Welcome to the Oeschinensee UNESCO World Heritage Site! The nature around Oeschinensee is unique - and particularly worthy of protection. To keep it that way, our rangers are out and about on a regular basis: they accompany visitors, answer questions and work to protect this impressive landscape. Those who are mindful and respectful when out and about will experience the true magic of this special place - safely, relaxed and unforgettable. Find out more on this page about how to protect plants, animals and paths and how to move responsibly in nature.
Experience exciting first-hand insights: the ranger at Oeschinensee imparts up-to-date and in-depth knowledge about nature, wildlife, safety and correct behavior in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Short, concise and straight from the experts.
Oeschinensee lies at over 1,500 meters. As beautiful as the panorama is, the terrain and weather can be challenging. Good preparation will protect you and make your day in the great outdoors an unforgettable experience. Here you will find a helpful equipment list.
What should I bear in mind when choosing hiking equipment?
The area around Kandersteg is home to a variety of ongoing ecological and biological processes. The diversity ranges from Antarctic conditions around the ice worlds of the Kanderfirn or the Blüemlisalp glacier to partly Mediterranean flora and fauna. The development of the various ecosystems with their associated plant and animal communities is constantly changing.
In the sensitive alpine ecosystem, changes in temperature, for example, manifest themselves quickly. At the "Spitzen Stein" below the Doldenhorn, for example, this causes bed-load slides on a large scale and allows the consequences of climate change to be immediately recognized and studied. The melting glacier creates new habitats with a corresponding increase in plants and animals. As a result, the alpine habitat around Kandersteg is constantly gaining in biodiversity.
No award symbolizes sustainability as impressively as UNESCO World Heritage status. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Lake Oeschinen. Whether hiking, skiing and snowboarding, family adventures, culinary delights or marveling at the majestic Blüemlisalp massif - unforgettable experiences await you. Discover the wide range of activities and let yourself be enchanted by the unique magic of Lake Oeschinen.
The untouched nature around Oeschinensee in the Bernese Oberland is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a valuable habitat for rare plants such as gentian, edelweiss and alpine rose as well as numerous wild animals and birds. More and more people are being drawn to the mountains, lakes and forests. This also increases the pressure on this sensitive natural environment. At the same time, an understanding of ecological relationships is often lost.
This makes it all the more important to know and adhere to the Outdoor Guidelines. They help to preserve the unique landscape - for animals, plants and future generations.
Only use the official barbecue sites to make a fire. Due to the risk of forest fires, fires are only permitted at official barbecue sites. Cutting down trees, branches etc. from the wild is prohibited. Firewood "grill bags" can be purchased at the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant, near the lakeshore, or the wood can be brought from home.
Stay on the official hiking trails for your own safety. Before every hike, check the level of difficulty and equipment (footwear, clothing, food, etc.) and inform yourself in detail about the weather and the current danger situation. Avoid hiking at dusk and at night. Do not enter restricted areas and protected zones.
Cycling of any kind is prohibited in the Oeschinensee area. Out of consideration for our guests, nature and for safety reasons, Oeschinensee can only be visited on foot. There is a judicial ban on cycling (mountain biking, e-biking, etc.). In addition, many forest trails lead through ecologically sensitive areas, i.e. rare and shy wild animals use these areas as retreats and quiet zones.
Wild camping and overnight stays in the great outdoors are prohibited. Camping, bivouacking and spending the night in hammocks or similar is prohibited by law. Oeschinensee patrol the area. The wild animals must not be disturbed at night. There is a campsite at the valley station in Kandersteg. The night-time quiet rule applies (from 22:00).
The public toilets are located at the mountain and valley stations and at the mountain restaurant on the lake shore. There are more toilets in Oeschinensee. Going to the toilet in nature should be avoided. However, if you do need to use the "natural toilet", please do not leave any paper, tissues or wet wipes behind.
Flying drones and model aircraft is prohibited around Oeschinensee . A judicial ban applies, overriding the national (FOCA) and cantonal area flight zones. This protects nature and wildlife and does not disturb other guests. As a drone pilot, you are obliged to find out about the applicable area restrictions before every drone flight. Some drone manufacturers have created their own geofencings. The areas shown there are specified solely by the manufacturer and do not necessarily correspond to the restrictions at Oeschinensee .
