Matten bei Interlaken, BE, Switzerland, tucked between dramatic Alpine peaks and crystal-clear lakes, is a gem for travelers who crave active days, vibrant social scenes, and easy access to the best of the Jungfrau region. This valley-side town is the perfect springboard for adventures and a cozy base for long weekends with friends. When I’m plotting a holiday with a crew, I look for vacation rentals that balance location, comfort, and that irresistible Swiss charm. Matten delivers on all fronts, offering a range of holiday rentals and house rentals that feel like a home away from home, with the bonus of being just a stone’s throw from Interlaken’s buzzy spots and the great outdoors. If you’re hunting for the right place to stay, searchandstay.com is a great starting point to find accommodations in Matten bei Interlaken and the surrounding area, with options to suit solo travelers, couples, and groups.
Why Matten bei Interlaken is the perfect base for active travelers
Matten bei Interlaken sits on the southern shore of Lake Thun and offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than the lively center of Interlaken, while still being within easy reach of shops, cafés, and nightlife. For a group trip, it’s ideal because you can split your days between alpine adventures and lakeside downtime without the constant resort vibe. The town’s layout makes it easy to switch from a quiet morning jog along the Aare river to an afternoon hike that climbs toward the surrounding peaks. The area is blessed with year-round appeal: summer hikes, autumn alpenglow, winter snowsports, and springtime blossoms all come alive against the dramatic backdrops of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Vacation rentals and house rentals in Matten bei Interlaken
When you’re booking accommodations in Matten bei Interlaken, you’ll find a mix of stylish apartments, cozy chalets, and several family- or group-friendly houses. The vacation rentals here often feature balconies with lake views, sunlit living spaces, and well-equipped kitchens—perfect for making a group meal after a day on the trails. For those traveling with friends, many properties offer multiple bedrooms, open-plan living areas, and easy access to outdoor terraces for sunset cocktails or a late-night card game under the Alpine sky.
The proximity to Interlaken means you can enjoy the serenity of a smaller town while having access to the town’s dining, nightlife, and transportation connections. If you’re designing a multi-stop itinerary, Matten’s central location makes it simple to coordinate day trips to Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Grindelwald, and the broader Jungfrau region. Look for vacation rentals in Matten bei Interlaken that emphasize a strong Wi-Fi connection for remote planning, private parking if you’re renting a car, and storage for bikes or gear if you’re coming for cycling, hiking, or winter sports.
Top activities from Matten bei Interlaken
Active travelers will feel right at home in this corner of the Bernese Oberland. Here are some of the day-to-day experiences that consistently top lists and keep groups returning year after year:
- Lake Thun boat trips and lakeside picnics: Short hops or longer cruises offer photo-worthy views of reflectively calm water framed by mountains.
- Hiking the valley: Trails along the Aare river, up to vantage points around Matten, and into the neighboring valleys provide choices for all fitness levels.
- Jungfrau region explorations: With easy access to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Mürren from Interlaken, you can day-trip to the car-free villages for iconic sawtooth panoramas.
- Harder Kulm and scenic viewpoints: A short ride from Interlaken gives you a sweeping perch over the twin towns and the lakes below.
- Paragliding and adventure sports: For adrenaline lovers, the skies above Interlaken are a playground with tandem flights offering epic vistas of mountains and lakes.
- Winter wonderlands: In winter, Matten serves as a gateway to snow-capped trails, toboggan runs, and nearby ski towns with cozy chalets and après-ski vibes.
Local experiences you won’t forget
Beyond the obvious natural attractions, Matten bei Interlaken offers intimate experiences that are perfect for a group trip. The region is famous for high-quality Swiss chocolates, fresh cheeses, and hearty fondue—ideal for cozy evenings after a day outdoors. In Interlaken town, you’ll discover chocolate shops, traditional bakeries, and small markets where locals swap tips about the best routes and viewpoints. A weekend here can easily blend active exploration with slow, social evenings on a quiet terrace, listening to the Swiss evening with a mug of zuckersüß hot cocoa or a glass of local wine.
To truly immerse yourself, consider guided experiences such as a private Alps-to-lake hike, a guided bike tour around Lake Brienz, or a culinary hike that ends at a traditional Swiss restaurant. The area’s natural beauty pairs beautifully with cultural experiences—think cheese tasting in a hillside dairy, a chocolate workshop in town, or a sunset cruise that quietly slides across the water with the Alps as a dramatic backdrop. These experiences are available through tour providers in the Interlaken region, and many can be arranged through accommodations listed on searchandstay.com, which regularly features properties with access to curated local experiences.
Outdoor adventures near Matten and the Jungfrau region
If you’re planning a moveable feast of activities, use Matten as your base to explore the Jungfrau’s legendary high-altitude routes. Day trips can include:
- Schynige Platte Panorama and the botanical garden: An easy-to-moderate hike or a scenic train ride that delivers classic Swiss Alpine scenery.
- Top of Europe experience at Jungfraujoch: A must-see for first-timers, offering snow, ice, and spectacular glacier vistas even in summer.
- Glacier and canyon walks around Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen: Dramatic waterfalls, steep cliffs, and valleys that feel like a postcard come to life.
- Schilthorn and Piz Gloria: A location made famous by the Bond films, with 360-degree views and a futuristic cable car ride.
