Strandbad Merligen

Strandbad Merligen is a small lakeside lido in the village of Merligen, on the northern shore of Lake Thun in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, at Seestrasse 294. The shore here is a managed lawn rather than a sand beach, with grass running down to a pebbly lake edge and entry into the water from the shoreline. Lake Thun is a deep glacial-fed lake with clear blue-green water that is cooler than most Swiss lowland lakes, though it warms enough by July and August for comfortable swimming. Merligen sits on a steep, sunny slope facing the lake, so the lido enjoys views across the water toward the peaks of the Bernese Alps and the Niesen. The setting is calm and village-scale. It lacks the aqua park or pool of larger lidos, which keeps the atmosphere quiet and suited to families with young children, couples and people who simply want to read on the lawn and swim. Amenities include changing cabins, showers and a kiosk for drinks and snacks. The facility opens seasonally, roughly from mid-May to mid-September, and an entry fee applies, so current prices and hours should be confirmed locally. Access is part of the appeal. The lido is about 10 km west of Interlaken West, and visitors can travel by BLS lake boat from Interlaken West to Merligen, an enjoyable trip in its own right, or take a regional bus along the lakeshore road. Driving is possible but parking in Merligen is limited, especially on sunny weekends. The village has a few restaurants and lakeside cafes within walking distance, useful for lunch after a swim. Visitors who like walking can combine the beach with the lakeshore trail toward Beatenbucht and the Beatus Caves area, which lies nearby. Because the lido is compact, it fills up on the hottest days, and the lawn near the water goes first. Shade is limited, so a hat and sun cream are worth packing.