Dogs must be kept on a lead. Dogs must be kept on a lead in wildlife rest and protection zones and during the grazing season (cows, sheep, etc.). Please always dispose of dog excrement at the waste separation stations.
Keep a sufficient distance from animals. Walk quietly and inconspicuously past the animals without disturbing them. The animals may be observed, but not fed or touched. Farm animals and wild animals may be used to human noises, but they feel disturbed by the noise and proximity as well as the smell of people and dogs. The animals are grateful if you don't leave any garbage for them to eat, so take everything with you and don't leave anything lying around.
Collect the waste and dispose of it in the waste stations. Waste separation stations are located at the mountain and valley stations, at the mountain coaster and along the main hiking trails.
Do not enter wildlife rest areas, plant protection areas and restricted zones. Signposts mark the protected areas where special rules apply. Never leave the marked paths and tracks and always follow the signs on site. Plants must not be dug up, picked or trampled.
In an emergency, call the rescue service immediately (telephone number 1414). In winter, the SOS patrolman (+41 79 481 01 12) should also be informed. There is an SOS room in the mountain station. Defibrillators are located at the mountain and valley stations and at the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant, near the lakeshore.
Find out in advance about the current local conditions, in particular closures, hazards and weather conditions. Our outdoor guidelines, information boards and status displays will help you find your way around. Adjust your goals and leisure activities according to your fitness and equipment - you are partly in high mountains. Plan enough time for your hike, take sufficient provisions with you and check your equipment.
A large part of the south-eastern shore of Oeschinensee has been declared a restricted area by the Canton of Bern due to rockfall and the risk of falling rocks. There is an absolute ban on entering here! There is a danger to life! Please also draw the attention of others who wish to enter the area and/or call the ranger on +41 79 603 28 78. More information at: Spitze Stei - Municipality of Kandersteg.
Wear shoes suitable for the hike - preferably hiking boots. Bring a rucksack and walking poles. Clothing suitable for the season and sun protection: glasses, headgear, sun cream. Spare clothes are an advantage. Food and enough to drink. Hiking map or our free overview map, which is available at the mountain and valley stations. Charged cell phone with emergency numbers (limited network connection in parts of the Oeschinensee). Emergency first-aid kit and pocket knife.
After rainfall and strong temperature fluctuations (day/night), the risk of rockfall, wet avalanches, debris flow and rockfall increases. Alarm signs are fresh impact marks, rock deposits and outcrops. The more exposed the path, the higher the risk. In such places, it is important to move on quickly. Hiking is always at your own risk. Many rockfalls are often caused by other hikers, mountaineers or animals. Avoid throwing any stones, as you do not know who is below you in the terrain.
Please note that the Oeschinensee Cable car does not transport water sports equipment (SUPs, folding boats, foil boards, etc.). Rowing boats can be hired on the lake.
Behave calmly, do not startle the animals and do not frighten them. Always close the gate and follow the footpath. In general, cows are curious and harmless. Whether large or small, cows and cattle always classify your dog as a predator. Keep your dog on a short lead and keep him under control.
Fishing from the shore and from a rowing boat as well as ice fishing are permitted with a cantonal fishing license in compliance with the regulations on fishing of the Canton of Bern. Daily permits can be purchased at the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant or online. Rowing boats (also with fish boxes) can be hired directly on the lake. Free fishing is not permitted on Oeschinensee . Please refer to the leaflet on mountain lake fishing of the Canton of Bern.
There are numerous snakes in the Oeschinensee area, including poisonous ones. Stay on the paths and keep your dog on a short lead. Remain calm at all times and move away whenever possible if you see a snake. In the event of a bite, if you are not sure which snake it is, call the rescue service immediately on 1414 and the ranger on +41 79 603 28 78. Take a photo of the snake if possible and observe the bite site closely.
Only post activities that are permitted. Publishing prohibited activities can have legal consequences. Remember that content on the internet remains visible for a long time. Only publish photos, videos or quotes on websites and social media from people who have expressly given you their consent to do so (personal rights). Commercial photo shoots are also not permitted at Oeschinensee .
