In the western part of the Bernese Oberland region is a traditional Swiss village Adelboden. This relaxed resort amidst mountainous scenery and quiet beauty is characterized by its village atmosphere. Those who long for fresh mountain air and enjoy long hikes in peaceful countryside will find what they are looking for here. In winter, this idyllic chalet village transforms into a winter sports paradise. Here are a few of our favorite activities in Adelboden for the summer and winter, which will make your stay an unforgettable experience.
About Adelboden
Adelboden is one of those classic destinations that have been attracting tourists for centuries. No wonder, because the small alpine village with traditional chalet character, an attractive and cozy destination. Surrounded by natural beauty which is ideally accessible by various mountain railroads, traditional mountain farms with alpine huts can be found everywhere, where with a little luck you can watch and taste the cheese production.
Family-friendly and with a growing number of wellness oases, Adelboden offers a wide range of activities and is one of the most diverse vacation destinations in the Bernese Oberland, both in summer and winter.
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Things to do in Adelboden, Winter
Skiing the Adelboden-Lenk Area
When talking about Adelboden in winter, the experience on the slopes is clearly in the foreground and rightly so. Rapid descents amid breathtaking mountain scenery, surrounded by glistening powder snow, the Adelboden-Lenk ski area is a true winter paradise. A network of 210 kilometers of slopes spread over three valleys and accessed by 72 efficient transport systems, there is something for everyone here. Adelboden is also a tempting destination for the best skiers in the world. Every year in January the legendary Ski World Cup takes place on the Chuenisbärgli, a spectacle for both skiers and spectators.
Other winter activities
But not only skiers get their money’s worth in Adelboden. The area is also ideal for winter hikers, cross-country skiers, snowshoe hikers and for sledding. Numerous romantic winter hiking trails and cross-country ski trails invite you to explore the alpine winter landscape. Those who are resistant to the cold have the possibility to build an igloo and spend the night in it or enjoy a delicious fondue.
Enjoy a Fondue
A fondue is not only the perfect way to end the day after building an igloo, but in winter (or summer) it is always a great way to end an eventful day. If you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on your taste in music), the rustic atmosphere will be punctuated by the local yodeling group or a little serenade on the accordion.
Things to do in Adelboden, Summer
Hike one of the many trails
In summer, the mountain landscape invites you to descend and consciously enjoy. The mountains around Adelboden and 300 km, with yellow signs, with name and distance well marked hiking trails invite you to unforgettable excursions. Traditional mountain farms with alpine huts and cheese dairies characterize the landscape. Look for a farmhouse with local alpine cheese for sale on its table. By depositing money, you can buy fresh cheese there. After a strenuous hike, enjoying it in the area where it was made makes this a culinary highlight.
The choice of beautiful hikes in the Adelboden region is extremely varied. In the office of the Tourist Center in the village you will find practical hiking maps and the experienced staff will be happy to show you where to find the most beautiful hiking trails.
A little bonus for hotel guests staying in Adelboden during the summer months is the free Mountain Pass.
Rent a Trottinette
For all those who are looking for a fun experience, renting a scooter is just the thing. A scooter is more or less a more stable scooter without a motor. With this you can enjoy adventurous descents on the 45 km network, made of trails specially designed for the scooter. Also for the mountain bikers and cyclists there are various possibilities for beautiful rides in the area of Adelboden.
Go for a swim or wellness
Those who like to swim surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery will find just that at the local swimming pool Gruebi. This is already a proud 90 years old but with the geometric shapes and bright colors of the architect Beda Hefti, even today it is fascinating and futuristic. The bath has a 50 meter pool, children’s pool, diving tower, restaurant, as well as beach volleyball court and playground.
If the hustle and bustle of a public pool is too much for you, you can find peace and relaxation in one of the many wellness facilities in Adelboden.
Sightsee the surrounding natural beauty
In the immediate vicinity of Adelboden there are two spectacular natural sights to be discovered:
- The two Engstligen waterfalls are over 600 meters high and are among the most popular destinations in Adelboden.
- The Choleren Gorge also offers natural spectacle. Here the foaming and tumbling waters of the Tschentenbach make their way through the deep rock gullies. From Adelboden you can reach the gorge within an hour on foot or in 10 minutes by car. From below, you climb up the gorge via sturdy metal footbridges and bridges and experience the impressive, thundering masses of water at close quarters.
Day Trips from Adelboden
By means of the very good public transport or by car, you can reach from Adelboden within a very short time some very worthwhile excursion destinations:
- Kandersteg and Lake Oeschinen are always worth a visit. The lake is embedded in an impressive scenery and offers a variety of hiking possibilities and activities.
- The small Blausee, for many one of the most beautiful lakes in the whole Bernese Oberland.
- On Lake Thun, Spiez, Interlaken and Thun are all beautiful places to visit.
Where to stay in Adelboden
In Adelboden there is a variety of possible accommodations. From the 5-star luxury hotel to the vacation apartment in the chalet, there is something for every taste and budget.
