#relaxzone

STAYING OVERNIGHT IN THE OESCHINENSEE AREA

Enjoy, feel the nature. 

Stay overnight, relax and enjoy the unique tranquillity of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover dreamlike retreats to spend the night with family or friends in the Lake Oeschinen area. Oeschinensee is our home and yours too - for the time you take here for yourself: Many say that Oeschinensee is the most beautiful mountain lake in Europe and the most popular hiking region in Switzerland. Find out more about the official accommodation options during the summer season here!

Good to know

In summer, the Chalet Arva offers an unforgettable overnight experience at Oeschinensee. If you hike a little further, you will reach three SAC huts in the region around the Oeschinensee , which serve and accommodate their guests. There are numerous hotels and vacation apartments in Kandersteg. If you are traveling with a tent, you will find the Rendez-Vous campsite right next to the valley station of the Cable car Kandersteg Oeschinensee . Camping, bivouacs, tents etc. are not permitted in the Oeschinensee area.

INFOBOX

Oeschinensee Mountain Restaurant Oeschinensee on the lakeshore): Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (self-service)
Bergstübli Restaurant (Upper Station): Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (self-service)
Chalet Arva Hotel and Restaurant: Open in May 2026 from Thursday through Sunday. Restaurant: 12:00 PM–4:30 PM
Café-Bar (on the shore of Lake Oeschinen): Casual dining, snacks, drinks, etc.
Underbärgli Mountain Hut: Open only in good weather (9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.)

Chalet Arva

Welcome, here in the midst of breathtaking nature above Kandersteg at Oeschinensee, where our great-great-grandparents once grazed cows in summer.

Chalet Arva has six individually designed double rooms with a bathroom and lake view. Two of the rooms have their own balcony. Here you can rest without a thousand options, wrapped in linen and feeling warm wood under your feet.

The garden with edible flowers, wild herbs and sun loungers is exclusively available to our guests.

Come and stay.

Chalet Arva will be open from May through October in the summer of 2026 as follows:

  • Starting May 9, 2026: Thursday through Sunday (hotel and restaurant)
  • June 2026: Wednesday through Sunday (hotel and restaurant)
  • July and August 2026: 7 days a week (the hotel is closed on Sunday evenings)
  • September 2026: Wednesday through Sunday (hotel and restaurant)
  • October 2026: Thursday through Sunday (hotel and restaurant)
 
Closed on:
  • May 2026: Mon.–Wed.
  • June 2026: Mon./Tue.
  • July/August 2026: None
  • September 2026: Mon./Tue.
  • October 2026: Mon.–Wed.

Philosophy of calm

  • 6 double rooms with private bathroom.
  • Two rooms have their own balcony.


Note:

Chalet Arva does not have heating. If required, we will be happy to pre-warm your bed with a hot water bottle or provide an extra blanket.

Intensive

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the hotel restaurant.
  • The small menu offers something for both small and large appetites, for meat lovers and vegans. Almost all ingredients come from local suppliers in the immediate vicinity.
  • A wooden house is ring-hearted. That's why employees and guests at Chalet Arva celebrate the mountain quiet at 22:00. Everyone should be able to get a good night's sleep.

Warm Welcome

We look forward to your call or e-mail. 

Chalet Arva
Located directly at Oeschinensee
Tel: +41 33 675 11 66
info@arva-oeschinensee.ch
www.arva-oeschinensee.ch 

Book a room
Click here for the reservation

SAC huts in the Oeschinensee area

If you decide to go on a multi-day hike, there are various accommodation options. Whether as a day or overnight guest, as a family, sportsman or pleasure hiker - there is something for everyone to experience in and around the SAC huts in the region and sleep is twice as restful in the cool mountain air.

Camping Rendez-Vous

The campsite is located in the tranquil mountain village of Kandersteg at 1200 m above sea level, in the midst of an enchanting mountain world.

The campsite is laid out in terraces on a slope. In summer you stay right next to the hiking trails, in winter right next to the cross-country ski trails.

Throughout the course you have a priceless view of the fascinating Kandersteg mountains.

We look forward to your visit!

Camping and tenting is possible at the Rendez-Vous campsite. The campsite can also be booked by motorhome.

The campsite
Discover now

Book a pitch
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Code in the Bernese Oberland
Camper Code 

  • In the camping store you will find a small selection of groceries and fresh bread every morning.
  • Gas and camping gas is available on site.
  • Sanitary facilities and children's playground available.
  • Barbecue hut "Finel", lounge "Stall".
  • The Rendez-vous restaurant, right next to the campsite, serves traditional Swiss cuisine.
  • WLAN access for all guests.
  • Disposal station.

    ... and much more can be found on our campsite.

Our friendly reception team is always happy to receive your call or e-mail.

