The Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht) Visitor's Guide Opening Hours, Prices, What to Expect

What is the Aare Gorge?

Carved by glacial meltwater over 10,000 years ago, the Aareschlucht in Meiringen stretches 1.4 km with cliffs up to 200 metres high. You walk along a secured wooden boardwalk drilled into the rock, passing tunnels and small bridges above the turquoise Aare river. The Aare Gorge is open from 3 April to 1 November 2026. Adult tickets cost CHF 13 and children aged 6–15.99 pay CHF 8. The 1.4 km walk along a wooden boardwalk takes 30–45 minutes one way and is suitable for families, with both entrances easily reached by car or train from Meiringen.

Aare Gorge Opening Hours (2026)

• West Entrance: 3 April – 1 November 2026
• East Entrance: 9 May – 1 November 2026
• Spring & Autumn: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
• Summer (13 June – 20 Sept): 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
• Evening illumination: Fridays & Saturdays, 3 July – 29 August, 6:30 pm – 10 pm

Aare Gorge Tickets & Prices

• Adults: CHF 13
• Children (6–15.99): CHF 8
• Under 6: Free
• Combined ticket with Reichenbach Falls: CHF 25 adults / CHF 16 kids

The Aareschlucht entrance fee is discounted 20% for Jungfrau Region guest pass holders and 30% for Bernese Oberland Pass holders.

How to Get There

By car, free parking is available at both entrances. By train, the Meiringen–Innertkirchen line stops directly at "Aareschlucht West" and "Aareschlucht Ost." From Interlaken, it's about an hour by train.

What to Expect on Your Visit

Expect a cool, shaded walk along a safe, railed boardwalk. Wear closed shoes with grip, bring a light jacket, and allow extra time for kids to explore the Tatzi Trail. Dogs on a leash are welcome, and both entrances have restaurants with terraces.

Stay Nearby at Hotel Rebstock

The Aare Gorge is one of the highlights of any trip to the Bernese Oberland, and staying close by makes the experience even better. Hotel Rebstock in Meiringen offers a warm, traditional Swiss welcome just minutes from the Aareschlucht, with comfortable rooms, regional cuisine, and easy access to nearby attractions like Reichenbach Falls and the Sherlock Holmes Museum making it a perfect base for exploring the gorge and the surrounding Haslital valley.

Book Your Stay Near Aare Gorge at the Best Available Rate

Exploring the Aare Gorge is even more convenient when you stay in Meiringen, close to the region's most beautiful natural attractions. Hotel Rebstock provides a comfortable base for couples, families, and solo travellers planning to discover the Aareschlucht, Reichenbach Falls, and the stunning Haslital Valley. Instead of travelling long distances from other Swiss cities, visitors can enjoy a relaxed itinerary with more time for sightseeing. For accommodation options, room availability, and direct booking offers, visit the official Hotel Rebstock booking page and plan your stay near Aare Gorge.

Explore Hasliberg Skiing During Your Winter Visit

Although the Aare Gorge is a seasonal attraction and closes during winter, the surrounding Meiringen–Hasliberg region remains an excellent destination for Alpine adventures. Travellers visiting during the colder months can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, scenic mountain landscapes, and winter activities in the Swiss Alps. Hotel Rebstock in Meiringen offers a convenient starting point for exploring the Hasliberg ski area while enjoying the charm of a traditional Swiss mountain town. If you're planning a winter holiday, explore the hotel's Hasliberg ski booking options to find accommodation information and plan your ski getaway.

Final Thoughts

This Aare Gorge visitor guide gives you everything you need to plan a smooth, memorable visit. The Aareschlucht is affordable, easy to reach, and genuinely breathtaking. Visit between late May and early October, arrive early, and pair it with Reichenbach Falls for a perfect half-day in the Swiss Alps.