Hotel Eden Spiez is a place where time seems to slow to a gentler pace. Anyone who has floated in the outdoor brine pool, gazing across Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps, will understand why guests return time and again.

When winter sets in outside, a world of discovery and enjoyment awaits at the St Beatus Caves. Explore the caves and museum, savour delicious food at the Stein & Sein restaurant and enjoy special winter events – making a trip to Lake Thun a memorable experience for couples, families and food lovers alike.

The Seegärtli in Spiez Bay combines a unique lakeside location with relaxed, warm hospitality. Since May 2022, Caroline Reber and Juri Seidel have been leading this long-established establishment into the next generation – together with a family that has shaped the Seegärtli for many years.

Spiez winegrowing is a vibrant interplay of nature, tradition, innovation and passion. Between the snow-covered peaks of the Bernese Alps and the sparkling waters of Lake Thun, wines mature that express their origins in every sip, carrying the region’s centuries-old wine culture into the future with renewed vitality.

Between golden vineyards, peaceful lakeside paths and snow-covered mountain stations, the Spiez region reveals its tranquil and indulgent side in autumn and winter. Six ideas lead you to festive lights, wine discoveries, boat trips and fondue experiences.

Anyone spending their holiday on beautiful Lake Thun will find a wealth of things to see and do in and around Spiez. Especially in winter, however, those staying a little longer will find it well worth taking a day trip or two to explore the wider region.

But unusual experiences like this are exactly what interest me, so I was keen to give it a try. On a cool but sunny winter’s day – perfect fondue weather – my partner and I finally set off. We met at 11 a.m. in Spiez Bay, where we first received a brief introduction. As the Sealander can be operated without a boating licence, we were shown the most important rules as well as the equipment on board, including a sink, refrigerator and speaker.