ABOUT THIS ADVENTURE
For a long time I had this idea that Europe lacked the outdoor adventures I could get in other parts of the world. I was WRONG! I traveled to Interlaken Switzerland which is known as the “adventure capital of Europe.” During my visit, the company Alpin Raft sponsored my activities and this is an in-depth look at canyoning Interlaken. For my full experience check out my blog Things To Do In Interlaken: Outdoor Adventures with Alpin Raft.
CANYONING INTERLAKEN
Canyoning is a sport that involves climbing, jumping and swimming through waterfalls and canyons. I’ve been canyoning several times around the world (Australia, Costa Rica & United States) and I can say that (so far) my best experience was in Switzerland with Alpin Raft. For starters, location. Chli Schliere is an hour drive from Interlaken Switzerland and locals refer to it as the best spot for canyoning in the region. For 3-4 hours we smiled and laughed as we enjoyed jumping off cliffs, sliding down natural waterfalls, rappelling and hiking.
On the car ride to Chli Schliere I had the chance to spend quality time with my tour guide Koryn. Immediately Koryn radiated joy from the moment he started talking about his job. There was no doubt in my mind that this is a man who is passionate about his career and Alpin Raft. Koryn shared with me that he has been working with Alpin Raft for 12 years. He spends summers in Switzerland and winters in New Zealand where he works as a tour guide as well.
I asked Koryn what makes canyoning Interlaken at Chli Schliere so special. With over 10 years of canyoning experience in Switzerland he told me Chli Schliere is:
- considered the best canyoning in the region
- the most challenging
- visually the most spectacular and dramatic
- a slot canyon meaning it has overhanging cliffs and over time water has sliced through the limestone rock to create a lot of natural waterslides
- full of deep waterworn pothole pools
After arriving to Chli Schliere we changed into our wetsuits (provided by Alpin Raft) and hiked less than 15 minutes to the start of the canyons. The guides went over all the safety rules for the excursion and made sure everyone felt comfortable.
Right away we began jumping off cliffs into the water. The rest of the afternoon was spent jumping, sliding, flipping, back flipping, climbing, hiking, rappelling and cannon balling into the water. Like Koryn said, Chli Schliere is spectacular! The canyons are loaded with pristine waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, lush flora and adventure at every turn.
Our guides also approached the entire hike with positive and humorous energy that was infectious. Alpin Raft makes sure that its guests are in good hands and most importantly have fun while canyoning Interlaken.
Psst – did you find this post informative? Useful? Inspiring? Save it for later on Pinterest!