Tent roofs and awnings are not permitted. They irritate large and small game and birds and have a lasting effect on animal behavior. However, we strongly advise our guests to use sun protection. Hats, sun creams and sunglasses, as well as staying in the shade and covering your skin are good measures to take.
In the Charter of Konkordiaplatz with extension municipalities, the municipalities located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site undertake to comply with all regulations that apply in the protected areas on municipal land. Our Outdoor Guidelines are based on these and other applicable regulations. Observe the Outdoor Guidelines and their extensions for the protection of animals and nature.
Our toboggan run is marked and signposted. The majority of you share it with pedestrians, skiers and snowboarders. Keep your distance from other people and stay on the marked and open sledge run. You can hire a sledge at the mountain station. Sledging on the ski slope is prohibited. Sledging is permitted in the Oeschiland beginners' park.
Parties and events with loud music, alcohol and noise etc. are out of place and not welcome. On the other hand, we are happy to welcome groups who respect the animals and plants and enjoy nature with care. Please observe the outdoor guidelines, be careful and protect nature.
When snowshoeing, we are in the middle of the habitat of numerous wild animals. These must not be disturbed. It is therefore important to stay on the marked trails. Always wear warm winter hiking boots and clothing.
Stay safely on the marked and open winter hiking trails and avoid shortcuts. This also applies to snowshoe hikers. Check the level of difficulty and your equipment carefully for each hike. Be aware that you will be crossing the ski slopes and using them in places. During the "Ice Walk", it is important to observe the clearance of the frozen lake and the avalanche bulletin (SLF), see info screens and information boards in the area.
The Oeschinensee ski area follows the international FIS rules in its code of conduct on the slopes. For your own protection and the protection of wild animals, please stay on the marked ski slopes and follow the signs. The piste and rescue service only monitors and controls the marked and open pistes and winter hiking trails.
In Oeschinensee, there is an official launch site at the Cable car mountain station where paragliders can take off. There is no official landing area in Oeschinensee. Avoid any disturbance and danger to people and animals and only practice your sport in the permitted flight zones.
The entire Oeschinensee consists of individual protection zones such as the plant conservation area, BLN, UNESCO World Heritage Site, dry meadows and wildlife rest areas. Many plant species are very rare and strictly protected. Stay on the paths; the following generally applies: picking, digging up, trampling and cutting down are undesirable or prohibited.
More and more people are drawn to the mountains, lakes and forests. The pressure on nature has increased, but at the same time the understanding of nature has decreased. There is a lack of understanding of ecological relationships and the needs of animals and plants.
That's why our Outdoor Guidelines are also clearly visible in strategically important places such as the digital information boards or on posters. Read them now!
In the Oeschinensee area you will find the SAC hut Doldenhorn, the SAC hut Blüemlisalp and the SAC hut Fründenhütte.
No, Oeschinensee is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by various protected areas, including plant conservation areas, dry meadows and wildlife rest areas. Due to these special protective measures, all commercial events and drone flights are prohibited by law. Compliance with these rules is monitored by rangers.
You have the option of contacting the ranger by telephone on +41 79 603 28 78. Alternatively, you can also speak to him in person while he is carrying out his inspection tour in the area. Do not hesitate to contact him to clarify any questions or exchange information.
No, in order for Oeschinensee to be opened for ice skating, the lake must freeze "black". This happens extremely rarely, if this is the case and skating is possible, we will inform you on our website. Entering Lake Oeschinen is at your own risk and you must also observe the information screens, information boards and barriers. There is no infrastructure on site, such as changing rooms or similar, and no skate rental. If the ice is covered with snow, skating is not possible - which is usually the case in winter.
Our nature is unique - and worth protecting. At Oeschinensee, in the heart of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, our rangers work every day to preserve this extraordinary landscape. In our explanatory videos, you will learn in a vivid way how sustainable behavior, safety in the mountains and the respectful treatment of nature and fellow human beings contribute to an unforgettable experience.
Flying drones and model aircraft is prohibited around Oeschinensee . They disturb the peace and quiet, put wild animals under stress and impair the experience of nature for everyone. Please respect the ban and help to protect this unique place.
