Best of Bernese Oberland & Swiss Countryside Tour

The Best of Bernese Oberland & Swiss Countryside Tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Zurich, providing an up-close look at some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes. Priced at $862.25 per person, the tour lasts approximately 9 hours and includes luxury Mercedes Benz transport, a professional driver-guide, and door-to-door pickup and drop-off options. This private experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, flexible way to explore mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and cities without the stress of self-driving or crowded group tours.

The tour is highly rated, with 14 reviews giving it a perfect 5.0 out of 5 and 100% recommending it. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and the variety of stops, from waterfalls to charming towns. While the tour offers a rich experience, it involves several stops and some walking, making it suitable for most physically able travelers. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting an in-depth, personalized Swiss adventure.

Key Points

• Private, door-to-door service from Zurich with luxury Mercedes Benz vehicles
• All-inclusive experience with a professional driver-guide and cable car rides
• Visiting Lauterbrunnen Valley Waterfalls, Isenfluh cable car, Interlaken, and Bern’s UNESCO Old Town
• Flexible itinerary with stops at scenic mountain passes, waterfalls, and alpine villages
• Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of stunning views

Scenic Drive Through the Brünig Pass and Swiss Lakes

This tour begins with a scenic drive through the Brünig Pass, situated at 1,000 meters altitude. As the vehicle crosses this mountain route, travelers enjoy their first panoramic views of Swiss Lakes and Mountains. A brief photo stop allows for capturing the sweeping landscape and the vibrant colors of the alpine scenery.

This pass offers a taste of Switzerland’s dramatic geography, with views that set the tone for the day ahead. The brief stop is perfect for stretching legs and snapping pictures before heading further into the heart of the Bernese Oberland.

Exploring Lauterbrunnen Valley Waterfalls and Village

The tour’s next highlight is a walk through Lauterbrunnen, a village famed for its 72 waterfalls. Among these, the Staubbach Falls is the tallest, plunging 300 meters from a rocky ledge into the valley below. This peaceful stroll reveals the stunning natural beauty of one of Switzerland’s most celebrated valleys, often described as one of the most beautiful in the world.

The Lauterbrunnen stop is free of charge and lasts about an hour, giving ample time to admire the waterfalls and take photographs. The scenery here makes a memorable impression, with lush greenery contrasting against the cascading water.

Isenfluh Cable Car Ride and Mountain Lunch

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is a ride on the Isenfluh cable car, which uniquely accommodates only 8 passengers (or one cow). The cable car transports visitors into the Swiss Alps, where panoramic views stretch over Jungfraujoch, Eiger, and Mönch peaks.

At the top, travelers enjoy a traditional Swiss lunch at a mountain Stübli, a cozy local restaurant. This stop lasts about an hour and a half, offering both spectacular scenery and genuine Swiss cuisine. The ride and meal combine to create a memorable moment away from the crowds and into a tranquil mountain setting.

Discovering Interlaken Between Two Lakes

Following the mountain excursion, the tour visits Interlaken, a lively town positioned between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Surrounded by towering Alpine peaks, Interlaken provides a charming contrast to the mountain villages and waterfalls.

A leisurely walk through Interlaken’s streets offers opportunities to browse local shops and pick up Swiss souvenirs. The visit lasts around an hour, perfect for soaking in the relaxed Swiss atmosphere and taking photos of the lakes and mountains.

Exploring Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

The final stop is Bern, the Swiss capital, famous for its medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed Old Town. Walking through cobbled streets, visitors see historic buildings, charming arcades, and the Aare River flowing through the city.

In about an hour, the tour guides you through Bern’s rich history and cultural sights, with stunning city views from various vantage points. This walk provides a memorable conclusion, highlighting Bern’s reputation as one of the most charming cities in Switzerland.

Convenient Logistics and Private Transport

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with luxury Mercedes Benz vehicles ensuring comfort and style throughout the day. It operates seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, accommodating most travelers’ schedules. The service is suitable for most, with service animals allowed and close access to public transportation options.

Being a private tour, only your group participates, allowing for customization and a more relaxed pace. The full-day experience balances sightseeing with sufficient time at each location.

Optional Extras and Additional Costs

While the core tour includes many highlights, some optional activities are extra. The Jungfraujoch and Mt. Schilthorn visits require separate tickets, which travelers should arrange directly with the tour provider. Entry to the Aare Gorges costs 12 CHF per person. Lunch is not included, but the guide can accommodate schedule adjustments for a meal.

If travelers wish to visit specific attractions beyond the standard stops, contacting the provider before the tour allows for planning and fee arrangements.

Reviews Highlighting the Tour’s Strengths

The 14 reviews unanimously rate the tour as 5 out of 5, emphasizing knowledgeable guides and spectacular views. One review praises the guide Pedro for taking visitors off the usual tourist path to reveal phenomenal views of Eiger, Titlis, and Europe’s tallest mountain. The cable car ride is also highlighted as a very cool feature.

Another review mentions a family group of 8, with ages ranging from 16 to 80, who appreciated the luxurious 9-passenger van and the personalized experience. The consistent praise for the guide’s expertise and the scenic variety makes this tour stand out as a memorable Swiss adventure.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. If weather conditions are poor, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded. The service requires a minimum number of travelers to operate but generally caters well to private groups seeking flexibility and comfort.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Bernese Oberland & Swiss Countryside Tour

This private day trip from Zurich combines luxury transport, scenic landscapes, and expert guiding to showcase the best of the Bernese Oberland and Swiss countryside. The combination of waterfalls, mountain villages, lakes, and Bern’s historic Old Town offers a diverse and enriching experience.

Ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace and personalized service, this tour is especially suited for travelers eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of self-driving or crowded group tours. Its high ratings and positive reviews reflect its quality, making it a compelling choice for a memorable Swiss day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes luxury Mercedes Benz transportation, professional driver-guide, cable car ride, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guide can accommodate schedule adjustments for a meal at a mountain restaurant.

Can I visit Jungfraujoch or Mt. Schilthorn?
Yes, but these visits require additional ticket purchases. Contact the provider after booking to arrange these optional excursions.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the stops and outdoor activities.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from about 1 hour at Lauterbrunnen and Bern, to 1.5 hours at Isenfluh, allowing ample time to explore and enjoy each location.

What about accessibility?
The tour is accessible for most, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation.

Is the tour customizable?
As a private experience, the itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests and schedule, especially regarding optional attractions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Book through the provider’s website or contact Swiss Epic Tours directly at +41 79 811 5969 or [email protected].

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private, personalized approach, stunning mountain and waterfall views, and the expert guidance make it a memorable Swiss experience for travelers wanting more than just the usual sightseeing.