Lake Thun, Alpine lake in Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
Lake Thun is an alpine lake in the Bernese Oberland with emerald-colored water surrounded by steep mountain slopes that stretch between Interlaken and the town of Thun. Forested hillsides line the shores, and medieval castles rise from the landscape at several points along the water's edge.
The lake took its present form after separating from Lake Brienz in the 10th century, when both water bodies were originally connected and known together as Wendelsee. This geological shift shaped the landscape and the relationships between the communities that surround it today.
The lake takes its name from the town of Thun at its outlet, which has shaped the region for centuries. Today people use these waters for sailing, swimming, and boating, making it a natural part of daily life for locals and visitors alike.
The lake is easy to reach by boat since passenger ferries connect the main locations around the water and allow travelers to move freely between Interlaken and the town of Thun. Visit during the warmer months when the water and weather are pleasant and more activities become available.
The lake holds a hidden military secret, as the Swiss government submerged thousands of tons of unused war ammunition in its depths between 1940 and 1964. This unusual history reveals how the water once played a concealed role in national security during and after wartime.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
