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La Switzerland, although it is not an extremely large country, it hides in its territory many natural, historical and architectural jewels that are worth knowing. One of them is Spiez, a town that strikes the visitor with its elegance, its history and its poetic atmosphere kissed by a light that excites everyone.
Where is Spiez located
Spiez is located in the Canton of Bern, in the Oberland region, and develops among vineyards and hills, while its profile overlooks the placid and beautiful Lake Thun. It is a small village that boasts an extraordinary position, on what from many consider it the most beautiful bay in Europe.
An ideal destination in any season of the year due to the vast range of experiences it offers, it is also an excellent starting point for exploring the magnificent surroundings, perhaps via hiking and cycling paths, or towards the nearby cities of Thun and Interlaken.
What to expect
The picturesque location of Spiez alone is worth the trip, but when the visitor arrives he is enchanted by the delightful atmosphere, enriched by the presence of a castle that seems stolen from the most beautiful fairy tale they have ever written.
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Spiez is a reality that satisfies those in search of the purest relaxation, but also those who want to have outdoor experiences, including seasonal sports which are all present and perfectly organized here.
Get inspired
Without a shadow of a doubt the symbol of this special village is its aancient castle, but the truth is that it is such a fascinating structure that it deserves a paragraph of its own.
In addition to the manor, however, there are many small but interesting things to see, starting from the historic center of medieval origin. Breathtaking in the true sense of the word is the bay of Spiez which, in addition to being naturally formed, acts as a marina.
This means that another of Spiez's unmissable activities is getting on board a boat to go around this magnificent bay which, thanks also to the milder climate compared to the rest of the region, enchants everyone (but to be verified based on to the weather and the period in which you visit it).
In fact, there are several scheduled boats available to visitors, including the historic steamship BlĂŒmlisalp, which connect the numerous points of interest found around the lake. While in the warmer months, therefore from May to October, there is the Spiezer ZĂŒgli, a wheeled train that leads to the discovery of this sumptuous bay.
A little gem for football lovers: in the city of Spiez theHotel Belvedere which is particularly loved by the German people: their national team stayed here during the 1954 football world championship, won by Germany.
In this regard we talk about spirit benevolence of Spiez because, on that 4th of July many years ago, Germany managed to beat Hungary, at the time the World Cup favourites, in the final in front of 60.000 spectators Wankdorfstadion di Berna. In fact, it is said that the winning tactic of the coach, Sepp Herberger, was conceived precisely on Spiez lakeside. It is no coincidence that even today, near the promenade that runs along the lake, several signs are installed that recall this curious story.
Spiez Castle
The charming Castle of Spiez it allows you to experience the Middle Ages first-hand, to breathe that atmosphere, to feel part of the glories that characterized those times. Located on a hill that stands on a peninsula in Lake Thun, together with its church it represents a cultural monument of national value.
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The museum inside allows you to take the journey back in time that we told you about before, a journey that brings 1300 years of local history back to life.
The traveler is also struck by the Romanesque-style religious building which is full of frescoes. And then the exterior of the manor with an elegant park, the rose garden and the garden that leave anyone enchanted.
During the Middle Ages, Spiez Castle was remodeled and expanded several times, and today features architectural elements typical of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Hers is beautiful tower which in fact is also the oldest part â visible today â of the castle itself.
Inside, however, the traveler can admire decorated and furnished rooms, such as the Baroque banquet room and the Renaissance room dotted with wooden panels.
The small Romanesque church instead has three naves and is recognized as one of the oldest buildings in Switzerland. Its internal walls, as well as its ceiling, are surprising for the many frescoes dating back to the 12th century. Then there is a terrace that offers the most beautiful and exciting view of the city. In addition, there is also a History Museum which traces the phases of the dominion of the 3 families who owned it.
What to do in the surroundings
During the cold months the town of Spiez proves to be a phenomenal starting point for those who love winter sports: in a short time it is possible to reach many places in theOberland Bernese.
Thrill-seekers cannot fail to make a stop at the Sigriswil suspension bridge which was erected on what is called the ârubber gorgeâ, between Aeschlen and Sigriswil. Built 180 meters high and 340 meters long, it can be explored by adults and children while being surrounded by an exhilarating panoramic view of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps.
And among all the peaks it is worth admiring the Niesen which reaches an altitude of 2362 meters above sea level. It is considered the local mountain of Spiez and, due to its curious shape, is known as âPyramid of the Alpsâ, an ideal peak for hiking lovers.
Finally, we recommend you stop by the Grotte di Beatus which extend for approximately 14 kilometres. Of these, only one kilometer can be visited, but such a small space contains numerous and exciting rock formations which are highlighted by particularly innovative lighting. And if you still haven't had enough, know that next to the cave comes to life a modern museum where there are often several interactive exhibitions.
All that remains is to book the your stay in the beautiful town of Spiez.
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