🌊🏞️ Aare River Adventure in Bern: Swim, Float & Soak Up Swiss Summer Bliss!

#summervacay **📍 *Why the Aare?*** Bern’s **turquoise glacial river** is a UNESCO-listed playground where locals (and brave visitors!) swim, float, and picnic along its banks. With **crystal-clear water**, **riverside saunas**, and **alpine views**, it’s the ultimate Swiss summer escape. --- ### **🗓️ One-Day Itinerary: River Thrills & Old Town Chill** #### **Morning: Swim Like a Bernese** - **9:00 AM** – **Start at Eichholz** (main entry point) - Rent a **dry bag** (~CHF 10) and test the waters (cold but refreshing!). - 🏊 **Swim/Float Route**: 20-min downstream to **Freibad Marzili** (public pool). - *Pro Tip*: Follow the **red buoys**—never swim alone! #### **Midday: Riverside Picnic & Views** - **12:00 PM** – **Lunch at Altes Tramdepot** - Brewery with **Aare-facing terrace** (try *Berner Platte*—meat feast!). - **1:30 PM** – **Rose Garden (Rosengarten)** - Hike up for **postcard views** of Old Town + river bends. #### **Afternoon: Urban Beach & Sauna** - **3:00 PM** – **Freibad Marzili** - Sunbathe on the **grass "beach"** or dive off the 10m platform! - **4:30 PM** – **Lötschberg Sauna** - Wood-fired **riverside sauna** (book ahead; ~CHF 25). #### **Evening: Sunset Drinks & Old Town Stroll** - **6:30 PM** – **Kornhauskeller** - Dinner in a **Baroque granary** (order *rösti with cervelat*). - **8:00 PM** – **Nydeggbrücke Bridge** - Watch daredevils **jump into the Aare** at dusk! --- ### **🌞 Summer Highlights:** ✅ **Aare Swim Day (August)**: Giant floating party! ✅ **Stand-Up Paddleboarding**: Rent at **Kleine Schanze**. ✅ **BearPark Hangout**: Spot Bern’s mascots post-swim. --- ### **📌 Survival Guide:** - **Current Check**: Only swim if **water level < 300m³/s** (posted daily). - **Gear**: **Swim shoes** (rocky exits!) and a **floatie**. - **Safety**: Exit at **Freibad Marzili**—don’t miss it or you’ll hit weirs! **"The Aare isn’t just a river—it’s Bern’s liquid soul."** Ready to dive in? 🏊♂️