As soon as the temperatures rise, the people of Thun and Bern flock to and on the Aare. In addition to swimming in the Aare, the "Aareböötle" (boat trip on the Aare) is a regular experience for many. You could almost say it's part of the region's culture to be transported from Thun to Bern by boat at the weekend.

‍

Here you will find the most important information about the "Aareböötle".

‍

In which months can you "Aareböötle"?

The summer months from June to August are the best time. It is recommended when the Aare is at least 16 degrees.

Check the water temperature of the Aare (LINK: Water temperature)

‍

Is it required to have my own boat?

You don't have to own a boat if you want to venture out on the Aare as a captain. There are various providers who rent out boats for one-time use in various sizes (from 2 to 14 people). (LINK: Aareschlauchboot.ch)

The practical:

The boat is handed over directly at the boarding point, the boat is already ready for use and the necessary equipment (such as paddle, pump, life jackets and dry bag) is usually included in the price.

‍

The entry

The journey from Thun to Bern takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. The journey time depends on the water level and the draught of the Aare. The distance is about 25 kilometres.

There are two boarding points in Thun: Schwäbis and Uttigen.

The Schwäbis entry point is only recommended for experienced "Aareböötler", as shortly after the entry point there is a somewhat tricky section, the Uttiger Schwelle.

‍

On the road

Enjoy the wonderful nature around the Aare, from the jungle book feeling to small secluded sandy beaches, it's all here. Things are usually a bit wilder on the Aare. Especially at weekends, many Bernese make the pilgrimage to Thun to return to Bern by boat. It's not usually quiet there. On many boats, music is played, people laugh and fool around. Don't be surprised if you spot someone on the Aare who is not in a boat but on a pink flamingo.

‍

Barbecue on the road

There are various secluded spots, islands and beaches with fireplaces along the Aare. So be sure to pack some food and take a break along the way. To do this, tie the boat to a tree or pull it ashore.

‍

Attention bridges

The trip from Thun to Bern will feel like two days' holiday. You can let your hair down and cool off in the cold water if it gets too hot (attention only for experienced swimmers). But there are also various bridges on the route, so a little more action comes into play. Pass the bridge piers in the middle of the Aare, between the bridge piers.

‍

Ditching

Getting out of the water by boat is a little more difficult than getting in. For inexperienced "Aareböötler" we recommend leaving the Aare with the boat at the Flussbad Camping Eichholz. The Eichholz Flussbad has a long pebble beach. This can be seen early on after a large left-hand bend and you can comfortably paddle to the beach and get the boat out.

Experienced "Aareböötler" can also leave the Aare by boat 10 minutes later at Marzilibad (LINK: Marzili). However, the exit is only possible via a staircase, which makes it much more difficult to get out of the water.

But beware: this is the last possible exit point! This is followed by a weir. At Marzilibad, signs indicate that this is the last chance for the "Aareböötler" to get out.

How do I need to prepare?

• Planning an excursion: At the weekend, when the weather is good, there are a lot of boats on the Aare. If you don't like that and want to have your peace and quiet, you should rather take the boat on the Aare during the week.
• Allow time: A trip from Thun to Bern takes between 2 and 4 hours. Depending on the power of the Aare and the breaks taken. And bear in mind that you have to get back to Thun from Bern. There is a train for this. To the timetable (Link: SBB- Timetable)
• Check the weather! In extremely hot weather (especially during midday) it can be dangerous. But thunderstorms are also very dangerous. Therefore, be sure to check the weather beforehand! To the weather forecasts (Link: Weather)
• Also check how warm the Aare is and how high the water level is. Check temperature & water level (Link: Temperature and water level)

‍

Guidelines Water level:

100 - 180m3/s: Suitable for "Aareböötle

180 - 230m3/s: Suitable for "Aareböötle" but caution is advised!

From 230m3/s: Not suitable for "Aareböötle"!

‍

What do I need to take with me?

• Boat: Either your own (with your own equipment) or a rented one.
• Life jacket (One life jacket per person or one life ring per boat)
• Swimwear
• Sun cream and sun hat
• Dry bag (so that your clothes do not get wet)
• Bath towel
• Drinks (alcohol is allowed in masses on the Aare)
• Catering: Either for eating on the boat or barbecuing en route. There are various small islands and beaches with barbecue sites on the route from Thun to Bern. It is also possible to barbecue after getting off the boat at the Eichholz river baths. There are many barbecue sites, but there are usually also many barbecue enthusiasts.

‍

Do I have to wear a life jacket on the boat?

One life jacket per passenger is required on the boat (wearing is optional). The jacket must include a collar and provide at least 70nm of buoyancy. Those who do not comply may be fined.

Security

"Aareböötle" is fun, but also involves some risks. The most important facts at a glance:

• The "Aareböötle" is only recommended for experienced swimmers.
• The specified payload of the boat must not be exceeded.
• Boats must not be tied together.
• Label your dinghy with your name and address.
• One person should always remain on the boat.
• If possible, do not drive too close to the shore - there are stones and hanging bushes and branches.

‍

Guided "Aareböötle" boat trip

Those who do not want to go independently by boat on the Aare can also book a guided boat trip on the beautiful Aare. The offer is also suitable for groups of up to 150 people. Here you can find the offers.

Legal information

The floodplain landscapes along the Aare are particularly sensitive eco-systems. For this reason, almost the entire river landscape between Thun and Bern is protected. We ask everyone who is in or near the Aare to take care of nature, not to leave litter lying around and not to disturb the animals unnecessarily.

‍