Oeschinensee Panorama Hike
A Breathtaking Trail Above Switzerland’s Bluest LakeOne of my favourite hikes is the Oeschinensee Panorama Hike. Why? Because the scenery around this alpine lake is absolutely mind-blowing. Every twist and turn reveals a fresh postcard-worthy view. From the vibrant turquoise of the lake, to the enormous mountains towering above you and cascading waterfalls. This hike deserves a spot on your Switzerland bucket list.
🗓 Last updated: 20 Nov 2025
📍 Oeschinensee hike - Panorama trail, in Kandersteg
Oeschinensee Panoramic loop trail
📍Kandersteg • 📊 Moderate • ⏰ 3.5 h • 🥾 8.5 k • ⬆️ 430 • ⬇️ 430
The Oeschinensee Panorama Hike is pure alpine magic. I highly recommend hiking the panoramic loop trail, because from this trail you have epic views of the super blue lake and the enormous mountains the entire way. The breathtaking views from Heuberg viewpoint, create an unforgettable backdrop for photography and exploration.
This hike is ideal for those with hiking experience who aren't afraid of heights. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trail includes steep climbs and plenty of uneven ground with loose rocks.
This beautiful spot is really popular, so make sure to book your cable car ticket in advance. Get ready for a jaw-dropping hike you won’t forget!
Quick info
| Oeschinensee Panorama Hike | |
|---|---|
📍Location: |
Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland, Switzerland |
🚠 Starting Point: |
at the top of the Oeschinen Cable Car (Oeschinenbahn): Öschistrasse 50, 3718 Kandersteg |
🥾 Trail: |
3 hours | Loop |
📏 Distance: |
8,5 km loop | ⬇️ Hiking map |
💪 Difficulty: |
moderate | 430m up & down |
🏔️ Conditions: |
some steep and exposed sections, but well-marked and safe |
🕓 Best time to go: |
June to October (when the cable car and mountain trails are open) |
🍽️ Tip: |
book your cable car ticket in advance |
Gallery
Oeschinensee
Oeschinensee is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site—please honour it by following Leave No Trace principles. Take only memories, leave only footprints. Respect wildlife, dispose of waste properly, and keep this natural gem pristine for all to enjoy.
Trail overview
The Oeschinensee Panorama Trail (number 8 on the map) begins at the top of the cable car in Kandersteg (Oeschinenbahn), which provides easy access to the trailhead.
You will hike uphill above the lake (where the colours of the lake pop!) and you will eventually loop back down to the lakeshore.
Facilities: There are picnic areas around the lake, and visitors can find restaurants (toilets) near the cable car station for a post-hike meal or snack.
Source: https://www.oeschinensee.ch/en/
Trail description
To get to the trailhead of the Panorama Trail, take the cable car from Kandersteg up the mountain.
From there, start your hike by following signs marked “Läger/Oeschinensee”. After about 400 meters, there are more yellow signs. Take a left onto the narrow mountain path, following the signs “Heuberg – Ober Bärgli”.
Climb to the Heuberg viewpoint, then continue along the trail to “Ober Bärgli Hut”. From there, fork right toward “Unterbergli” and descend back to the lake.
🍽️ Tip:
Enjoy a mid-hike meal or drink with epic views at the Berghaus Unterbärgli (cash only).
Enjoy a post-hike meal or drink at the Berghotel Oeschinensee by the lake (toilets).
Hiking map
Here’s the Panorama Loop trail map. Use this map on Komoot for an easy, interactive guide with GPS tracking.
Oeschinensee Panorama Hike Map | Source map Komoot
Check out the trail map on Oeschinensee | SchweizMobil | Komoot | AllTrails.
The colour of Lake Oeschinensee
It is good to know that the colour of this lake might change from the beginning of the hike until the top (this was the case when we were here). The lake itself boasts a striking turquoise colour, thanks to glacial meltwater feeding into it.
At first, it appears greyish blue (when we stood right at the lake), but then it gets more colourful when you get up the mountain. Until finally it appears this vivid turquoise.
Trail conditions
This challenging mountain trail is perfect for experienced hikers (children 7+) comfortable with heights. Expect narrow, rocky paths with uneven terrain and steep slopes that drop off sharply without safety rails.
Proper footwear is recommended. During spring and early autumn, some sections may be muddy or have snow, so be cautious.
Shorter trail option
There’s also a shorter, easier way to soak in the beauty of this stunning lake. When my parents came to visit, we kept it simple: just a walk to the lake and a gentle stroll up the hill. The Panoramic Loop Trail felt too challenging, so I picked this more relaxed route.
Shorter trail description
We headed to Berghotel Oeschinensee to take in the views and savour a cup of coffee. Then, we wandered along the lakeshore, climbing up to the waterfall.
After a delicious lunch there, we made our way back down and enjoyed some playful time around the lake with the dog Roxy.
My parents absolutely loved this little adventure, and we had an unforgettable day together!
How to get to Oeschinensee
This breathtaking alpine lake is located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Nestled at an elevation of about 1,578 meters (5,177 feet) above sea level, this stunning gem is situated near the town of Kandersteg. From there take the cable car up the mountain.
By public transport
Reaching Oeschinensee is simple. From Zurich, Bern, or Interlaken, trains run frequently to Kandersteg. From the station, it’s a short walk or bus ride to the Oeschinensee cable car.
By car
If you’re driving, parking is available directly at the valley station. Although this can be busy, so make sure to have more parking options available, such as parking at the train station and walk from there.
Useful Links & Resources
Photo tip
It is not surprising why this is a popular photo spot. The view of the turquoise Oeschinensee combined with the two evergreen pinetrees is magnificent 😍. Would you like to take photos here 💯?
To get to this spot you have 2 options:
You can do the panoramic loop trail as described above. On your way down (after the Heuberg viewpoint), you will see this spot appearing on your right site. This hike is more challenging (and takes more time), but you will also have more epic views than option number 2. Definitely worth it!
If you do not have a lot of time or might want a easier hike, you can start at the Berghaus Unterbärgli. From there you can hike up to this spot in about 30 minutes. This is more relaxed, but will also show you the beauty of the lake and the insane colours. Also a good option.
Please let me know in the comments below if you have any questions 😊.
Tips for hiking
We forgot a few things when we did this hike, like wearing a hat, clothes that are not too hot and taking enough water. Whoops. So note to self and some tips for you for this hike:
Start early to avoid the heat of the day and the crowds.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Layered clothing (mountain weather changes quickly)
Bring swimwear for a dip in the lake after the hike.
Water and snacks
Suncreen, sunglasses & hat.
Don’t forget your camera; the views are Instagram-worthy!
Use the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace
Drones are not aloud in order to protect the wildlife and nature. Thank you for respecting this.
If Switzerland is on your travel list, don’t miss the Oeschinensee Panorama Hike. It’s one of those rare places that looks unreal — and feels even better in person.
Save this post so Oeschinensee makes it onto your Switzerland bucket list.
Let me know if you have any questions in the comments down below. Thank you! And last but not least:
Enjoy the hike and the epic views! Love Joyce
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