HIGHTIDE KAYAK SCHOOL | Kayak Tours on Lake Brienz | Kayak Rentals | British Canoeing Certified Coaching & Courses

Imagine gliding across the mirror-like turquoise surface of a lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks. Kayak tours on Lake Brienz, organized by the professional Hightide Kayak School, are one of the most vivid experiences Interlaken has to offer. The school's base is located in the cozy village of Bönigen and serves as a true gateway to the world of water adventures in the heart of Switzerland.

This place is rightfully considered unique as it allows you to see the Bernese Oberland Alps from an unusual perspective inaccessible to hikers. The school offers not only classic tours but also certified courses and SUP board rentals. Lake Brienz is famous for its incredible water color and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for both first-timers and advanced training.

One of the tours' highlights is that they run year-round. Even in winter, dressed in special drysuits, travelers can enjoy the silence and mystical beauty of sleeping nature. The school's high rating and family atmosphere guarantee a personal touch for every guest, turning a simple outing into an unforgettable event.

To clarify booking details or equipment rental, you can contact the school directly. All necessary information is provided below:

The main reason to visit Hightide Kayak School is the chance to feel complete harmony with nature, rhythmically paddling against a backdrop of grandiose cliffs. You can choose a guided tour lasting up to 4 hours, during which experienced instructors will lead you to the most picturesque corners of the lake, including the famous Giessbach waterfall. During the trip, guides often take professional photos and videos so you leave with high-quality shots as well as memories.

For those who value freedom, kayak and SUP rentals are available without prior booking—just head to the base for instructions. Beyond standard trips, the school offers unique formats: night tours under the starlit sky and atmospheric winter outings. After active paddling, groups often take a break for tea and cookies right on the water or by the shore, discussing interesting facts about the local landscape.

All necessary equipment, including life jackets, spray skirts, and drysuits for the colder months, is provided on-site. Programs are designed for all skill levels: from family outings with children to serious paddling technique training. It’s a great way to recharge, get an adrenaline rush, or simply enjoy the silence away from busy tourist trails.

The kayaking base is located in the picturesque town of Bönigen, just a few kilometers from the heart of the tourist hub. The easiest way to get there from Interlaken is by bus (local line to Bönigen); the journey takes very little time. If you prefer walking or cycling, the route from Interlaken Ost railway station takes about 10–15 minutes along the lakeshore.

For those traveling by car, the drive takes no more than 10 minutes, and parking is available on-site. If you are arriving from other cities in Switzerland, such as Zurich or Basel, you should first take a train to Interlaken Ost station and then use local transport or a taxi.

The starting point is easy to find by using coordinates or looking for the lake promenade. In summer, the walk to the school is a pleasure in itself, thanks to the stunning views of the surrounding Alps and the calm surface of the water.

Hightide Kayak School is a family-run business born from its founders' passion for the water. The school's co-founder, Dave, is still personally involved in the center's daily life, welcoming guests and leading training sessions. Since its establishment in the 2010s, the school has earned a reputation as the leading kayaking expert in the Bernese Oberland region.

A major milestone in the school's development was achieving British Canoeing certification. This ensures the highest level of safety and professionalism from instructors, which is particularly important for training beginners and leading serious expeditions. The school focuses on a personalized approach, setting it apart from large commercial centers.

Over the years, the project has evolved from a local rental shop into a full-fledged educational center. They offer not only lake tours but also coaching in sea and river kayaking, drawing on the team's experience from ocean expeditions. This place combines Swiss hospitality traditions with international water sports standards.

For a standard introduction to kayaking on Lake Brienz, most tourists need between 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time for a full guided tour, which includes a briefing, the paddle itself, and short stops for photos.

If you plan to rent equipment for independent exploration of the shoreline or sign up for a specialized training course, it's worth setting aside at least half a day. Short two-hour sessions are perfect for those who want to enjoy the views without rushing but have a tight travel schedule.

The school is open daily, giving tourists the chance to choose a convenient time for their activities. Standard opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Please note that the tour schedule may depend on weather conditions and the season. In winter months or during unfavorable forecasts, departure times may change, so it is recommended to check the current schedule on the official website or call ahead before your visit.

After your active time on the water, it's worth taking a moment to explore the surrounding area. The region around Lake Brienz is rich in historical ruins, castles, and picturesque monuments that allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this part of Switzerland.

A stroll through the nearby villages will reveal old churches and remains of ancient fortifications harmoniously integrated into the mountain landscape. Below are interesting sites located nearby: