The medieval castle high above the town of Thun is an impressive eye-catcher at the entrance to the Bernese Oberland region. The four white towers can be seen from afar on the castle hill. A beautiful example of medieval architecture, it is well worth a visit if you are ever in the region. This illustrious castle was built by the Dukes of Zähringen and is now a nationally important cultural heritage site. This almost completely preserved symbol of power is home to the Knights’ Hall, one of the few surviving halls of its kind from the Middle Ages. Visit the Thun Castle Museum or enjoy culinary delights in the Schlossberg Restaurant and Hotel.
When I look at the castle, I am always amazed at how perfect the whole setting is. A castle on a hill that rises out of the old town and the whole thing in front of the Bernese Alps and lake.
We can recommend a visit to anyone who wants to immerse themselves in history or simply enjoy the wonderful view over the town and the mountain panorama.
The castle and castle hill in Thun
The town of Thun lies halfway between Bern and Interlaken on the shores of the lake that bears its name. The town center and old town in particular exude an enchanting charm. The cobbled streets and narrow alleyways along the River Aare all contribute to its appeal.
Rising majestically on the Schlossberg high above the old town is one of the town’s unmistakable landmarks – the square Romanesque donjon of Thun Castle with its characteristic four corner towers, which dates back to 1196 and the time of Count Berchtold V of Zähringen. The Zähringen family played a significant role in Swiss and southern German history in the 12th and 13th centuries and made formative contributions to various towns, including Bern, Fribourg, Fribourg, Murten and, of course, Thun.
Within the castle walls is a small inner courtyard, which provides access to the hotel and museum. The white walls of the castle rise high into the sky and have been an impressive sight for centuries. These imposing walls, which are up to 4 meters thick, are flanked on all sides by the surrounding buildings and structures that surround the castle.
For a few years now, there has been a narrow path that you can walk around behind the castle.
The castle is a large complex and there is a lot to learn about its history, which dates back to the Middle Ages, so if you are interested in history, you can easily spend a few hours here.
The four towers can be climbed if you’re feeling particularly energetic. We got a little out of breath climbing the stairs ourselves, but at the top you are rewarded with a far-reaching view over the city and the Bernese Alps.
As you leave the castle gate, you can walk down the cobbled street that slopes gently down to Thun Town Church. A wonderful view of Lake Thun and the Alps awaits you there.
In general, we can recommend that you explore the various corners of the Schlossberg. For me, this is one of my favorite places in the city and I just love walking through the little paths and enjoying the different views.
A little insider tip from us. The Schlossberg can be reached from various sides via stairs. There is also access to the Schlossberg parking lot on Obere Hauptgasse, where the elevator takes you right to the top near the castle.
You might also like the following article:
Castle Museum
Thun Castle, built in 1196, is undoubtedly a treasure trove of history. In addition to its historical collection, which covers the medieval period and the famous “Knights’ Hall” from the late Middle Ages, the associated museum offers numerous temporary exhibitions.
The castle is open all year round, regardless of the weather, and the exhibitions in the castle museum are interesting for people of all ages. Visitors can use audio guides in German, English, French, Italian and Chinese to learn about the castle’s colorful history or take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about this Swiss heritage site.
To explore the inside of the castle walls and visit the different floors, you have to climb narrow spiral staircases that lead to the 6 levels until you reach the upper rooms under the roof. From there, there are impressive views of the city, the surrounding valley and the Alps.
A visit to the museum can easily be combined with dinner in the Schlossberg restaurant and hotel.
Opening hours and admission price
| April to October | Every day 10 am – 5 pm |
| November to January | Every Sunday 1 pm – 4 pm |
| 25. December to early January | Every day 1 pm – 4 pm |
| February to March | Every day 1 pm – 4 pm |
| Adult | CHF 10.- (Castle Museum) |
| Children up to 16 years: | CHF 3.- |
| Panorama Card/guest card | CHF 8.- |
| Family card(2 adults 2 children): | CHF 20.- |
Other castles in the Thun region
But Thun Castle is not the only impressive castle in the region around Lake Thun. There are many more historic castles waiting to be explored. Let’s take a look at some of these fascinating castles that are rich in history and charm.
Schadau Castle and the park
The majestic Schadau Castle, also located in Thun on the shores of the lake, is a testament to Swiss history and architecture.
If you venture inside its enchanting walls, a journey through time awaits you. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and admire the opulent interiors with intricate woodwork and elegant furniture.
The expansive Schadaupark offers panoramic views of the lake and invites visitors to stroll along the manicured paths.
It is also a popular place to lie in the sun and swim in the lake in summer. Something I always like to do when I’m in Thun.
As a little bonus, you can find the Wocher Panorama in Schadaupark. An impressive 360-degree painting where you can discover the historic cityscape of Thun.
Spiez Castle
Spiez Castle, situated on the shores of Lake Thun, is a fascinating medieval fortress. As you approach, the imposing silhouette against the backdrop of majestic mountains will amaze you.
Upon entering, you will be transported back in time with its well-preserved architecture and rich history. Explore the castle’s labyrinthine corridors, adorned with ancient carpets and intricate woodwork.
Don’t miss a visit to its charming chapel or stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which offer breathtaking views of Lake Thun.
It is not for nothing that the people of Spiez describe their bay as the most beautiful in the whole of Europe.
Hünegg Castle
A 5-minute drive along the lake takes you to Hünegg Castle, which was built at the end of the 19th century in the style of the French castles of the Loire Valley.
Hünegg Castle, the magnificent residence of the Prussian Baron Albert von Parpart and his wife Adelheid von Bonstetten, is nestled on the shores of Lake Thun in the middle of a fairytale park with impressive trees.
The lavishly decorated Art Nouveau interior has remained unchanged since 1900 and therefore offers an insight into the life of aristocrats in times gone by.
Surrounded by beautiful large parkland, the castle sits enthroned above Lake Thun, looking proudly towards the Alps.
Oberhofen Castle on Lake Thun
If you take a boat trip on Lake Thun, you will automatically pass what is probably the most photographed castle on the lake. The castle is located directly on the Oberhofen landing stage and, with its tower standing in the water, conveys a fairy-tale image.
The romantic castle complex with its keep tower, which was built around 1200, has had many owners in its long history. In the castle museum, you can learn more about its history, get to know the former owners and visit the chapel and the oriental smoking room.
Outside, be sure to take a stroll through the formal castle gardens with flowerbeds, covered arcades and lake views. If time permits, stroll to the adjacent 2.5-hectare landscaped park next to the castle.
There is a restaurant in a modern extension next to the castle, which delights with culinary highlights. We also like to visit Pier 17 in the immediate vicinity for a local snack and a café in the sun.
You might also like the following article:
Final thoughts
The region around Lake Thun in Switzerland is rich in historic castles and fortresses, each with a fascinating history and breathtaking charm.
From the majestic Thun Castle and the enchanting Schadau Castle to the romantic Oberhofen Castle and the unique Hünegg Castle, there is much to discover. These cultural treasures are not only architectural masterpieces, but also offer insights into the past and views of the surrounding countryside.
For this reason, we can recommend a visit to Thun Castle to all history lovers.
