WELCOME TO ‘SWITZERLAND’S SUMMER CAPITAL’

The city of Thun and the Thunersee region are almost like a giant playground, with magnificent mountains, gently streaming rivers and wonderful lakes right on your doorstep. It's an absolute gem in the heart of Switzerland, not just for nature enthusiasts and families, but also for culture buffs.

"The Thun-Thunersee region is known as the prime region for adventures and relaxation in the heart of Switzerland. 'Small and exquisite’ is the region's motto," says Soner Avci enthusiastically. Born in Germany, he has made Thun his beloved home. As the managing director of the Culture and Congress Centre KKThun, board member of Thun- Thunersee Tourism and co-president of KULTURTHUN, he knows exactly what treasures the region has to offer: "The range, including the lake, mountains, nature, cultural opportunities and boutique feeling, is probably unique in Switzerland. You can even surf in the middle of the city."

Versatility and accessibility are the hallmarks of the Thun-Thunersee region. For example, Thun can be easily reached in a sustainable way thanks to the direct ICE connections from Hamburg and Berlin run by Deutsche Bahn.

Whether you prefer strolling through the historic old town of Thun (the gateway to the Bernese Oberland), trying fantastic cocktails in the old vaults of the Atelier Bar, or taking a leisurely steamboat ride to admire the many sights along the lake shore, there's something for everyone. The surrounding castles with their beautiful parklands and 1,000-yearold churches will make the hearts of history buffs beat faster. For sports enthusiasts, the IRONMAN (July 9, 2023), with over 2,000 international athletes, is a real highlight.

Of course, there are also plenty of mountains. "The local Niesen mountain with its pyramid shape offers a magnificent view far beyond the Thunersee region," says Avci. "An added element of interest is that the longest staircase in the world, with 11,600 steps, leads to the summit."

In addition to various festivals such as the Thunerseespiele, the Culture and Congress Centre KKThun also offers a wide range of cultural events. However, it's not just tourists who visit, but also MICE guests (Meetings, Incentives, Congresses & Events). "As a whole, the KKThun offers an ideal platform for multi-day congresses with an extraordinary supporting programme in the region," says Avci, adding with a smile: "Thun, only staying is better."

www.kkthun.ch