Famous places in Switzerland like the Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, or Matterhorn all tend to overshadow Oeschinensee Lake. However, this hidden gem is certainly worth visiting.

The Oeschinensee is located in the Bernese Oberland. The mountain lake is among the most stunning lakes in Switzerland, primarily because of its crystal-clear turquoise waters and picturesque waters.

While visiting Lake Oeschinen, you might be considering where to stay for the night. Should you go to a hotel or camp right by the water? Although camping directly on the lake under the stars would certainly be an incomparable experience, it is unfortunately not possible and in this article we will explain why. Instead, a nearby hotel offers an overnight stay that is at least as memorable and even more comfortable. 

Oeschinensee is a sight to see, a must-visit location if you enjoy day trips. You will also enjoy an overnight stay at the lake to take in the peaceful surroundings. 

One of the most beautiful alpine Lakes - Oeschinensee

Staying by Lake Oeschinen

Oeschinensee Lake is a former hidden gem in Switzerland, which is slowly becoming much more popular.

Where day trips during the travel season (from June to September) offer several daytime activities, an overnight stay can be equally enjoyable. Visitors pull into the valley, returning after fishing, hiking, etc.

As such, Oeschinensee becomes much quieter and more peaceful at night. Letting you explore the starry night skies above the Oeschinensee or resting in your comfy hotel room.

Berghotel Oeschinensee

Berghotel Oeschinensee is a family-owned accommodation option for travelers looking to spend a night or two amidst nature. Built-in 1892, it is run by the fifth generation of the Wandfluh family.

Aerial view of the Berghotel Oeschinensee

The hotel boasts a large panoramic terrace and 30-bed dormitory property. Berghotel rooms are made of wood to provide visitors with an exceptionally relaxing experience. They are simple and non-fancy yet spacious enough to accommodate travel groups and solo travelers.

Room at Berghotel Oeschinensee

Berghotel is also famous for its delicious food. The restaurant uses healthy and sustainable foods such as lamb from their organic farm in Kandersteg and home-baked bread.

You can stay overnight at Berghotel Oeschinensee unless you’re traveling during the off-season. The friendly and quick hotel staff look forward to visitors in the summers. Overnight stays for groups and individuals are possible from mid-May to October.

Hotel window view at Lake Oeschinen

Offering comfortable accommodation and delicious food, Berghotel Oeschinensee is worth considering.

Berghaus Arva

Berghaus Arva is another excellent mountain-house option at Oeschinensee Lake. As the lake starts to quiet down the evening, you can rest by the lake amidst fresh mountain air.

Oeschinensee hotel: Berghaus Arva

The hotel offers single, double, and multi-bed rooms. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends or family, you can count on this hotel to make your overnight stay memorable. The chalet has six rooms, whereas groups can stay in the four rooms in the mountain house.

Double bed room in Berghaus Arva at Oeschinensee

While this hotel provides comfort, it does not take away how real your trip is. You will get a hot water bottle and blanket to enjoy the chilly and cool weather. 

Oeschinensee Camping

Oeschinensee has been a World Heritage Site since 2007 with a judicial ban on camping to protect nature and wildlife. Oeschinensee rangers patrol the lake daily to inform visitors about the camping ban. The ranger commands taking down tents if they find any. 

Campsite “Rendez-Vous” in Kandersteg

Since Oeschinensee Lake and areas in its vicinity are wildlife reserves and plant protection sites, people cannot camp there. Setting up your tent can involve legal repercussions.

The Campsite "Rendez-Vous" in Kandersteg

However, a campground called “Rendez-Vous” in the pleasant village of Kandersteg allows campers to set tents. It is a terraced campsite with scenic views of the massive surrounding mountains. You will find Rendez Vous near the valley station (cable-car station). 

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Lake Oeschinen in Winter

Summary

When you’re in a place as beautiful as Oeschinensee, leaving is the hardest part. Oeschinensee Lake is worth an overnight stay, especially since you get to take in the clean mountain air. You will find two hotels at the lake: Berghotel Oeschinensee and Berghaus Arva. Rendez-Vous is a legal camping site near the cable car valley station.