Overnight stays in the open air are not permitted at Oeschinensee - to protect nature and wildlife. The night belongs to the animals - they need this time to rest. Respect the peace and quiet at night and refrain from spending the night in the great outdoors.
Leashes are compulsory in wildlife rest areas and during the grazing season to protect nature. Wild animals depend on undisturbed retreats. Please keep your dog on a lead and dispose of dog waste in the waste stations - for an intact nature and respectful coexistence.
We leave nothing but footprints on Oeschinensee . All garbage - even the smallest scraps, handkerchiefs or cigarette butts - belong in the official garbage stations or back in the valley. This is how we protect animals, plants and the unique experience of nature.
Wildlife sanctuaries are refuges for animals - especially in winter, when any escape can be life-threatening. Please stay on the marked paths, do not enter protected areas and respect the signs. This is how we protect nature and its inhabitants together.
After the winter, the ground on many paths is unstable. Despite closures, dangerous situations and rescue operations still occur. Please respect the barriers and stay on the open hiking trails. This will protect yourself - and nature.
Sturdy hiking boots and snowshoes, weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection are a must - even in winter! Also pack enough water, provisions and a map. For a safe and uniquely beautiful stay here with us at Oeschinensee.
Always take a charged cell phone with you and know the emergency numbers (Rega: 1414, police: 117). Inform someone about your planned route and avoid walking alone. This way you can be reached in an emergency and are better protected.
For a safe and unforgettable experience: choose a route that suits your fitness level and find out about the weather and trail conditions in advance. Check the current status reports and take a map, plenty of water and a charged cell phone with you.
Walking correctly makes all the difference - for more energy uphill and less strain downhill. What is important? A steady pace, stable steps and the right use of poles. Add to this the right equipment and your visit will be a real experience.
Avalanches are a real danger in the mountains. Stay on marked trails and check our information boards in the area and the current avalanche warnings before you set off. Did you know? The Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research in Davos (SLF) is a world leader in avalanche research.
The bearded vulture is nationally protected and plays an important role in the ecosystem. Did you know? It eats almost exclusively bones, which it can digest with its strong stomach acid. This is how it keeps nature clean. By the way: the rare griffon vulture also lives here - please don't disturb it!
Fire salamanders, Alpine salamanders and Alpine newts are rare inhabitants of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. They need damp, undisturbed habitats. Respect protected areas - this will help to preserve these sensitive amphibians.
The chamois is a skilled climber and perfectly adapted to steep terrain. Their hooves have flexible soles that provide particularly good grip on rocks. In summer they graze on alpine pastures, in winter they seek shelter in the forest. The best way to observe them is from a distance.
Rare alpine plants bloom at Oeschinensee , from bright gentians to the protected edelweiss. These flowers are an important part of the ecosystem - please do not pick or trample them. Leave them where they grow so that everyone can enjoy their beauty.
Wild camping is prohibited at Oeschinensee - not only to protect nature, but also for your safety. Asps and adders seek warmth and quiet places, exactly where illegal camping often takes place. Use official campsites and stay on marked paths.
The beautiful Oeschinensee and its surroundings are part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site - one of the most valuable natural areas in the world. With respectful behavior, we all contribute to the sustainable preservation of this heritage in the Bernese Oberland.
The entire region around Oeschinensee in the Bernese Oberland is home to unique ecosystems, rare animal and plant species and centuries-old cultural landscapes. Their daily protection preserves this valuable heritage for future generations.
In winter, all wild animals are dependent on any source of energy. Avoid disturbances by respecting wildlife rest areas and keeping quiet. Stay exclusively on marked winter routes to protect the sensitive vegetation.
When nature awakens in spring, a sensitive phase begins for plants and animals. Ground-nesting birds and fresh vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Stay on the paths and respect protected areas - you will be making a valuable contribution.
A visit to the mountains can be environmentally friendly: travel by public transport, take your garbage back with you, stay on marked trails and respect wildlife rest areas. Less noise, fewer tracks - for an intact nature.
We provide unique and unforgettable moments in the imposing mountain world in front of the Blüemlisalp massif.
Cable car Oeschinensee AG
Oeschistrasse 50
3718 Kandersteg
Last updated: 13.05.2025 - 02:57:03
