Interlaken: Small-Group Winter Kayak Tour on Lake Brienz

Planning a trip to Switzerland and looking for a way to see its stunning winter landscapes from a different perspective? This small-group winter kayak tour on Lake Brienz offers an intimate, peaceful way to enjoy the snowy scenery, guided by experienced instructors. Perfect for those who love nature, calming waters, and a bit of adventure, this tour promises memorable moments that linger long after you leave.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines personalized attention in small groups with the chance to witness one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes in its winter attire. Plus, the inclusion of a fully sealed expedition drysuit makes it accessible even for beginners and non-swimmers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the calm lake safely. One thing to keep in mind is that this activity might not be suited for those who dislike cold or have mobility issues, but for most adventurous travelers, it’s an ideal fit. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and well-guided outdoor experience, this tour could be a highlight of your Swiss journey.

Key Points

• Beautiful winter scenery: Glide across turquoise waters framed by snow-covered peaks and cliffs.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable instructors ensure safety and provide insights into the landscape.
• Suitable for beginners and non-swimmers: Fully sealed drysuits and patient guidance make it accessible.
• Small group size: Limited to six participants for a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Flexible weather: The landscape transforms beautifully whether it’s clear, cloudy, or even snowy, offering unique photo opportunities.
• Includes a cozy break: Hot tea and cookies allow for reflection and warming up amidst the silence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

Imagine paddling quietly on a mirror-like lake, with the only sounds being the soft splash of your paddle and the distant call of winter birds. That’s what this winter kayak adventure is all about. The experience is carefully designed to make you feel safe and comfortable, even if you’re new to kayaking or not confident in water. The drysuits with latex gaskets and neoprene neck protections keep you dry and warm, so you can focus on the stunning views instead of the cold.

The tour covers about 2 hours on the water, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends who want to share a peaceful outdoor activity. The guides are praised repeatedly for their friendliness, patience, and knowledge about the lake and its surrounding peaks. Many reviews highlight how guides even took photos and shared them afterward, adding a personal touch that enhances the whole experience.

What’s Included and How It Works

The meeting point is conveniently located opposite the bus stop Interlaken See, near the Hotel Oberländerhof. You can get there easily by bus, on foot, or by car, with paid parking available just a minute away. The tour runs from November through April, making it a perfect winter activity to escape the crowds and experience a quieter side of the Swiss Alps.

Once you arrive, you’ll be outfitted with a high-quality drysuit, boots, and gloves, and your guide will give you a detailed safety briefing and paddling instructions. No previous kayaking experience is necessary, and guides are known for their patient, thorough teaching. The small group size (no more than six) ensures everyone gets personalized attention, helping you find your rhythm and enjoy each moment on the water.

During the tour, there’s a designated stop for a hot tea and cookies break. This isn’t just about warming up — it’s a chance to relax, chat, and take in the landscape at a leisurely pace. Paddling past Ringgenberg Castle and around steep cliffs and snowy ridges, you’ll get unbeatable views of the surrounding mountains and lake depths beneath your kayak.

The Experience Itself: What You’ll See and Feel

Many reviewers have described the landscape as a winter fairy tale. On a clear day, the lake sparkles with vibrant colors, and the mountains seem to stretch endlessly into the sky. On cloudier or snowier days, the scenery takes on an almost mystical quality, with mist rising from the water and snow-blanketed peaks towering in the distance. The reflections on the still lake create perfect photo opportunities, and guides often help capture these moments.

The sensation of paddling across the calm, glassy surface is both calming and invigorating. For those who worry about the cold, the drysuits provide a surprising amount of warmth, especially when layered with thermal clothes underneath. Many reviews mention how well the suits work and how the experience remains comfortable despite the winter weather.

A common highlight is the peacefulness of the experience. The silence is profound, broken only by the gentle paddling and occasional bird calls. Several reviews mention how this activity is a wonderful way to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature. The guides often point out local sights, like Ringgenberg Castle, and share interesting facts about the region’s geology and wildlife, enriching the visual beauty with stories and knowledge.

The Guides: Why They Make a Difference

One of the reasons this tour stands out is the quality of its guides. Multiple reviews rave about guides like Andres, Chris, and Patrizia, emphasizing their helpfulness, friendliness, and passion for the area. Whether it’s patiently teaching a first-time kayaker, taking photos, or sharing local history, the guides enhance the experience with their professionalism and personal touch.

A reviewer from Saudi Arabia mentioned how Andres explained kayaking clearly and made the activity accessible even for someone initially very nervous. Others appreciated how guides took the time to ensure everyone was comfortable and safe, especially in tricky conditions like wind or rain.

The guides’ flexibility and attentiveness are especially valuable in winter, when weather can shift unexpectedly. Their focus on safety and comfort helps travelers relax and enjoy every moment.

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The Value for Money

At a price that incorporates gear, guiding, and a cozy break, many travelers find this kayaking tour to be great value. The small-group setting means more personalized attention, and the quality of equipment and guides is consistently praised. Considering the breathtaking views, the chance to learn new skills, and the opportunity to experience Lake Brienz in winter, the cost is often justified as an investment in a unique memory.

Several reviews highlighted how the experience is worth every penny, especially given the high standards of instruction and the photographs provided afterward. The inclusion of a break with hot tea and cookies, as well as the chance to take stunning photos, adds to the overall package. For those seeking a peaceful and scenic activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing or outdoor adventures, this tour offers good value.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This kayak tour is ideal for those who enjoy nature, tranquil waters, and gentle adventure. It suits beginners and non-swimmers thanks to the drysuits and patient guides. If you’re someone who values small group settings and personalized attention, you’ll appreciate the intimate vibe. It’s also a fantastic option for travelers looking to escape the crowds and experience a lesser-seen side of Switzerland’s winter landscape.

While not suited for children under 12 or those with significant mobility concerns, most active travelers, couples, or solo explorers will find this activity rewarding. The scenic surroundings and the calming effect of paddling on a quiet lake make it a memorable addition to any Swiss itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the fully sealed drysuits and safety equipment make it safe for non-swimmers. The guides are experienced and attentive, ensuring everyone feels secure on the water.

What should I bring?
Dress in warm clothing to wear underneath the drysuit (think thermal layers and thick socks), and bring a change of clothes in case you get sweaty or wet. Snacks, sunglasses, sunhat, and waterproof camera gear are also recommended.

How long is the tour?
The kayaking itself lasts about 2 hours, within the overall 3-hour experience that includes a break for hot tea and cookies.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the activity is for those aged 12 and above. It’s not suitable for children under 12 or for people over 264 lbs (120 kg).

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all conditions, and the landscape still transforms beautifully in snow, rain, or fog. The guides are experienced in handling changing weather, and the experience remains memorable.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You can reach the base by bus (a short 10-minute ride from Interlaken Ost), walk along the river and lake (about 35 minutes), or park nearby with paid parking just a minute away.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and unique way to explore Lake Brienz in winter, this small-group kayak tour ticks all the boxes. The emphasis on safety, personalized guidance, and breathtaking scenery makes it a compelling choice for travelers who appreciate outdoor adventures with a relaxed pace.

The consistently high reviews show how much people enjoy the combination of expert guides, tranquil waters, and stunning landscapes. Many mention how it’s a highlight of their Swiss trip, and the opportunity to take incredible photos and create lasting memories is an added bonus.

This experience is best suited for those who want to slow down, connect with nature, and see Switzerland from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the calm winter waters of Lake Brienz offer a serene escape into the heart of the Swiss Alps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Enjoy your Swiss adventure — paddling across winter’s quiet beauty is truly a one-of-a-kind way to see this stunning region.