travel information

 We are excited to celebrate at 

Schloss Oberhofen , a lakeside castle that seems straight out of a storybook. Situated on the peaceful shores of Lake Thun, the castle is surrounded by gardens, terraces, and sweeping views of the Alps, offering a memorable setting for our wedding. Its combination of natural beauty and historic architecture makes it one of the region’s most distinctive landmarks. 

History
Dating back to the 13th century, Schloss Oberhofen is known for its turrets, lakeside tower, and well-preserved halls. Originally a medieval fortress, it later became a residential castle and today stands as both a cultural landmark and a symbol of Swiss heritage. Its long history adds character and depth to every visit, reflecting centuries of Swiss architecture, design, and local tradition. 

The Setting
The castle grounds provide a quiet and timeless atmosphere. From pathways through the gardens to the reflections of the tower on the lake, each area feels carefully preserved. The combination of water, mountains, and historic architecture makes it a striking backdrop for gatherings and photographs. The gardens, terraces, and interior spaces offer multiple areas for exploration and quiet enjoyment, giving guests flexibility to relax and take in the surroundings.

Surrounding Area

 Schloss Oberhofen enjoys a prime location in the Bernese Oberland, just 30 minutes from Bern, Switzerland’s historic capital. The charming towns of Thun and Interlaken are nearby, offering quaint streets, local markets, and lakeside promenades. Adventure awaits in the surrounding Alps, with the famed Jungfrau region easily accessible for day trips, breathtaking hikes, and scenic excursions. This region perfectly combines Swiss natural beauty with cultural richness, providing our guests countless opportunities to explore the iconic landscapes and charming towns of central Switzerland. 

 Departure – October 14, 2026
Guests will travel independently to Switzerland, with most international flights arriving at Zurich Airport (ZRH). From the United States, several major airlines offer service to Zurich, including:

• SWISS International Air Lines – Nonstop flights from Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and other major cities.
• United Airlines – Direct and codeshare flights with SWISS.
• Delta Air Lines and American Airlines – One-stop options via London, Paris, or Frankfurt.
• Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, and KLM – European carriers offering smooth connections into Zurich.
   

We recommend choosing a flight that arrives in Zurich by midday on October 15, 2026.

Arrival – October 15, 2026
Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, take the direct Rail Europe train to Thun Station (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes). Once in Thun, it’s a short walk or quick taxi ride to Hotel Aare Thun.

2:00 PM: Welcome Meet & Greet Aperitif — Join us at Hotel Aare Thun for coffee, tea, light snacks, and aperitifs as we begin the wedding festivities together.

Departure – October 18, 2026
From here, create your own adventure:

• Extend your stay in Switzerland – Discover nearby gems like Interlaken, Zermatt, or Lucerne.
• Hop into Italy – Lake Como is just a few hours away by train, offering breathtaking views and Italian charm.
• Venture into France – Visit Geneva or even Paris for a romantic add-on.
• Explore Germany – Travel north to Munich or Freiburg for culture and Bavarian flair.
• Return Home – Or journey back to Zurich for your flight to the United States.

 We are delighted to recommend 

Hotel Aare Thun as the accommodation for our wedding guests. Located along the Aare River in the heart of Thun’s Old Town, this boutique hotel blends modern comfort with a serene riverside setting. Guests can enjoy the charm of the city just outside the door, while being only a short walk from Lake Thun and surrounded by Alpine views.

History
Thun is often called the “Gateway to the Bernese Oberland.” With its medieval castle, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old charm, the town has been a cultural and trading hub since the 12th century. Hotel Aare, housed in a former historic building, preserves this spirit by blending contemporary design with the character of its past.

Room Information
Hotel Aare offers a range of accommodations, from intimate singles to spacious doubles and suites. Many rooms feature calming river views or overlook the picturesque Old Town. 

Dining & Amenities
The restaurant highlights fresh, regional cuisine with a modern twist, and each morning begins with a generous breakfast buffet, included with your stay. Guests can also relax on the riverside terrace, a beautiful spot to enjoy coffee, tea, or an aperitif while taking in the atmosphere of Thun. In addition, all guests receive a Panorama Card Thunersee for the duration of their stay, which provides free use of the bus network within the Lake Thun, Spiez, and Aeschi regions, making it easy to explore the surrounding towns and scenic spots. 

Reserve Your Room
Kindly RSVP and confirm your reservation by 

July 31, 2026, to take advantage of our reserved room block with a special rate of $285/night at Hotel Aare Thun. 

October at Schloss Oberhofen is beautifully crisp and romantic—picture golden leaves, snow-kissed mountain views, and cozy lakeside charm.

• Average Temperatures: 45–60°F (7–15°C)
   
• Weather: Cool and fresh with a mix of sunshine and the occasional light rain
   
• Tip: Bring layers, a light coat, and comfortable shoes—perfect for enjoying autumn strolls along Lake Thun.
   

The fall colors around the castle and lake make for a stunning and unforgettable backdrop. We recommend dressing warmly so you can take full advantage of the views and the celebration!

Swiss Chocolate Factory – Maison Cailler
For a sweet day trip, visit Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand. Enjoy tastings, interactive exhibits, and a behind-the-scenes look at chocolate making.
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car

 Explore Thun Castle
Located just a short walk from Hotel Aare, this 12th-century castle overlooks the town and Lake Thun. Inside, you’ll find fascinating historical exhibits and sweeping views from the towers.  

Stroll Through Thun’s Old Town
Wander cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, cafés, and the famous raised sidewalks unique to Thun. Don’t miss the picturesque Aare River, wooden covered bridges, and charming town squares.

  Boat Cruise on Lake Thun
Step aboard directly from Thun for a scenic cruise on turquoise waters, with stops at lakeside villages and castles along the way. Historic paddle steamers and modern boats operate regularly.

See the Aletsch Glacier 

(UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Take a train and cable car up to Jungfraujoch or Eggishorn for a once-in-a-lifetime view of Europe’s largest glacier. A longer journey, but unforgettable.
Travel Time: Around 2 hours.

 Hike Niederhorn Panorama Trail
Take a short trip from Thun to the Niederhorn funicular and cable car. At the top, enjoy a panoramic hike with breathtaking views of Lake Thun and the Alps.