Eichholz

Imagine a perfect oasis of tranquility just a short walk from the bustling city center. Eichholz is more than just a beach; it is a favorite getaway for residents of Bern, located on the picturesque banks of the Aare River. Nestled in the cozy Köniz district, this spot combines a spacious green area, a well-equipped campsite, and easy access to the water.

Eichholz. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This location in Switzerland is famous for its laid-back atmosphere. Here, you'll find families with children playing on shaded lawns and swimmers choosing Eichholz for its shallow sandy entry points into the river—a rarity for mountain-fed waters. The beach area is beautifully maintained, offering wonderful views of the Aare's current and the surrounding forests.

Beyond swimming, Eichholz serves as a fully-fledged city campsite that can accommodate up to 300 tents. Although technically on the outskirts, it is considered an essential part of Bern's summer life, offering tourists the chance to feel like a local enjoying nature in the heart of Europe.

To clarify details for your stay or to book a spot at the campsite, you can use the following contact information:

The main draw of this place is the Aare River. During the warmer months, taking a dip or simply watching the swift current carry swimmers past is a must. Thanks to its sandy bottom and shallow waters near the shore, Eichholz is considered one of the safest spots to enter the river, making it very popular with families.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are vast green lawns. It's an ideal space for picnics, games of frisbee, or simply reading a book in the shade of ancient trees. Children will love the modern playground, while outdoor enthusiasts can make use of the barbecue areas.

If you're looking for a deeper immersion in nature, you can stay at the local campsite. Even if you don't plan on sleeping in a tent, it's worth taking a walk along the shoreline—footpaths lead to other interesting parts of the city, allowing you to combine a beach day with a tour of cultural monuments in a single stroll.

Getting to this scenic spot from the city center is surprisingly easy. The most pleasant and popular way is a walk along the banks of the Aare. The journey from the historical center takes only about 20 minutes: simply cross the bridge and follow the river's flow while enjoying views of the Old Town.

If you prefer public transport, take a bus heading toward the Köniz district. Get off at the stop nearest to Strandweg 45, and it's just a short walk of a few hundred meters. For those traveling by car, parking is available next to the campsite.

Thanks to its great location, a visit here is easy to combine with other iconic sites like the Bear Pit or the Paul Klee Center, which are within a 30–40 minute stroll along well-maintained paths.

While the Eichholz complex itself is seen as a modern recreation area, its history is closely tied to the centuries-old tradition of Bern locals spending time by the Aare. Swimming in the river's icy waters isn't just fun; it's a true cultural trait of the region, which is even included on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Köniz area, where the beach is located, historically served as a green buffer zone for the city. Over time, simple riverside paths transformed into a well-appointed recreational zone, while preserving its natural landscape and the many old trees that provide much-needed shade on hot summer days.

Interestingly, despite being formally outside Bern's city limits, this space is so integrated into the life of the residents that it's perceived as the capital's main "home" beach. It is a unique example of how urban infrastructure and wilderness can coexist harmoniously for decades.

To fully soak up the atmosphere, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time for a leisurely walk from the center, a small picnic on the grass, and a refreshing swim in the river.

If you plan to have a full barbecue lunch or are visiting with children, you can comfortably spend the entire day here. Given its proximity to major attractions, many tourists like to drop by in the afternoon to relax in the shade of the trees after a busy sightseeing schedule.

The Eichholz recreation area is open around the clock. You can visit any day of the week, as it operates 24/7 (Monday – Sunday). This allows you to enjoy both early sunrises by the water and quiet evening walks under the starry sky.

A visit to the banks of the Aare can easily be turned into a full tourist itinerary, as some of the city's most important symbols are within a couple of kilometers. Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to see the contrast between peaceful natural relaxation and the grandeur of historic architecture.