Exploring the Aare River: Swimming, Walking & Riverside Cafes in Bern
Exploring the Aare River: Swimming, Walking & Riverside Cafes in Bern
Blog Article
There are rare cities where a river might be perceived as the lifeline of the city; yet, the Aare summarizes this very lifeline in Bern. This river is not merely a waterway passing by the capital city of Switzerland; it is an experience, a meeting place, and the coolest respite from hot summer days.
When I first got to Bern, I wondered what awaited me. Most travelers to Switzerland seek the pulse of Zurich or the storybook Octant town of Lucerne, but then Bern charms everyone with its own appeal: being a UNESCO site and very laid-back.
The Aare River truly embodies that charm. Whether you fancy a good swim, a peaceful promenade by the banks, or a nice afternoon sipping coffee, the Aare has it all, just like how travelers flying from London enjoy the convenience of Stansted airport cheap parking options, ensuring a smooth journey before their Swiss adventure.
Jump Right In: Swimming in the Aare
If you've ever wanted to fit in with the locals in Bern, there's no better way than diving in the Aare. And I mean jumping right in.
On my first day in the city, I walked down to the riverbank and saw people, young and old alike, tossing their bags onto the grass and casually changing into their swimsuits, stepping into the rushing water.
Some were even jumping off bridges or diving platforms into the bluest of waters. It seemed equally exhilarating and scary.
After a moment of hesitation (and some heavy breathing), I just dove right in. I joined a small group of locals down to the swimming site, near the Schwellenmaetteli area.
The water was shockingly cold, and after my body got through that moment of shock, it was an absolute pleasure to be floating. The current was so strong it swept me away effortlessly past the medieval structures of the Old Town and the towering Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament) above me.
I floated along, watching the city go by in a haze of green and gray. The feeling was exhilaratingly laced with freshness and quietude. I never realized I was already at one of the official exit points, where swimmers earnestly clambered up the stairs and onto dry land.
Walking along the Aare: Paths of Beauty & Hidden Places
Not quite yet ready for the full plunge? Well, the Aare's really more charming from the shore.
The riverside paths in Bern are probably very scenic and well maintained in all of Switzerland. You can walk, jog or cycle it for miles along the perfectly paved trails hugging the river. Then, postcard-worthy views with every turn.
I started my stroll from the Nydegg Bridge, which has great views of Old Town Bern hanging above the river. From that point on, the path snakes through lush greenery, past quaint wooden bridges and peaceful picnic spots.
One of my favorites was probably the Lorrainebad, which certainly is a more relaxed area along the river where locals sunbathe on wooden decks and dip their feet into the cool water.
It felt like a tourists' experience but rather a hidden little getaway, where friends met with picnic baskets and afternoons were wasted away.
Somewhere further along, I found my prosaic little find-the Elfenau Park, with its very meadows, gardens and tree-lined strolling paths.
It is indeed a splendid place of 'escape' from city buzz; I was shocked by the few people. I sat on a bench by the river, watching kayakers glide by and considered why Bern was not more famed for this.
If you are up for a longer walk, the path continues across the way to Dählhölzi, home of Bern's small but lovely zoo.
And yet, even if you are not going to the zoo, you should take in this beautiful landscape, again, with trails, wood and little clearings for sitting and watching the rushing water.
Note: Whenever you plan to travel, make sure to check meet and greet at Heathrow for a stress-free travel experience.
Cafes with a View: Where to Eat & Drink by the Aare
After all that swimming and walking, I was ready for one of my fav travel pastimes: hunting the perfect - perfect, mind you - cafe by the river. This, being Bern, a really effortlessly cool city, there are tons to choose from.
So I started at Schwellenmaetteli, an absolutely fabulous design on this cafe and direct restaurant on the riverbank. It is built right under the Old Town and thus offers one of the most excellent panoramas over the Aare, as framed by green trees and historic buildings. I ordered a cappuccino and a slice of homemade cake, soaking it in the peaceful atmosphere as the river flowed just meters away.
However, for a more casual vibe, I then headed off to Gelateria di Berna, a local favorite with its fabulous homemade ice cream. Although not directly by the water, one only had to walk a little, and one just can't beat grabbing some of their honey-lavender gelato before heading to one's quiet patch along the river.
Then there's the little gem, Altes Tramdepot - that sure-hold throne of brewery and restaurant on a hill from where one looks down to the Aare.
It offers quite possibly some of the best craft beer in Bern, but for me, all the icing is on the outdoor terrace, which opens up into an amazing view overlooking the river and Old Town.
Just sat back there with a cold pint, watching the sun cast a golden glow over the water, and felt like I had just found one of the best-kept secrets in the city.
Why the Aare Makes Up Bern's Heart
By the end of my trip, I realized that the Aare isn’t just a river, it’s the heart of Bern. It’s where locals gather, where summer days are spent in joyful abandon, and where even a simple walk becomes an unforgettable experience. Report this page