Merligen on Lake Thun: Circular Trails, Water and Local History

Merligen lies on the eastern shore of Lake Thun, in a wide bay and right at the entrance to the Justistal valley. The lake shapes the stay, as do the paths and the village’s character. When planning your visit, you can choose between short circular trails, activities on the water and longer hikes.

Getting to Merligen and finding your way around

Until the mid-19th century, Merligen could only be reached by boat or via a pack trail through Sigriswil. The road along the eastern shore from Gunten to Merligen has been continuously passable since the 1880s. Today, the village is served by STI bus route 21, and there is a BLS boat landing on Lake Thun. Check the current timetables when planning your journey.

The official tourist office is in a wooden chalet in the village centre, right on the Way of St. James. There you can get hiking maps and suggested routes for the region. The office can also help with timetable information and finding accommodation.

Circular trails and hiking

The Tierliweg is a family-friendly circular trail through the Merligen forest. Along the way, you can discover 15 different animal species; the trail also offers interesting facts about them. The starting and finishing point is the “Opeten” picnic area above Merligen. Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for the loop.

The “Opeten” picnic area has 40 covered and 40 uncovered seats, two barbecue spots, a drinking-water fountain and toilet facilities. If you are relying on these amenities, check the latest information before your visit.

The “Fuchseren” circular trail focuses on the former extraction of limestone and its transportation. It passes the church in Merligen and continues to “Fuchsere” and “Gärbe”; the entire route takes about 90 minutes. This makes the difference in duration clear: allow about 30 to 60 minutes for the Tierliweg and around 90 minutes in total for the “Fuchseren”.

For a longer hike, consider the Interlaken-to-Merligen section of the Bernese Oberland Trail: it ends in Merligen, is 12.89 kilometres long and is rated moderate. This section is part of the Swiss Way of St. James routes.

Lake Thun, the lido and activities

Activities available on Lake Thun in Merligen include diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and swimming. The lido is set against a mountain panorama and a distinctive natural backdrop. Its facilities include a children’s pool, a bistro serving hot and cold food, a sandpit and a table-tennis table. If a particular activity is essential to your stay, check the latest information in advance.

Boat Tour Interlaken is based in Merligen and offers private boat trips on Lake Thun. Its offerings include five sightseeing tours, including trips to medieval castles and romantic bays. These add excursions with a range of sightseeing themes to the activities available on the water.

The village and Merligen Church

Merligen is a former commercial and farming village. The rows of buildings along the lakeshore give the village a distinctive setting. Merligen Church stands on a rocky outcrop above Lake Thun and is considered a local landmark. Its south wall has four large stained-glass windows, and frescoes can be seen on the choir wall.

The church’s construction history also shapes its character: Thun architect Jacques Wipf built it in 1936/37 using local Balmholz rubble stone. The Balmholz stone gives the church its character.

An October event and other activities

The “Kulinarischer MerligerCher” is scheduled for 10 October 2026. Local products and specialities will be offered at eight different stations. The event begins in small groups at the lakeside terrace; a short boat trip is planned. Check the latest event information before travelling.

The tennis court is also located above the village, in a wooded setting. You can reach it on foot or by car; parking is available just above the facility. As booking and seasonal information can change, it is advisable to check before planning a game.

Discover more destinations: Gunten.

Go to the main travel overview: Sigriswil.