Spring Hike Along Lake Thun

February 19, 2017 -- More nice weather in the mountains, but having just done a long winter hike three days earlier we were itching for the start of the regular hiking season. It is difficult at this time of year to know ahead of time whether a trail is clear of snow or not. But the North Side of Lake Thun near Interlaken is exposed to a lot of sun, so we were pretty sure we'd be OK on this one.

The trail we picked is Stage 10 of the "Camino de Santiago" trail, which also passes through Switzerland (Stage 10 = Interlaken to Merligen = 13km). We stayed near the lake (climbing at most 150m on the hillside above the lake) and although the trail was mostly through forested areas, we got several nice views of the Bernese Alps, especially Mount Niesen.

Near Interlaken on the lake is a nature reserve (Weissenau) where you can usually observe a variety of birds, but it is still too cold in the season for birds. But we got a nice treat as there were small European Roe Deer grazing in the fields. They feel safe here, knowing people can't come closer.

On the way to Interlaken along Brienz Lake

In Interlaken, you get some nice views of Mount Eiger and Mount Mönch, and the Jungfrau Saddle (on the right).

Walking through the Weissenau Nature Reserve on Lake Thun with views of Mount Niesen

There was a little heard of Roe Deer grazing in the park

We walked 13 km starting in Interlaken West, walking along the Aar River and through the nature reserve, up past the Beatus Caves (closed at this time of year), above a large gravel pit, to Merligen. 
 

On the Saint Jakob's Trail along Lake Thun

Our trail continues up above that road. The trail to get up there was quite nice and not as steep as expected.

Heading up to the trail above this wonderful road.

On the Saint Jakob's Pilgrim Trail along Lake Thun

The Beatus Caves are a highlight along this portion of the trail, but closed at this time of year.

This is the entrance to the Beatus Caves, made for tourists.

View East across this hugh gravel pit

On the St. Jakob's Pilgrim Trail along Lake Thun.

This is the funicular that takes you up to Mount Beatenberg.

Arriving in Merligen, we are surprised to see so many palm trees here. It is nicknamed the "Palm Village" for good reason.

The sunny exposure along the lake seems to be ideal for these palm trees.

Final view of the Bernese Alps before heading by bus to the West, to the city of Thun.