Camping Rendez-vous
Hubleweg
3718 Kandersteg
info@camping-kandersteg.ch
www.camping-kandersteg.ch
+41 33 675 15 34

We want to give you new feel-good moments every day that will put a smile on your face.

That's why we are there for you all year round!

Pitch
Nordic Arena (Kandersteg)
LEARN MORE
Pitch
Schützenhaus (Kandersteg)
Pitch
Bären (near Cable car Sunnbühl)
Camping
Frutigresort (Frutigen)
Learn more

Pitches Kandersteg

  • There are no parking spaces available for campers at the valley station of the Cable car , as the entrance height is limited to a maximum of 2 meters.
  • Parking for campers: Official parking spaces and campgrounds, or the Schützenhaus parking lot. Camping is permitted exclusively at the Rendez-Vous campground near the valley station (open year-round).
  • Parking spaces are available at the ski jump (Nordic Arena), the Schützenhaus and the Bären (near the Sunnbühl cable car).
  • Frutigen is also home to the Frutigresort campsite.
Outdoor Guidelines

The entire area at Oeschinensee consists of individual protection zones, such as the plant conservation area, UNESCO World Heritage Site, dry meadows and wildlife rest areas. 

  • Wild camping and overnight stays in the great outdoors are prohibited.
  • Overnight stays in the area Camping, bivouacking and spending the night in hammocks or similar is prohibited by law.
  • Wild animals Wild animals must not be disturbed at night.  
  • Vehicles Unauthorized vehicles have no access to Oeschinensee.
  • Night's rest The rule of night rest applies (from 22:00).
  • Rangers Rangers are deployed to ensure compliance with the Outdoor Guidelines. 

Enjoy, feel the nature.

FAQ

What you should know.

Gastronomy / Overnight stay

Where can I find snacks or something to eat in the Oeschinensee area?

If you’re feeling a little peckish or hungry, you’ll find Oeschinensee selection of hot and cold snacks, as well as a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, at the kiosk and the café-bar located right on the shore of Oeschinensee at the upper station ofOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland.

Is there accommodation available at Oeschinensee ?

During the summer season, the only place to stay overnight in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland is Chalet Arva ; reservations are required. Three SAC huts offer additional lodging options in Oeschinensee. Camping is permitted exclusively at the Rendez-Vous campground near the valley station or at the ski jump (open year-round). There are also various campsites in Kandersteg.

What dining options are available in the Oeschinensee area?

In the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, there are several dining options available. These include the Oeschinensee Mountain Restaurant Oeschinensee Chalet Arva (both near the lake) as well as the Bergstübli at the mountain station. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of food and drinks while taking in the magnificent views of the mountain landscape. See what’s on offer.

Which SAC huts are located in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg (Bernese Oberland)?

The SAC Doldenhorn Hut, the SAC Blüemlisal Hut, and the SAC Fründen Hut are located in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland.

What dining options are available for groups in the Oeschinensee area?

Inquiries about group packages at Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland can be directed to oeschinensee. At our mountain restaurant, located directly on the shores of Lake Oeschinen, we offer special group menus that can be enjoyed both indoors in the cozy mountain parlor and outdoors on the sunny terrace. A seminar room and a terrace are also available.

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Arrival and parking

Where can I park? Is it possible to reserve a parking space?

Parking in Kandersteg is limited on weekends and during the summer. Starting around 12:00 PM, parking spaces may no longer be available—we recommend arriving early. ParkingOeschinensee available for guests at theOeschinensee Cable car valley station from 6:00 AM until evening. Hikers heading to Oeschinensee should use the hiking parking lots in the village (lower hiking parking rates). No vehicles are permitted to enter at night. Vehicle access is limited to a maximum length of 5 meters and a height of 2 meters. Paid parking spaces and parking spots for larger vehicles are located in the village and near the Schützenhaus. Parking spaces cannot be reserved in advance.

Can you reach the shore of Lake Oeschinen by car?

No. The private road leading to the shore of Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland is closed to all motorized traffic and bicycles. Oeschinensee reached by car, e-bike, mountain bike, or any other vehicle. Instead, take theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee hike to the lake shore in about 90 minutes.

How do you get from the mountain station to the shore of Lake Oeschinen?

Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland is about a 30-minute walk away, and the path is easily accessible even with a stroller. During the summer season,Oeschinensee electric taxi operates from the top station of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car every half hour, or more frequently if needed when capacity is full, to the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee the lake shore and back. Guests with limited mobility have priority on the electric taxi.

How do I get to theOeschinensee Cable car by train (public transportation)?

You can easily reach Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland by train from Spiez and Brig. From Adelboden and Frutigen, a bus (AFA) runs to Kandersteg. The walk from the train station to the valley station of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee about 10–15 minutes. From June to October, a local bus also runs between the train station and the valley station for every train arrival and departure.

