Lake Brienz Kayaking: Turquoise Waters & Alpine Views
Paddle turquoise water ringed by cliffs, a castle, and the Alps on every side
Guided kayaking on Lake Brienz near Interlaken puts you on the water for around two hours, paddling the north shore past sunbaked cliffs, a 12th-century castle above Ringgenberg, and quiet beaches. The tour includes kayak, paddles, an experienced guide, small-group setup (maximum six people), and a digital photo package. No experience needed. First-timers and non-swimmers are welcome.
Options for this experience
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What’s included
- Kayak and paddles.
- experienced guide in English or German.
- small-group tour with a maximum of six people.
- digital photo package of the day.
Times
Next departure: 1 May 2027
1 departing soon ›Before you book
Operated by Hightide Kayak School GmbH
Prices and times updated today
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The experience
You launch from Hightide's base in Bönigen and paddle across water so turquoise it looks unreal, with the Bernese Oberland filling the horizon. The route stays relaxed. The guide keeps the pace unhurried with stops for photos, short rests, and just sitting with the view. Around two hours on the water means you're not fighting fatigue. You're actually taking it in. Sunbaked cliffs rise straight from the shoreline, a 12th-century castle perches above Ringgenberg, and small beaches break up the rock. The kind of landscape that photographs well but photographs nothing like being in it.
The whole session runs three hours from check-in. You'll need to bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, waterproof footwear, sunglasses, sun hat and sunscreen. The operator provides the kayak, paddles and instruction. Groups stay small, never more than six, so the guide can actually see you and adjust the pace if someone needs it. Non-swimmers are welcome. You don't need previous kayaking experience, but you do need to be able to handle a kayak on your own. The guide speaks English or German and will cover what you need to know before you push off.
Morning tours start at 9:15am or 9:20am depending on the date; afternoon options run at 1:15pm or 1:20pm; evening tours depart at 5:15pm. The evening run follows the same route but the lake goes glassy and the sun drops behind the hills. It's become a favourite for people looking for a calm end to the day. If three hours feels like too much, there's also a 1.5-hour taster option. Check in five minutes before your start time.
Is this one for you?Book a morning or afternoon departure if you want the full route and the light to hold steady. The evening tour covers the same water but the glassy surface and dropping sun suit someone looking for a quieter, slower end to the day. Groups stay under six, so the guide can adjust the pace and stops to what the group actually needs.
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Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English and German.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.
Can I kayak Lake Brienz if I've never paddled before?
No experience is required. The guide provides instruction and the tour is designed for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned paddlers. Non-swimmers are welcome too, as long as you're comfortable handling a kayak on your own.
What does the route on Lake Brienz actually show you?
The north shore route passes sunbaked cliffs that rise straight from the water, a 12th-century castle perched above the village of Ringgenberg, and quiet beaches tucked between the rock. The Alps frame the whole view. You spend around two hours paddling, with stops built in for photos and rest.
What's included in the kayaking tour price?
The kayak, paddles, guide, small-group setup, and a digital photo package are all included. You bring your own swimsuit, change of clothes, waterproof footwear, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water and snacks.
How long is the whole session, and how much time is actually on the water?
The session lasts three hours total. Around two of those hours are spent paddling on the lake. The rest covers check-in, instruction and any breaks on shore.
What time do the tours depart, and is there an evening option?
Morning tours leave at 9:15am or 9:20am; afternoon tours at 1:15pm or 1:20pm; evening tours at 5:15pm. The evening run follows the same route but the lake and light are different. It's become popular for a calm end to the day.
What should I bring, and what do I need to know about fitness?
Bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, waterproof footwear, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water and snacks. You need at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour is not recommended for people with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or significant back, neck, joint or muscular problems. Children must be at least 12 years old.
Lake Brienz Kayaking: Turquoise Waters & Alpine Views
3h · EN · DE
from US$ 156 per person
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