Aare River

The Aare is the longest river that entirely belongs to Switzerland. It starts from the Oberaar glacier in the eastern Bernese Alps, flows through Brienz and Thun lakes, passes by the federal capital of Bern, is channeled into Biel lake, follows the southern foot of the Jura range and finally flows into the Rhine at Koblenz, in north-western Switzerland. 

Boats for the passengers operates from Biel to Solothurn on the lakes as well as the river section.

The ultimate fun is being swept rapidly back towards the Marzili Pools by the strong currents. The river flowed on beyond here, over a weir shortly downstream hence the need for swimmers to get out and on towards its confluence with the Rhine.

Train travel to Basel offers stunning views of blue waters. Aare is offering a free adrenaline rush that needs to be on every summer bucket list in Europe.

Top tips for swimming in the Aare

Nobody would like to see tourists on the river in distress. Most of the swimmers using noodle, beach ball or some other inflatable for a little extra buoyancy. Swimmers are advised to familiarize with the temperature boards at the Freibad Marzili since the river is several degrees colder than the pool. Take caution as you get out at ladders by the river banks, the current will pull you through shallow, shaking areas that can damage you.

A nice alternative is a trip from Thun to Bern for rafting. You’ll see a lot of people doing this near oar-free outing with several Bern and Thun-based outfits. 

1.Check with locals about current conditions and listen to their advice. No-one wants visitors to get into trouble on the river.
2. Look closely at other swimmers and you’ll notice many of them have a noodle, beach ball or some other inflatable for a little extra buoyancy. We didn’t have these and while we loved swimming it did get tiring pretty fast.
3. Familiarise yourself with the temperature boards at the Freibad Marzili – the river will be several degrees colder than the pool, though both temperatures are given.
4. Start slowly. Take a short float for the first time you go to get your bearings.
5. Take care approaching river banks if you’re getting out at ladders – the current will pull you over rockier, shallow sections and you could get hurt.
6. Don’t swim if you’ve had a drink.
7. A fun alternative is a rafting trip from Thun to Bern. You’ll see a lot of people doing this near oar-free outing. Several Bern and Thun-based outfits will rent you the gear.
8. Have fun!