Cooling off with a farm connection: Water fun in Switzerland

Countless lakes and rivers characterize the Swiss landscape and invite you to enjoy activities in, on and by the water. Almost everywhere, the refreshing water is just a stone's throw away and can be ideally combined with experiences on the farm. So: pack your swimming trunks, inflate your swimming tires - and off you go to summer in the countryside!

Our country is considered Europe's water castle and with around 1500 lakes and 61,000 km of rivers, Switzerland is a paradise for water lovers of all ages. The water quality is unique and you can swim practically everywhere without hesitation. Whether you want to relax and enjoy yourself, be active in sports or are looking for experiences close to nature, everything can be perfectly combined with a break on a farm. We present some regions and suitable farms where water fun and country idyll go hand in hand.

The summer classic: Aare rafting from Uttigen to Bern

The "Aareböötle" (Aare rafting) is a cult event - a leisurely trip on a rubber dinghy is simply part of the Bernese summer for experienced swimmers. The stretch from Uttigen (or Thun) to Bern is particularly popular with its quiet river passages, swimming opportunities and picnic spots. Ideally located, not far from the popular entry point in Uttigen, the Schürweid farm invites you to stay overnight, relax and enjoy yourself. The perfect place to relax after a day on the water or to get back on the boat the next morning. Particularly practical: inflatable boats and tubes, including life jackets, can be hired in Uttigen and simply returned at the end point in Bern.

Find out more:
- Discover Hof Schürweid
- The Ultimate Aare Rafting Guide
- Other water adventures in the Bern region

Quiet time out at Lake Burgäschi
The small, dreamy Lake Burgäschi is an insider tip for anyone looking for peace, nature and a family atmosphere. This enchanting natural paradise on the border between Solothurn and Bern is ideal for walking, swimming, rowing and fishing, but above all for relaxing and enjoying yourself. In summer, water lilies adorn the surface of the water, and the walk around the lake takes about half an hour. Around 20 minutes' walk from the lake is the cozy Leinacherhof in Seeberg (BE), which welcomes vacation guests with open arms. The idyllic surroundings, relaxed farm life and proximity to the water make it the ideal retreat for families and couples.

Find out more:
- Discover Leinacherhof
- Around Lake Burgäschi
- More water adventures in the Oberaargau region

Crystal clear: the bathing and mountain lakes of Obwalden
With its picturesque lakes and tranquil hiking trails, Obwalden is also a real insider tip for summer vacations in unspoilt nature. Nestled in a breathtaking mountain landscape, Lake Sarnen and the emerald-colored Lake Lungern offer the best conditions for swimming, picnics or short boat trips. The Weid adventure farm in Kerns (OW) is ideally located not only for exploring these two lakes but also as a starting point for excursions to the region's mountain lake gems at higher altitudes. On the farm itself you can expect the full farm experience with animals (including donkey rides), fine organic farm produce, sleeping on straw, etc. The romantic barrel sauna is perfect for unwinding after a fantastic four-lake hike. Special highlights in summer also include overnight stays on the remote Oberlachen Alp in the Melchtal valley or sleeping under the open sky in the unique "Weidbox".

Find out more:
- Discover the Weid adventure farm
- Other summer activities in Obwalden

Swimming and water sports on Lake Constance
Oops, we almost forgot the big Swiss lakes because we were so enthusiastic about the charming smaller bodies of water. Whether Lake Neuchâtel or Lake Lucerne, Lac Léman or Lake Maggiore - they all offer countless experiences on and around the water. It's impossible to list them all, so we'll limit ourselves here to Lake Constance. The third largest inland lake in Europe is a magnet for anyone who loves water. From idyllic bathing spots and hip beach bars to the thrill of wakeboarding and kitesurfing, the possibilities on Lake Constance are endless. Stand-up paddling and excursions by canoe or sailing boat are also extremely popular. Just a few meters from the lake, you can stay overnight at the Strohhotel Bodensee in Frasnacht near Arbon and at the Strohhotel-Senn in Eschenz on Untersee - whether in fragrant straw, in cozy rooms or in a comfortable vacation apartment. Whether it's a dip in the lake in the morning or a barbecue in the open air in the evening, rural charm and proximity to the water are combined in a special way here.

Find out more:
- Discover the Strohhotel-Senn
- Discover the Strohhotel Bodensee
- Discover more farms near the lake
- More experiences in the Thurgau-Lake Constance region

Refreshingly different: Holidays between water and pasture
Whether paddling on the lake, splashing in the river or picnicking on the shore - summer in the countryside offers more than just peace and nature. Combined with the warm hospitality on our farms, regional cuisine and animal encounters, your stay will be an all-round harmonious experience. Treat yourself and your family to some time out on the farm and let yourself be surprised by Switzerland's abundance of water.

Note: This text was translated by machine translation software and not by a human translator. It may contain translation errors.