on safety and comfort. Starting at the HIGHTIDE KAYAK SCHOOL, the 3-hour tour is designed for beginners and non-swimmers, with guides leading the way through the breathtaking winter landscape of Lake Brienz.
Participants are wrapped in fully sealed expedition drysuits, ensuring warmth and dryness while enjoying the serene silence of the snowy lake. The experience is praised for its relaxing pace, making it ideal for those wanting a peaceful paddle without strenuous effort. The itinerary includes scenic views, and the small group size allows for personalized guidance and plenty of opportunities to take photos.
Reviewers mention the helpfulness of guides like Manu, who shares relatable stories and detailed instructions. The tour’s focus on safety and comfort makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers, especially those new to kayaking or unsure about winter paddling.
Bottom line: For a peaceful, beginner-friendly winter paddle with stunning scenery and expert guidance, this tour fits the bill perfectly.
4. Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz
Number 4 on our list is a slightly more affordable option at $140 per person, also lasting about 3 hours. This guided tour emphasizes natural beauty and historical sights, starting from the HIGHTIDE KAYAK SCHOOL. You’ll paddle past towering cliffs, lush hillsides, and the iconic Ringgenberg Castle, offering plenty of opportunities to admire the dramatic landscape.
This tour is praised for its easy paddling and the inclusion of calming sounds of the water, which enhance the peaceful experience. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to manage safety while sharing interesting facts about the area. The route includes drifting along the River Lütschine and returning to the start point, making it a well-structured excursion.
Ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers, it balances scenery with manageable effort. The lower price point makes it attractive for travelers looking to get their feet wet without overcommitting.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value, combining scenic paddling with historical sights, suitable for those wanting a relaxed, well-guided experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lake Kayaking Experience
When selecting a kayaking tour in Interlaken, consider your budget, experience level, and season. For instance, if you want a winter adventure with warm gear and a focus on peaceful scenery, the Winter Kayak Tour of Lake Brienz is a top pick. If summer is more your style, the Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz is perfect for its relaxed pace and beautiful vistas.
For beginners or those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the Interlaken Winter Kayak Tour offers a safe, guided introduction. Budget travelers may prefer the lower-priced tour, which still provides memorable scenery.
Regardless of your choice, booking early is wise—these tours tend to fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons. Think about what scenery and season excite you most and match your skill level with the tour description for the best experience.
In summary, Interlaken’s canoe and kayak experiences cover all seasons and skill levels, from tranquil winter paddles to lively daytime explorations. Whether you prefer a small-group guided adventure or a solo trip on pristine waters, the options here are worth exploring. For scenic beauty and a peaceful float, the Kayak Tour of Lake Brienz in summer or winter offers a generous taste of the Swiss Alps. For a beginner-friendly, scenic winter outing, the Small-Group Winter Kayak Tour is hard to beat. Whichever you choose, booking early guarantees you’ll get the timing and experience you’re after.
