Oberhofen Castle
A 13th-century castle on Lake Thun, featuring interactive Bernese culture exhibits and stunning gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene lake views
Oberhofen Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene lake views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century castle on Lake Thun, featuring interactive Bernese culture exhibits and stunning gardens.
"One of the best, most beautiful castles I've seen in Europe! Very interactive & easy to navigate."
🚢 Boat to Spiez Option
You can take a boat from Oberhofen to Spiez, but check schedules. Walking from Thun to Oberhofen is scenic but time-consuming.
🕰️ Allow ample exploration time
The castle has 5 floors and takes over 30 mins to visit. Gardens also deserve time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Castle's Lakeside Silhouette
Lake Thun shoreline
A 13th-century castle majestically reflected in the tranquil waters of Lake Thun.

Interactive Bernese Culture Museum
Inside the castle
Discover history through engaging displays and picturesque rooms, a must for history buffs.

Enchanting Castle Gardens
Castle grounds
Gorgeously maintained gardens offering a peaceful retreat with stunning lake and mountain views.

Unique Arabic-Style Smoking Parlor
Inside the castle
A distinctive room showcasing the owner's selective taste for Arabic-inspired decor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Oberhofen Castle
Exploring the Castle and Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Lake Thun: Oberhofen to Spiez by boat?
🚢 Boat to Spiez Option
You can take a boat from Oberhofen to Spiez, but check schedules. Walking from Thun to Oberhofen is scenic but time-consuming.
🕰️ Allow ample exploration time
The castle has 5 floors and takes over 30 mins to visit. Gardens also deserve time.
Oberhofen Castle, Bern, Switzerland
🐭 Kid-Friendly Mouse Hunt
Kids can enjoy a fun mouse hunt activity throughout the castle, making it engaging for families.
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking is available if you're traveling by car.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat to Spiez Option
You can take a boat from Oberhofen to Spiez, but check schedules. Walking from Thun to Oberhofen is scenic but time-consuming.
🕰️ Allow ample exploration time
The castle has 5 floors and takes over 30 mins to visit. Gardens also deserve time.
🐭 Kid-Friendly Mouse Hunt
Kids can enjoy a fun mouse hunt activity throughout the castle, making it engaging for families.
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking is available if you're traveling by car.
💡 Interactive Exhibits
The castle is very interactive with amazing displays and information in each room.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Oberhofen Castle for its stunning lakeside setting and the beautiful, well-maintained gardens. The interactive museum experience, rich with Bernese culture and historical details, is a major highlight, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. While generally loved, some find the ticket price a bit high, and it's not covered by the standard Swiss Pass.
"Nestled beside a serene lake, the castle stands in majestic splendour, its silhouette reflected in the tranquil waters.
The lake, shimmering under the natural light, enhances the castle’s beauty and offers a peaceful retreat.
Graceful mountains encircle the lake and castle, their presence inspiring awe and accentuating the harmony between architecture and nature.
This setting showcases nature at its very best, combining water, stone, and mountain to create a truly captivating scene."
Goran Šimić
"One of the best, most beautiful castles Ive seen in Europe! I love that it is very interactive & easy to navigate. There are so many amazing displays, information, and picturesque rooms. A must visit for history enthusiasts."
Bea Andrea Sicat
"Beautiful castle inside and out. The gardens outside are gorgeous. There are interactive exhibits. My son really enjoyed the kids story with the mouse hunt throughout the castle."
Kelsey Harrington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk from Thun to Oberhofen Castle, which is a scenic route along Lake Thun, though it takes time. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a boat. A boat trip offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Yes, it is possible to take a boat from Oberhofen Castle to Spiez. This is a popular option for a half-day trip on Lake Thun, offering picturesque views. It's advisable to check the boat schedules in advance.
Yes, there are plenty of parking lots available if you are traveling to Oberhofen Castle by car. This makes it a convenient option for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
Public transport options include buses that stop near the castle and boat services on Lake Thun. The boat route often connects Thun, Oberhofen, and Spiez, providing a scenic way to travel.
Oberhofen Castle is accessible by public transport, with bus stops and boat landings in close proximity. This allows visitors to easily reach the castle without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific pricing isn't detailed in the provided information, visitors mention that the castle is not covered by the Swiss Pass but may offer discounts with a visitor pass. It's recommended to check the official website for current ticket prices.
Booking tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. However, some visitors suggest it's not always necessary, but checking ahead is wise to avoid potential queues.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Oberhofen Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Yes, a visitor pass might offer some discounts on admission to Oberhofen Castle. It's not covered by the standard Swiss Pass, so inquire about available passes for potential savings.
No, Oberhofen Castle is not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. However, you might be eligible for discounts if you possess a specific visitor pass for the region.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Oberhofen Castle, you'll find an interactive museum showcasing Bernese culture, picturesque rooms, a hidden dining hall, and a unique Arabic-style smoking parlor. Information in each room takes visitors back in time.
Yes, Oberhofen Castle is very family-friendly. Children can enjoy a 'mouse hunt' story activity throughout the castle, making the visit engaging and fun for younger visitors.
A visit to Oberhofen Castle typically takes over 30 minutes to explore its five floors. You should allocate additional time to wander through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the lakeside setting.
The gardens at Oberhofen Castle are described as gorgeous, well-maintained, and cute. They offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains.
Absolutely! Oberhofen Castle features many amazing and interactive displays, with information provided in each room to immerse visitors in the history and culture of the castle's former inhabitants.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is capturing the castle's silhouette reflected in Lake Thun. The gardens also offer picturesque views, and the castle's architecture itself provides many beautiful angles.
Photography is generally allowed inside historical sites like Oberhofen Castle, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods within the museum areas.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most beautiful and soft lighting for photography, especially for capturing the castle's reflection on the lake. Weekday mornings can also offer fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in and around historical sites and national parks to protect the heritage and wildlife. It's crucial to check local regulations regarding drone operation before flying near Oberhofen Castle.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for both the castle architecture and garden details. A wide-angle lens can capture the full lakeside panorama, and a polarizing filter can enhance the lake reflections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience for your family. The easy accessibility via car with ample parking, or scenic boat rides on Lake Thun, also add to the convenience for families traveling with children.
🚗 Car Travelers
While parking is available, remember that the castle itself is a pedestrian-friendly site. Once parked, you'll be able to easily walk to the castle entrance and explore the grounds and gardens at your leisure. Enjoy the ease of access and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Bernese Culture
One of the most intriguing aspects is the distinct staircases: one for the owners, adorned with a red carpet, and another for the servants. This architectural detail speaks volumes about the historical social hierarchy. The castle has undergone numerous renovations, resulting in a blend of historical charm and somewhat modern touches, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations.
Beyond the historical exhibits, the castle's unique features, like the Arabic-style smoking parlor, offer a glimpse into the eclectic tastes of its past residents. These elements contribute to Oberhofen Castle's reputation as a highly detailed and engaging historical site, making it a standout destination for those interested in Swiss heritage.
The Enchanting Lakeside Setting
Encircling this idyllic scene are graceful mountains, their imposing presence accentuating the natural beauty of the landscape. The combination of water, stone, and mountain vistas showcases nature at its finest, contributing to the castle's picturesque charm. It's this spectacular setting that inspires awe and makes Oberhofen Castle a photographer's dream and a visitor's delight.
The castle's gardens further enhance this natural splendor. Described as gorgeous and well-maintained, they offer a delightful space to wander and soak in the panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Whether you're exploring the castle's interiors or enjoying the outdoor beauty, the lakeside setting is a constant source of wonder and tranquility.
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