- Boat trips on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz: Peaceful, scenic reflections, perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends.
Family-friendly and group-friendly vacation rentals in Matten
Whether you’re traveling with parents, kids, or a tight-knit group of friends, Matten bei Interlaken offers accommodations that strike the right balance between privacy and social space. Look for rentals with multiple bedrooms, a shared living area, and a well-equipped kitchen so you can cook together after a day on the trail. Many properties also feature outdoor spaces—balconies, patios, or small gardens—where you can unwind with a glass of Swiss wine as the sun slips behind the Alps. If you’re bringing kids, ask about kid-friendly amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and proximity to playgrounds or family-friendly trails.
Pet-friendly stays and practical tips
Many vacation rentals in Matten bei Interlaken welcome pets, which makes it easier to travel with four-legged friends who love long walks by the lake and on forest paths. When booking, confirm pet policies, any additional cleaning fees, and whether there are nearby green spaces suitable for dogs. Practical travel tips for Matten include packing layers for changing mountain weather, comfortable walking shoes, and a daypack for short treks. If you’re flying into Switzerland, you’ll generally land in Zurich or Basel and take a scenic train ride or a rental car to Matten—both options are straightforward, but the train is a wonderfully stress-free way to absorb the alpine surroundings on the way in.
How to choose the right vacation rental in Matten bei Interlaken
Finding the right rental is about aligning your priorities with the property’s features. Consider these factors when evaluating options:
- Location: Proximity to Interlaken town, Lake Thun, and major trailheads. A short walk to a bakery or a market can make mornings easier.
- Views and outdoor space: A balcony or garden with alpine views enhances the experience, especially for sunset moments with friends.
- Size and layout: Ensure there are enough sleeping areas and common spaces for the group. An open-plan living area often helps groups mingle after a day outside.
- Facilities: A well-equipped kitchen, washing machine, parking, and Wi-Fi improve comfort and convenience for longer stays.
- Extras: Some rentals may offer bikes, kayaks, or hiking gear storage, which can be a big win for an active group.
Plan, book, and explore with SearchAndStay
To maximize your time in Matten bei Interlaken and the surrounding Jungfrau region, start by selecting a great base. A curated platform like searchandstay.com can simplify your search for accommodations in Matten bei Interlaken and the broader Interlaken area. You’ll find listings that emphasize comfort, access to local experiences, and proximity to adventure options. The site helps you compare vacation rentals and house rentals, filter for family- and group-friendly properties, and discover stays with easy access to hiking trails, lake activities, and scenic train routes. Whether you’re after a stylish apartment with a lake view or a cozy chalet that feels like a Swiss hideaway, there are options to suit every taste and budget on searchandstay.com.
Sample itinerary ideas for a long weekend
If you’re planning a short break with friends, here are a few flexible ideas that balance the best of Matten bei Interlaken and the Jungfrau region:
- Day 1: Arrive, settle into a lakeside rental, stroll through Matten, and have a group dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant in Interlaken. Sunset walk along the lakefront to take in the first alpine views.
- Day 2: Full-day Jungfraujoch excursion or a Schilthorn day trip. Include a mid-day snack break in Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and finish with a casual evening back in Matten.
- Day 3: Lakeside activities on Lake Thun, optional boat trip, and a chocolate or cheese-tasting experience. Wind down with a fondue night at a local eatery.
- Day 4: Easy morning hike near the Aare river, some souvenir shopping in Interlaken, and a late-afternoon departure.
Seasonal highlights to plan around
Another reason Matten und Interlaken shines is its year-round appeal. In summer, long days mean you’ve got time for extended hikes, paddleboarding on the lakes, and scenic train trips. Winter opens up a different kind of magic with snow-dusted peaks and cozy après-ski options in nearby villages. Spring brings wildflowers and milder trails, while autumn delivers crisp air, fewer crowds, and rich mountain colours. No matter when you visit, you’ll find vacation rentals and house rentals in Matten bei Interlaken that suit your seasonal agenda and keep you close to the action.
Practical travel tips for Matten bei Interlaken
To make the most of your trip, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Public transport is efficient and scenic. Use train and bus connections to move quickly between Matten, Interlaken, and the valley towns.
- Book accommodations with flexible cancellation policies when planning a multi-day trip in the Alps.
- Pack layers and a compact rain jacket; mountain weather can change quickly.
- Check local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and bread to enjoy in your rental after a day of exploring.
Final thoughts and how to start
Matten bei Interlaken is more than a base for a Swiss holiday; it’s a destination that invites you to live actively, socialize freely, and savor the best of the Bernese Oberland. Whether you’re booking a chic apartment by the lake or a cozy house with friends, you’ll find a stay that blends comfort with access to the region’s outdoor playgrounds. And with searchandstay.com as a resource to discover accommodations in Matten bei Interlaken, you can filter for the perfect match—whether your trip is all about hiking, lakes, or a mix of both with a touch of Swiss luxury. Start your search today and map out an unforgettable vacation in Matten bei Interlaken, BE, Switzerland, where adventure, friendship, and stunning scenery converge for a truly memorable escape.
For a curated selection of vacation rentals in Matten bei Interlaken and the Interlaken region, visit searchandstay.com to find your next accommodation and plan your adventures with confidence. From lake-view apartments to charming Alpine houses, the right stay makes the Swiss holiday you picture come to life.