Interlaken carries the title "adventure sports capital" of Switzerland, and it's well earned thanks to its unique position between two mountains and two lakes, offering ideal terrain for both airborne and land-based sports.
Paragliding: the signature experience. Paragliding flights mainly launch from the summit of Beatenberg, overlooking both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and the valley where Interlaken sits. A standard morning tandem flight with a licensed guide runs CHF 170–180, while sunset packages with photo and video coverage reach about CHF 260. The actual flight time is 10–20 minutes, with launch groups of up to 10 people and a mandatory safety briefing before takeoff. No prior experience is needed, though minimum weight and age requirements vary by operator, so it's worth confirming in advance whether a flight suits children or older travelers.
The Hardergrat: one of Switzerland's finest ridge hikes. For serious hikers, the Hardergrat trail, running along a narrow mountain ridge from Harder Kulm toward a farther range, is one of the Alps' most thrilling routes, with continuous views of both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz at once. The trail demands good fitness and sure footing and isn't suited to beginners or those uneasy with heights, given how narrow the path becomes in places. A lighter alternative is hiking up to Harder Kulm on foot (a climb of about 735 meters) instead of the funicular — a moderately difficult route taking two to three hours.
Additional sports. The region is also known for canyon swings and ziplines across valleys on steel cables, along with canyoning through rocky water gorges, and skydiving above the mountain-ringed valley — one of the most spectacular freefall experiences in the world thanks to the surrounding scenery.
Safety and booking tips. Book ahead during the June–September peak season, since flights are sometimes cancelled at short notice due to wind or low cloud, so it's wise to leave a buffer day in your itinerary. Always choose officially licensed operators and confirm insurance is included in the price. Those wanting a lighter taste of it all can simply watch paragliders land on Höhematte meadow in the town center — a free, thrilling sight for everyone.
Whether you choose to fly through the air or walk along a mountain ridge, Interlaken delivers an unforgettable adventure amid some of the finest natural scenery on Earth.
