Top 18 Waterfalls around Thunersee
Best waterfalls around Thunersee are found in the Bernese Oberland, a region characterized by its mountainous terrain and glacial meltwater. This area features a diverse range of waterfalls, from powerful cascades to multi-tiered falls. The landscape around Lake Thun provides a backdrop for these natural attractions, often integrated into hiking routes and natural gorges. Visitors can explore various water features that contribute to the region's natural beauty.
Best waterfalls around Thunersee
- The most popular waterfalls is Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves, a waterfall that flows directly from the St. Beatus Caves into Lake Thun. This location offers views over Lake Thun and is nestled against the rocks at the cave entrance.
- Another must-see spot is Zulgschwelle, a waterfall where the Zulg river flows into the Aare over two sills. This creates an interesting picture and is a place to swim.
- Visitors also love Cholerenschlucht Gorge, a gorge home to numerous smaller waterfalls and pools. It offers a scenic and sometimes steep hike through a romantic natural setting.
- Thunersee is known for thundering cascades, serene multi-tiered falls, and gorge waterfalls. The region offers a variety of water features to see and explore.
- The waterfalls around Thunersee are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and more than 600 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
St. Beatus Caves
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According to legend, a fire-breathing dragon lived here in the Middle Ages. Saint Beatus approached him with the cross and called on the Holy Trinity, whereupon the dragon threw itself with a roar into Lake Thun and drowned. Saint Beatus is said to have lived here in the cave until his death. Today, the grave of Saint Beatus and a replica of his cell can be viewed at the cave entrance. Part of the Way of St. James runs below the caves.
Further information is available at beatushoehlen.swiss/de.
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Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves
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Lauterbrunnen Valley
Highlight • Gorge
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St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot
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Cholerenschlucht Gorge
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Tips from the Community
The upper part is more demanding than the lower
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Parking is subject to a fee... you can pay conveniently with Twint, for example... and it is right at the entrance
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That was really mega beautiful
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Very suggestive point on the Thunersee tour route. It is the access to the caves from which a spring flows. The visit to the caves is subject to a fee. However, the uphill path to reach the entrance to the caves is freely accessible. Recommended for the view of the lake from above, the visit to the waterfalls formed by the spring (explanatory panels that tell the state of the fresh water reserves present in Switzerland). Once at the top, the structure from which you access the caves is also a restaurant/bar with a beautiful view of the lake. You can do a circular tour by going up on one side crossing the structure and going down on the opposite side.
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A hike in Tolkien's footsteps through the beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley is always worth seeing and is a good way to "get used to it" on the first few days of your vacation.
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The Lauterbrunnen Valley 🏞️, also known as the "Valley of the 72 Waterfalls", is a paradise for hikers. Highlights include the Staubbach Falls and the Trümmelbach Falls, both of which are spectacular waterfalls 🌊. The well-signposted panoramic trail from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg is particularly recommended 🚶♂️. There are cozy inns and rest areas along the way, ideal for a break.
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The Beatushöhlen restaurant 🍽️ is the perfect place to round off your visit to the Beatushöhlen. Enjoy delicious Swiss specialties 🧀🥩 and international dishes 🍝 in a breathtaking setting right on Lake Thun 🌊. The terrace offers a wonderful panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains 🏔️ - ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery after visiting the caves. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make your visit particularly pleasant 😊.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves unique?
This waterfall flows directly from the St. Beatus Caves into Lake Thun. A path from the car park leads through the forest to the cave entrance, crossing several bridges over the waterfall, offering an enchanting experience. Visitors can explore the stalactite caves and witness the impressive water exit, with views over Lake Thun.
Are there any gorges with waterfalls in the Thunersee region?
Yes, the Cholerenschlucht Gorge near Hünibach is home to numerous smaller waterfalls and pools. It offers a scenic and sometimes steep hike through a romantic natural setting. Good shoes are recommended, and it's often best to hike through the gorge from bottom to top when the ground is damp.
Can I swim near any waterfalls around Thunersee?
The Zulgschwelle, where the Zulg river flows into the Aare over two sills, is known as a nice place to swim. It also features barbecue areas, making it a popular spot for visitors.
What are some impressive multi-tiered waterfalls near Lake Thun?
The Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz, just east of Interlaken, are a magnificent multi-tiered waterfall with 14 levels, plunging approximately 400 meters. You can reach them by ferry and take Europe's oldest funicular up to the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach. A highlight is walking behind the thundering water on specially constructed walkways.
Are there any waterfalls in the Thunersee region that are particularly powerful during snowmelt?
The Pochtenfall in the remote Suldtal, accessible from Aeschiried, cascades 81 meters down and is particularly impressive in spring when snowmelt swells its waters. A circular path allows visitors to admire it from various perspectives.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Thunersee?
Many waterfalls, like the Pochtenfall and Trümmelbach Falls, are most impressive in spring due to snowmelt. However, the Giessbach Falls are captivating year-round, with colorful autumn foliage enhancing the spectacle. The Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves is also accessible for much of the year.
Are there family-friendly waterfall hikes around Thunersee?
Yes, the St. Beatus Caves area, including its waterfall, is considered family-friendly. The Zulgschwelle also offers a nice place to swim and barbecue, suitable for families.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around Thunersee?
The Thunersee region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring bicycle routes like the 'Lake Thun circular route', or more challenging road cycling routes. For mountain biking, there are MTB trails that explore the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Are there any waterfalls that are accessible from behind?
Yes, the Staubbach Falls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, one of Europe's highest free-falling waterfalls, allows visitors to experience it from behind via a rock gallery. Similarly, the Giessbach Falls offer specially constructed walkways that lead behind the thundering water.
What are the Trümmelbach Falls and what makes them special?
The Trümmelbach Falls, located deeper in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, are a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside a mountain. They are unique as the only glacier waterfalls in Europe accessible underground, made explorable by tunnels, lifts, and platforms. They carry meltwater from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau glaciers, creating a powerful, thundering spectacle.
Where can I find parking for the St. Beatus Caves waterfall?
There is a dedicated parking lot, the St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot, which provides access to the caves and the waterfall, as well as offering great views over Lake Thun.
What is Switzerland's highest waterfall, and where is it located?
Switzerland's highest waterfall is the Mürrenbachfall, with a drop of 417 meters. It is located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, near the Stechelberg-Schilthorn cable car station, and is particularly powerful after heavy rain or snowmelt.
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