We will be staying in Kandersteg in August for two nights. We have a Swiss Rail Pass. Does anyone know if the lift up to Lake Oeschinensee is covered under the Swiss Rail Pass. Also, appreciate any information about hking back down to Kandersteg or any other hikes in the area that are worthwhile. Thanks.
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Seattle, WA
17432 posts
Love Oeschinensee! We have stayed up there (at Hotel Oeschinensee) a number of times, but not since the old chairlift was replaced with a modern gondola. That lift should be covered at 50% with a Swiss pass, but not fully covered. There are some great hikes up at the lake, if you are up for some elevation gain. My favorite is the hike up to Freundenhütte, on a trail carved out of the cliff. It is spectacular as you seem to look straight down onto th elake, but the path is wide enough to feel secure, and has a cable to hold for security ht want it. Freundenhütte is up to the right as you stand facing the lake. Or you could go up to Blumlisalphütte which is at the pass to your left (Hohtürli). This is a longer and more difficult hike, but no ledges involved. From the pass you look down into the next valley, the Kiental. Or just walk along the lake on the sculpture path (wooden sculptures dot the area) and continue on to th ewaterfall, or beyond to the farm where you can buy refreshments. (But for refreshment nothing can beat icecream treats on the deck at Hotel Oeschinensee). The walk back down, if you choose not to ride the lift back, is fairly steep but you get nice views of the surrounding area. Another thing we love to do there is walk or ride bikes into the Gasterntal, the next valley over from Kndersteg. The valley is undeveloped apart from a few farms and rustic inns, and traffic on th eroad is restricted, so it makes great biking. The way in is on a narrow road carved into rock above a gorge, with cascading water. Very nice.