Matten near Interlaken combines village history with a wide range of experiences on the Rugen: you can explore the village fountains and water, plan to attend a Tell performance, or choose from leisure and sports activities. The landscape also shapes the area. Matten lies on the Bödeli, a floodplain between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The terrain is mostly flat, with forests, green meadows and views of the surrounding mountains.
Village fountains and paths by the water
The fountains are part of Matten’s character. They are popular play spots for children and an attraction for visitors from Switzerland and abroad. The Brunnenweg trail draws on this local heritage: as a themed trail, it tells the story of the village fountains and explains the importance of water. So this trail is about more than simply walking; it also explores the history of a defining feature of the village.
The Ringweg trail on the Kleine Rugen offers a different perspective. The path to the drinking hall on the Kleine Rugen affords an unobstructed view of the Jungfrau massif. The Ringweg is also considered a pleasant winter walk through nature. The drinking hall was built in 1863. Those looking to combine cultural history with a walk will find a tangible historical connection here; the Tell Open-Air Theatre, by contrast, focuses on the theatrical experience.
Tell on the Rugen and historic sites
Tell has been performed in Matten since 1912. The Tell Open-Air Theatre takes place on a natural stage in the Rugenwald forest; horses, cows and goats are part of the performance. If you would like to see the play during your trip, check the performance dates for your travel dates. This is especially useful if seeing the performance is a highlight of your stay.
The drinking hall on the Kleine Rugen adds another chapter to the area’s history: it was built in 1863. The Ringweg trail to the drinking hall links this historic site with an unobstructed view of the Jungfrau massif. Together, the Brunnenweg and Ringweg trails explore two different themes in the area: one focuses on the history of the fountains and water, while the other leads to the drinking hall and is also used as a winter walk through nature.
Leisure, climbing and cycling
JungfrauPark Interlaken is a family entertainment and event centre with numerous attractions spread over more than 100,000 square metres. Its address is Obere Bönigstrasse 100 in Matten near Interlaken; check the address before setting out. Among the attractions is the Virtual Arena, which offers VR gaming for the whole family. As individual attractions may change, it is advisable to check availability before your visit.
At Seilpark Interlaken, you’ll find 14 courses in the treetops with more than 160 obstacles. The park also has a butterfly trail with child-friendly heights and obstacles. The Rugen Skillscenter offers four routes for different riding abilities; its bike park is open all year round. The options range from a family attraction with VR gaming to climbing courses and cycling. Which one suits your trip depends mainly on whether you want to focus on culture, leisure activities or exercise.
A look inside Rugenbräu
The guided Rugenbräu tour showcases the production stages through to the finished product and concludes with a beer tasting. The tour also includes the Rugen Distillery and the whisky cellar. If you plan to visit, check the booking details in advance. Rugenbräu has parking for cars and coaches; check the latest information before setting out.
Getting there and planning your stay
Matten bei Interlaken station offers Park+Ride for visitors arriving by car, as well as a direct public transport connection to the Jungfrau Region. Check operating details before your trip. If you are considering Matten as a place to stay, compare your travel dates with the performance schedule and the latest information about the activities that matter for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Gündlischwand, Mürren, Bönigen, Oberried on Lake Brienz, Unterseen, Wengen, Niederried near Interlaken, Habkern.
Back to the main travel overview: Interlaken.