Where can campers, RVs, and similar vehicles park in Kandersteg?

There are no parking spaces available for campers at theOeschinensee Cable car valley stationOeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, as the maximum vehicle height is limited to 2 meters. Additional parking options for larger vehicles are available at the Sunnbüel valley station. Parking spaces are available at the Nordic Arena and at the Bären (near Sunnbüel), among other locations. Parking spaces with no height restrictions are located at the Schützenhaus.

Are there charging stations for electric cars at theOeschinensee Cable car ?

There are eight 11-kW electric vehicle charging stations available in the “P2” parking lot at the lower station of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland. You can enter the lot even when it is full—simply press the button on the entry gate. Charging cables can be borrowed at the ticket office.

What outdoor guidelines apply to cycling in the Oeschinensee area?

Cycling of any kind is prohibited in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Out of consideration for our guests, the natural environment, and for safety reasons, the Oeschinensee can Oeschinensee be visited on foot. There is a court-ordered ban on cycling (mountain biking, e-biking, etc.). In addition, many forest trails pass through ecologically sensitive areas where rare and shy wildlife find refuge and quiet zones.

Where can tour busesOeschinensee at theOeschinensee Cable car ?

There are no parking spaces for tour buses at the lower station ofOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland; these are located at various spots throughout the village. At the lower station, buses are only permitted to make a brief stop at the bus stop for loading and unloading. For group reservations, a parking space will be assigned to the group leader.

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Ticket booking

What are the benefits of booking online with theOeschinensee Cable car ?

You can purchase your ticket for theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland, online in the ticket shop. The ticket includes a time slot reservation for your ascent. You’ll enjoy a stress-free journey without long wait times at the valley station. If your plans change, you can reschedule your time slot free of charge. For more information and tickets, visit the ticket shop.

Can a Cable car be changed to an earlier date using a boarding pass?

It is not possible to reschedule your ticket online for an earlier date with the Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland. In justified exceptional cases, please contact the Cable caroeschinensee Helpdesk oeschinensee. Ticket exchanges can only be made in person at the Information Center at the lower station in Kandersteg.

Can an online reservation for the gondola ride be rescheduled or canceled?

Yes, starting from the ticket’s validity date, you can rebook your ticket for theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland, free of charge and online via the Ticket Shop for a later date, provided seats are available. The link is included in the email with your ticket; cancellations are not possible. For more information, please visit the Ticket Shop online.

Is a combo ticket (Cable car Oeschinensee) available?

The Cable car Oeschinensee Bernese Oberland is currently not operating.

How does the ticketing system for theOeschinensee Cable car work?

For a pleasant trip on theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, we recommend purchasing your ticket in advance online through our ticket shop. The time slot reservation included with your ticket purchase ensures you get a preferred time slot for the ascent you to enjoy a relaxed ride without long wait times. You can find more information directly in our ticket shop.

What booking options are available for the Cable car ride down?

Book your downhill ticket for theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg conveniently online—no time slot reservation is required for the downhill ride. For more information and tickets, please visit our ticket shop.

Can tickets for theOeschinensee Cable car beOeschinensee or refunded?

Cancellations or refunds for tickets for Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland are generally not permitted. In exceptional cases, a voucher for a future visit may be issued (Cable caroeschinensee). A processing fee of CHF 10 per booking may apply. Cash refunds are not permitted. Note: You may change your reservation to a different time slot within the current season up to three times free of charge.

How do IOeschinensee a voucher for theOeschinensee Cable car ?

Select the product you want from the online ticket shop of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland, and add it to your cart. During checkout, select “Add voucher” from the payment methods and enter your voucher code.

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Timetable and fares

What should I keep in mind when traveling with a group?

FAQ – Group reservations

How do I make a group reservation?

Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. This ensures that arrival, access, on-site coordination, and boarding within the designated time slot run smoothly.

Option A – Booking via our group booking tool

We recommend making your reservation through our online group reservation tool. There, you can register groups directly and coordinate your desired arrival time or time slot.

Advantage: Reservations are made directly through us and can be processed online.

Option B – Booking through SBB Group Service

Alternatively, group reservations can be made through SBB Group Services—at an SBB ticket counter or by phone through the SBB Contact Center.

Phone: 0848 44 66 88

Note: Group reservations for Oeschinensee not available online through SBB. The advantage of our group reservation tool is that it allows you to book directly online.

Option C – Group booking through the restaurant

When making a group reservation through the restaurant, there is no ascent a separate time slot reservation for ascent . However, a binding reservation with the restaurant is required.

Please direct any inquiries to: oeschinensee

What is the maximum size of a group?

The maximum group size is 80 people. Larger groups are generally not accommodated.

Special cases must be requested in advance at: Cable caroeschinensee

Is registration required?

