From Interlaken: Family Rafting

If you’re looking for a fun, safe way to introduce your kids to the outdoors in Switzerland, the Family Rafting trip on the Lütschine could be just the ticket. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but from what we see and hear, it’s a solid choice for families who want a taste of river adventure without the adrenaline rush of whitewater rapids. It’s also a great way to enjoy some of the beautiful scenery around Interlaken, with the added treat of ending the day with a swim in Lake Brienz.

What really catches our eye about this experience is its balance of safety and fun. The tour is designed to be accessible for children from 8 years old and up, with guides who are clearly experienced and friendly. Plus, the scenic setting of the turquoise Lake Brienz provides a stunning backdrop that makes the whole trip feel special. The only thing to consider? This isn’t a high-octane whitewater adventure, so if you’re after a thrill, this might not be the right fit. But for families, or travelers seeking a relaxed river outing with memorable views, it hits the right notes.

This tour seems best suited for families with kids, first-time river paddlers, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Switzerland’s river landscapes. It’s quick, friendly, and offers the chance to cool off with a swim—what’s not to like?

Key Points

• Suitable for children from 8 years old with safety as a priority.
• Approximately 45 minutes of paddling on calm river waves.
• Ends with a swim in the beautiful Lake Brienz.
• Expert guides ensure safety and fun, often speaking English and German.
• Short total duration of about 3 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• All equipment provided, just bring swimwear and a towel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

This tour kicks off at the New OUTDOOR Base in Wilderswil, just five minutes from Interlaken. The initial meet-and-greet includes a brief safety talk and instructions—no surprises there, just enough prep to feel comfortable. You’ll then get suited up with wetsuits, boots, life vests, and helmets. This equipment quality is reassuring, especially for parents watching their kids.

Next, a quick five-minute drive takes you to the river’s start point, where the real fun begins. Your guide will lead the group onto the lower Lütschine River, which is known for its smaller waves—perfectly suited for younger paddlers. The 45-minute paddle is described as fun and safe, with gentle waves that provide just enough movement to keep everyone engaged without risking whitewater chaos.

Throughout the paddling, the guides are well-trained and speak both English and German, making communication clear and friendly. The emphasis is on safety, but also on enjoyment, with guides often praised for their knowledge and approachable manner. We loved the way reviews highlight guides who make everyone feel secure, even if they’re new to rafting.

The Scenic Finish and Lake Brienz

The highlight of this trip is arriving at Lake Brienz, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters. After paddling, you’ll have the chance to jump into the lake for a refreshing swim—an ideal way to cool off and soak in the spectacular surroundings. This part of the experience is often called the “perfect ending” and is a major reason families return year after year.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, briefing, paddling, and the lake swim. The actual rafting part is just 45 minutes, so it’s a manageable outing even for younger kids or those with a shorter attention span.

You’ll want to wear swimwear and bring a towel, as well as cash for any small expenses or extras. The guides provide all necessary gear, but cameras and large bags are not allowed, probably for safety reasons and to avoid water damage.

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Pricing and Value

While the cost isn’t explicitly listed here, consider the value you’re getting: a guided river trip with all equipment included, plus the memorable experience of swimming in Lake Brienz. For families or travelers wanting a relaxed introduction to river paddling with a scenic payoff, it’s likely a worthwhile way to spend part of your day.

What Reviewers Say

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Elizabeth from the US says, “Great trip! Highly recommend,” while Jessica raves about how the guides made everyone feel safe and comfortable, calling it “super fun.” Sab from France appreciated that the guide spoke French, adding a personal touch for Francophone travelers.

Jimmy from the US simply notes, “Everything about this activity was terrific,” which speaks to the overall satisfaction. Reviewers love the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides, making it clear that this experience delivers on its promises.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health issues like back problems, mobility impairments, or heart conditions. The maximum weight is 125kg (275 lbs), which is good to know if you’re on the larger side.

Also, the activity doesn’t allow pets, cameras, or large luggage, so plan accordingly. If you’re hoping for a high-adrenaline whitewater experience, you’ll need to look elsewhere—this is more about gentle paddling and scenic enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip shines for families wanting a safe and engaging introduction to river paddling, especially with kids over 8. It’s also ideal for beginners or anyone eager to enjoy a leisurely paddle in a beautiful setting without the risks of whitewater. If you’re traveling with friends or as a couple and love scenic views, it’s still a charming way to spend part of your day.

If your main goal is adventure and thrills, look for more intense whitewater options. But if you value safety, scenery, and a relaxed pace, this rafting trip hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

The Family Rafting trip on the Lütschine offers a laid-back, scenic way to enjoy Switzerland’s natural beauty. Its combination of gentle river paddling, expert guides, and the chance to swim in Lake Brienz makes it a solid choice for families, first-timers, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor activity. It’s not overly long or complicated, which makes it a great half-day activity that fits well into a broader Swiss itinerary.

Most importantly, the tour delivers a memorable experience with consistent positive reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. If you’re looking for a safe, scenic, and fun introduction to river activities, this one’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s fun and safe for kids from 8 years old. The guides are experienced and prioritize safety, making it a good choice for families.

How long does the rafting last?
The actual paddling on the river is about 45 minutes, but the entire experience—including briefing, equipment, and the lake swim—takes around 3 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and cash for any small expenses. All necessary gear like wetsuits, boots, life vests, and helmets are provided.

Can I record the experience with a camera?
No, cameras and large bags are not allowed during the rafting for safety reasons.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, the maximum weight is 125 kg (275 lbs), which helps ensure safety for all participants.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, with some reviews noting guides who speak French as well.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic outing that’s perfect for families or river newbies, this Swiss rafting trip offers both safety and stunning views in a manageable package. It’s a chance to enjoy nature, learn a bit about paddling, and cool off in a breathtaking lake—all with friendly guides leading the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: