Oberhofen Castle

Stroll through the beautiful castle grounds and enjoy views of Lake Thun. Explore the museum within the romantic castle complex, which brings the history of former residents to life. At the top of the tower is an oriental smoking lounge, which commands stunning views of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
 
Oberhofen Castle is situated on the banks of Lake Thun. The picturesque castle complex with a keep dating from circa 1200 has a colourful history. The castle gained its present appearance after it was bought by the Neuchâtel-Prussian aristocratic family de Pourtalès in 1844 and converted into a summer residence. A museum devoted to the stories of former residents was established inside the castle in 1954. The absorbing exhibitions are worth a visit, whatever the weather. Tours of the castle and the grounds can also be booked.

Flower-filled grounds

Walk between the vibrant blooms and through the conifers, deciduous trees and exotic redwoods of the park; there is even a unique pergola of hornbeams. Discover the gardener’s lodge and the chalet for children of the aristocracy. Today kids can use a play area in the gravel court near the pergola surrounded by lime trees. The castle grounds are a beautifully landscaped English park with stunning views of the Bernese Alps. The mild climate makes this one of the loveliest gardens in the Bernese Oberland.

Historic venue for special occasions

From weddings and family celebrations to seminars and company events, dreams come true at Oberhofen Castle. Imagine holding a seminar over the water in the lake turret, or a wedding in the 15th-century castle chapel with the impressive murals. The historic premises of the garden room and dining hall can be rented together with the castle terrace.

Fun for kids

Oberhofen Castle is a family-friendly destination for young and old alike. It offers a variety of activities especially for kids aged between 4 and 10, including dressing up, the "mouse trail", fairy tale listening station and the knights’ trail. In the park, beneath the lime trees, there is also a space with swings and a toy box. At the castle gates is a public playground, which can also be accessed outside of museum opening times. Over at the kids’ chalet, in the book corner, countless stories are waiting to be discovered. At Oberhofen Castle, little princesses and knights can also celebrate their birthday in unique style. A discovery tour of guessing games distributed throughout the castle, followed by eating cake, will have kids jumping for joy.

Photo opportunity: Oriental smoking lounge

The oriental smoking lounge in the top of the tower promises spectacular views of Lake Thun and the mountains. Pose in the lounge, or capture the superb view on your camera.

Your highlights at a glance

• Magnificent landscaped park and romantic grounds by Lake Thun
• Oriental smoking lounge in the tower
• Destination not dependent on the weather
• Lake turret for individual occasions

To ensure that your trip is perfect in every way, please note

• The castle opens from mid-May to mid-October
• Check the opening times of the museum, restaurant and grounds in advance
• The lakeside path opens from March to mid-December
• Combine your excursion with a boat trip