Kandersteg is a super beautiful alpine village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by towering mountains, Kandersteg offers a quintessential Swiss experience with picturesque landscapes, traditional chalets, churches and beautiful hikes . The village is a gateway to some of the country's most stunning trails. I was in awe of the beauty of Kandersteg.

📸Photo tips:

The main street with the church steeple in the background, the local farms, and the quaint bridges over the Kander River is a beautiful photo location .

The Lötschberg Base Tunnel is one of the longest railway tunnels in the world and a beautiful photo spot to capture the trains emerge from the mountain.

Best things to do in Kandersteg

💦Kander River

The Kander River offers a serene backdrop . Whether you're walking along its banks, taking photos of its clear waters, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, the river is a central and cherished part of the Kandersteg experience that you have to check out.

Kandersteg Village: The village is known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, including towering peaks, lush valleys, clear rivers and lakes. The surrounding mountains, such as the Blüemlisalp and Doldenhorn, offer stunning backdrops.

Cafe Schweizerhof:

Located in the heart of Kandersteg, Cafe Schweizerhof is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee. The cafe also serves light meals and snacks, making it a great place for breakfast or a midday break.

🩵Visit Oeschinensee (Lake Oeschinen- see Oeschinensee pin for more info)

Oeschinensee is one of Kandersteg's most famous attractions . This glacial lake, often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the Alps, is located at an elevation of 1,578 metres and is surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the Blüemlisalp massif. The lake can be reached via a cable car from Kandersteg followed by a short hike, or by hiking directly from the village. In summer,you can enjoy activities like rowing, swimming, and hiking, while in winter, the lake freezes over, offering opportunities for ice skating.

🛶Blausee (see Blausee pin for more info)

Another nearby attraction is Blausee, a small, pristine lake famous for its deep blue colour. Surrounded by forest . Blausee is a tranquil spot ideal for walking, picnics and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

🥾Sunnbüel and Gemmi Pass

Sunnbüel is another high-altitude area accessible by cable car from Kandersteg. From here, you can hike to the historic Gemmi Pass, which connects the Bernese Oberland with the Valais region. The area offers breathtaking views and a range of hiking trails.

📸Best photo Spot: The summit of the pass, especially at sunrise or sunset, and the area around the Gemmi Lodge. The views towards the Valais and the Bernese Alps are stunning photo spots!

🏔️Gasterntal Valley

The Gasterntal Valley is a remote and rugged valley accessible from Kandersteg. Known for its wild beauty, the valley is stunning. The area is home to the Gastern Glacier and offers challenging hikes, such as the Lötschen Pass, a historic route that has been used since Roman times.

❄️UNESCO-Ice Walk in Winter

Located in the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ice walk will take you through the mountains and onto frozen Lake Oeschinensee. The trails are all groomed ahead of time, so you won’t have to trek through any deep snow, and there are options of a 30-minute hike as well as a 90-minute hike.

🍽️Where to eat:

Tea Room Marmotte

A quaint and charming spot, Tea Room Marmotte is known for its homemade cakes, pies, and other baked goods. They also offer a selection of sandwiches, soups, and light meals.

Ruedihus

Set in a historic chalet, Ruedihus offers a charming and rustic dining experience. The menu features classic Swiss dishes, local delicacies, and a selection of fine wines. The ambiance is enhanced by the traditional decor and the building's rich history.

Restaurant Adler

This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of Swiss dishes, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes. It’s a great place to try fondue, rösti, and other local favourites.

Berghotel Oeschinensee

Located near the beautiful Oeschinensee, this restaurant offers stunning views along with a selection of Swiss and European dishes. It's an ideal spot for a meal after exploring the lake or hiking in the area. You will love the outdoor terrace , the views are 10/10. This restaurant provides vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options

Victoria Ritter Restaurant

Located in the historic Hotel Victoria Ritter, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional Swiss and international dishes. The elegant dining room and excellent service make it a great choice for a more upscale dining experience.

🗓️Best Time to Visit:

Kandersteg is a year-round destination, with each season offering different attractions. Summer is ideal for hiking and exploring the lakes, while winter brings opportunities for skiing and snow sports.

🚞 Getting There:

Kandersteg is accessible by train and car. The village is on the main railway line between Spiez and Brig, with frequent connections to major Swiss cities . The Lötschberg car train tunnel provides a direct link for drivers between Kandersteg and the Valais region.

Hope you have a wonderful time exploring beautiful Kandersteg.