winter excursions on lake thun
Light, Wine and Fondue
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.
Winter on Lake Thun
The colder months bring a special atmosphere to Lake Thun. The light becomes softer, the lake reflects the mountains, and nature quietly begins its seasonal transition in the vineyards. In Spiez, these landscapes are all within easy reach: from the railway station, walking routes lead into the vineyards or down to the bay. Those wishing to extend their excursion can also reach Aeschi, the Stockhorn and the Niederhorn by PostBus and mountain railway. The selection combines small local experiences with excursions into the mountains. One route follows the Christmas story, while another leads along the lakeshore. There is also the vineyard discovery trail, a winter boat trip and two fondue experiences – one in the snow and one on the lake. Before setting off, it is worth checking the latest timetables, opening hours and trail conditions. That way, a simple idea becomes a relaxing, well-planned day out.
Six Excursion Ideas
Wiehnachtswäg Aeschi: Six Scenes, One StoryAlong the Wiehnachtswäg in Aeschi, six lovingly designed stations tell the Christmas story. Allow around 60 minutes for the walk. From 5 pm onwards, lanterns and illuminated scenes guide the way. Bringing your own torch makes the subtly marked route even easier to follow. On selected days, the small refreshment hut serves hot drinks and snacks. PostBus line 62 runs from Spiez to Aeschi b. Spiez, Wachthubel. From there, it is around 150 metres in the direction of Aeschiried.
Good to know: Seasonal dates and opening hours for the refreshment hut can be found at wiehnachtswaeg.ch. Please check the latest PostBus connections before travelling.
Spiez–Faulensee Lakeside Path: Along the Water’s Edge
A 2.5-kilometre easy lakeside path runs between the Spiez outdoor and lakeside swimming pools and the Faulensee boat landing. The walk takes around 45 minutes each way and offers uninterrupted views of Lake Thun and the snow-covered mountains along the way. Tunnels of trees, sculptures, benches and a barbecue area add variety to the walk. In winter, sturdy footwear is recommended, and it is worth checking current conditions beforehand, as the path is left in its natural state.
Good to know: The route starts at the Spiez outdoor and lakeside swimming pools and ends at the Faulensee boat landing. The path is accessible all year round.
Spiez Vineyard: Discover Wine in the Winter Light
The discovery trail begins at the lower vineyard hut, around 200 metres from the winegrowers’ cooperative shop. Twelve information panels guide visitors through the winegrowing year. Short films and six interactive stations offer a multisensory insight into the world of vines and wine. The circular trail takes around an hour, is free of charge and is open all year round. In autumn, the vines glow in warm colours, while in winter the clean lines of the vines and views of the castle, bay and Niesen take centre stage.
Good to know: The Spiez vineyard is one of the highest wine-growing areas north of the Alps.
Fondue Boat on Lake Thun: Lights from the Water
A winter evening on Lake Thun combines the lights along the shore with a cosy cheese fondue. The BLS Fondue Boat departs from Thun on Saturdays from 14 November to 19 December 2026, setting off at 7.10 pm. It is scheduled to return to Thun at 9.20 pm. The menu features classic fondue as well as versions with tomato pesto or porcini mushrooms.
Good to know: Reservations and tickets are available at bls-schiff.ch. Under the current offer, adults pay CHF 75 and children aged 6 to 11 pay CHF 37.50. The GA Travelcard, Half Fare Travelcard, Lake Pass, Junior Travelcard and Children’s Co-Travelcard are not valid for this special offer. Subject to change.
Stockhorn Igloo: Fondue at Hinterstockensee
From Erlenbach im Simmental, the Stockhorn cableway takes you to the Chrindi mid-station. From there, the igloo at Hinterstockensee is around a 10- to 15-minute walk away, with an ascent of approximately 50 metres. The fondue experience includes the cableway journey, hot punch or mulled wine, a small aperitif, cheese fondue and dessert. During the 2026/27 season, fondue evenings take place on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, as well as early on Sunday evenings, from 11 December 2026 to 21 March 2027. When ice conditions permit, visitors can also enjoy ice skating and ice fishing beside the igloo.
Good to know: Bring warm clothing and suitable winter footwear. Ice skating and ice fishing depend on the official condition of the lake. Dogs are not permitted on fondue evenings.
Niederhorn: Tobogganing Against a Mountain Backdrop
From Beatenbucht or Beatenberg, the funicular and group gondola lift take you up to the Niederhorn. From there, a varied three-kilometre toboggan run leads from the mountain station to the Vorsass mid-station. Bends, exhilarating descents and flatter sections alternate along the route. The run is moderately difficult and, with appropriate supervision, is also suitable for families. Wooden sledges can be hired at the mountain station. Those wishing to extend their day on foot can take the winter hiking trail via Hohwald to Waldegg. On some sections, the walking time can be shortened by using a sledge.
Good to know: A day pass is ideal for multiple runs. The toboggan run and winter hiking trails are subject to snow and weather conditions and operating status.
A December Highlight
Chlouse-Märit Spiez
Saturday, 5 December 2026, 2–8 pm
During the Chlouse-Märit, Oberlandstrasse between Lötschbergplatz and the Kronen roundabout is transformed into a festive gathering place in the run-up to Christmas. More than 100 market stalls offer gift ideas, handmade goods and regional specialities. Visitors can also enjoy mulled wine, bratwurst, Christmas treats, children’s activities and live music.