Yes. You must register before making your first booking through our group reservation tool. Once you have successfully registered, you can make reservations.

What happens if you arrive without a reservation?

Group reservations are required. Groups without a prior reservation and without a valid time slot or confirmed booking cannot be accommodated.

In the event of heavy traffic, access may also be restricted or closed by traffic control. In this case, due to limited capacity, it will not be possible for the group to arrive or be transported.

Where can I find more information?

oeschinensee

Can I buy a ticket on-site at the valley station in Kandersteg?

We recommend purchasing your ticket for theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland, in advance at the ticket shop. Only a limited number of remaining tickets are available on-site at the ticket machines. Please note: Mountain trips can only be booked on-site if there are still seats available for the desired time slot. If the time slot is already fully booked, transportation is not possible. Further information is available directly at the ticket shop.

Do dogs ride theOeschinensee Cable car for free?

No, a one-day ticket for dogs on theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland costs CHF 8.00. The SBB dog pass is accepted.

How can IOeschinensee for theOeschinensee Cable car ?

At the ticket machines and ticket counter ofOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, you can pay with all major credit and debit cards as well as Twint. Cash and REKA checks are also accepted; however, payment with REKA checks is only possible at the ticket counter. For more information and tickets, please visit our online ticket shop.

Are the Student, Tandem, Community, or Friends day passes Cable car for the Cable car ?

No, SBB day passes are not valid for theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. You can receive a discount with a valid SBB GA, SBB Half-Fare Card, Swiss Travel Pass, or a guest card from Kandersteg, Kandergrund, Frutigen, Adelboden, or Reichenbach.

What are the transportation guidelines for bicycles, stand-up paddleboards, scooters, etc.?

TheOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Bernese Oberland does not transport bicycles, mountain bikes, children’s bikes, scooters, SUPs (stand-up paddleboards), or other sports equipment from the valley station in Kandersteg to the mountain station.

Is the Berner Oberland PassOeschinensee at theOeschinensee Cable car ?

No, starting in January 2026, the Berner Oberland Pass will no longer be accepted at theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, and there will be no discount on the gondola ride.

What are the benefits of the guest card for the gondola ride?

Guests with a guest card from Kandersteg, Adelboden, Frutigen, Kandergrund, and Reichenbach in the Bernese Oberland receive a 10% discount on theOeschinensee Cable car ride. You do not need to reserve a time slot (so-called boarding pass). Enter your guest card number here to receive discounts on mountain railway tickets in the ticket shop. The guest card is also accepted at the ticket machines on site (scan the QR code to use it).

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General information

Is Cable car reservation with a public transportation ticket required for the ascent Cable car ?

ReservationsOeschinensee for theOeschinensee Cable car .

Are you traveling to Oeschinensee with a valid public transportation ticket, such as one purchased via the SBB Mobile app? Please also reserve a time slot for the ascent.

Here's how to secure your ascent avoid waiting times. Without a reserved time slot, you may face longer wait times, especially on busy days.

Book a time slot for the ascent here ascent a valid public transportation ticket
Entry Procedure
• You must ascent your time slot reservation for the ascent at the first ticket scanner.
• You must present your valid public transportation ticket at the second ticket reader, e.g., in the SBB Mobile app.
• Guests without a valid time slot reservation cannot board directly at the terminal and must proceed to the information desk.
Important Information
• A parking discount ascent be granted without a reserved time slot for the ascent .
• If time slots are fully booked, transportation may not be available, or may only be available after a waiting period.

Is theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee ?

Yes, theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland is wheelchair-accessible and provides barrier-free access all the way to the mountain station. From there, during the summer season starting at 10:45 a.m., a paid electric taxi runs every half hour to the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee the lake shore and back; one wheelchair can be transported per trip.

Are Oeschinensee (such as weddings) permitted in the Oeschinensee area?

No, Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland 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 sanctuaries. Due to these special protective measures, all (commercial) events and drone flights are prohibited by court order. Compliance with these rules is monitored by park rangers.

Where Oeschinensee the restrooms Oeschinensee in the Oeschinensee area?

Public restrooms are located at the upper and lower stations, as well as at the mountain restaurant near the lake shore. Additional restrooms are available in Oeschinensee. Please avoid using the outdoors as a restroom. However, if you must use the “outdoor restroom,” please do not leave behind any paper, tissues, or wet wipes. For a sustainable Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland.

What accommodations are available for guests with limited mobility in the Oeschinensee area?

The public facilities in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland— Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car , lockers, restaurants, and restrooms—are accessible, as is the main hiking trail to Oeschinensee. A paid electric taxi takes guests, upon request, from the mountain station to the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee the lakeshore and back.

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Oeschinensee

We provide unique and unforgettable moments in the imposing mountain world in front of the Blüemlisalp massif.