With its beautifully sculpted landscape and the range of Switzerland hostels and hotels available, Interlaken has almost become synonymous with adventure tourism and winter sports. This prestigious activity destination offers exciting things for intrepid backpackers staying in Interlaken hostels to do in abundance, whether in the snow or the water.
Skiing
The Swiss Alps are renowned for their winter skiing, and Interlaken offers facilities that ensure visitors can enjoy the piste in the utmost comfort. Skiers tend to make for the Jungfrau Mountain for the best runs which is the highest peak in the area. However, for the less adventurous beginner, the neighboring Eiger and Monch are smaller and slightly easier to contend with. These mountain faces are just as easily accessible from Interlaken hostels as the towering Jungfrau.
Hiking
However, for travelers whose idea of an adventure holiday does not involve latching their feet to skis for the duration of their stay, the beautiful surrounds of the small city of Interlaken are also perfect for hiking. Set between the two picturesque lakes of Brienz and Thun against an Alpine backdrop, Interlaken hostels provide backpackers with a vast and varied landscape to explore on foot, as well as excellent transport links to other places of interest such as Zurich and Geneva.
Watersports
Two huge lakes, waterfalls and streams ensure that there is little in the way of watersports that Interlaken does not offer. From whitewater rafting to relaxing tours on the lake steam boats, Interlaken is as much renowned for its watersports as its skiing. In terms of more hands-on activities, canoeing, kayaking and sailing are by no means in short supply, with operator details likely to be available at local Swiss hostels. Although not for the faint-hearted, brave backpackers can even take a dip in either of the two massive lakes, with swimming facilities and restaurants at the more popular hotspots.
Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers.com Paul Scottyn did a backpacking tour of Switzerland, he checked out a variety of the country's budget accommodation, including a number of Interlaken hostels.
