Interlaken is famous for its stunning Alpine scenery and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a fantastic hub for hands-on experiences. Whether you want to learn how to snowboard on Swiss slopes, craft delicious cheese, or explore the region with a flexible travel pass, Interlaken offers options that go beyond sightseeing. We particularly like the Swiss Travel Pass for its ease and value, giving you unlimited travel across trains, boats, and cable cars in the Bernese Oberland—perfect for exploring the area at your own pace. For a delicious taste of Swiss culture, the fondue cooking class offers a fun, interactive way to master one of Switzerland’s most iconic dishes.
If you’re into snow sports, the beginner snowboarding lessons in Grindelwald and full-day lessons are excellent choices, especially with the breathtaking views of Eiger. These experiences blend practical skills with incredible scenery, making them ideal for newcomers who want to learn in a safe, supportive environment. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated workshops and classes, helping you decide which one fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Berner Oberland: Swiss Half Fare & STS Holder 2nd Class Pass
At number one, this Berner Oberland Pass offers unlimited travel through the heart of the Swiss Alps for 3 to 10 days. Whether you’re keen to explore the lakes of Lake Thun and Brienz, ride on 25 cable cars, or hop on mountain trains, this pass covers it all in 2nd class—a cost-effective way to see the region without buying individual tickets.
What makes this pass stand out is its flexibility and savings. You can enjoy discounts of 10% to 100% at around 40 attractions, from scenic boat rides to mountain excursions. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to explore multiple towns, such as Interlaken and Lucerne, at their own pace. Reviews praise its ease of use—simply scan your QR code at trains and attractions, and you’re set. The main benefit? You won’t have to worry about the cost of each ride, and you’ll get maximum value out of your time in the mountains.
Bottom line: If you plan to explore the Bernese Oberland extensively with flexible travel options, this pass is a smart, money-saving choice.
2. Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland
For a deliciously different experience, the fondue cooking class in Interlaken offers a memorable dive into Swiss culinary traditions. Dress up as a Swiss cheese chef and pose in front of one of Switzerland’s largest fondue pots—an Instagram-worthy moment. The class begins with an engaging chat about the history and cultural significance of cheese fondue, touching on humorous tales like the Swiss cheese mafia conspiracy.
During the hands-on part, you’ll learn about the different types of Swiss cheese, taste them paired with wines, and then make your own cheese fondue from scratch. The experience is lively and interactive, with fun cheese-themed games that keep everyone engaged, making it ideal for families, couples, or friends. The instructor is praised for her knowledge and enthusiasm, creating a friendly atmosphere. Over 19 reviews, everyone agrees it’s a delicious, educational, and fun way to spend a couple of hours, ending with plenty of cheese and wine to enjoy.
Value for money is high considering the quality of food, drinks, and the interactive experience. It’s best suited for food lovers and anyone curious about Swiss cheese culture. Be prepared for a cozy, convivial experience that leaves you with new recipes and a full belly.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, hands-on culinary adventure, this cheese workshop will satisfy your taste buds and sense of fun.
3. From Interlaken: Afternoon Beginners Snowboarding Lesson
If you want to conquer the slopes, the afternoon snowboarding lesson in Grindelwald is a fantastic way to get started. For around $162, you’ll spend about five hours on beginner-friendly terrain, learning the basics of snowboarding in a supportive setting. The lesson begins with a warm-up and overview of gear, then moves on to fundamental techniques like balancing, turning, and stopping.
What makes this tour special is its focus on beginners, with the instructor guiding you through each step. You’ll practice on the gentle Bodmi slopes, with spectacular views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The magic carpets and drag lifts make it easy for newcomers to get comfortable on the snow without the stress of complex lifts or steep terrain. Past participants praise the instructor’s patience and clear explanations, making it an accessible, confidence-building experience.
This tour is ideal for first-timers who want to try snowboarding with minimal hassle and maximum scenery. It’s a good investment if you’re looking for a safe way to learn and get a taste of alpine winter sports.
Bottom line: Beginners who want a supportive, scenic introduction to snowboarding will find this lesson well worth the price.
4. Berner Oberland: Swiss Half Fare & STS Holder 1st Class Pass
For travelers craving luxury and comfort, the first-class version of the Bernese Oberland pass offers unlimited travel across Bern, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Brig for 3 to 10 days. With this pass, you can enjoy priority seating, larger cabins, and an even more relaxed journey on trains, boats, and cable cars.
The key advantage is the extra comfort and the ability to spread out during long trips. It also includes discounts at many attractions and helps travelers who want a more premium experience in the Swiss mountains. The reviews highlight how easy it is to just hop on and off, with a focus on comfort and convenience.
This pass is perfect for those who want a bit more luxury, are traveling for an extended period, or simply prefer traveling in style. It’s a good value if you plan to spend multiple days exploring multiple locations in first class.
Bottom line: If you value comfort and a smoother travel experience, this pass will make your Swiss adventure more enjoyable.
5. From Interlaken: Grindelwald Beginners Snowboarding Lesson
For the full-day snowboarding experience, this 8-hour lesson in Grindelwald provides a comprehensive introduction for $250. It’s suited for those who want to dedicate a full day to learning and mastering snowboarding basics.
The program covers everything from how to slide on snow to proper stance and basic turns, on gentle slopes ideal for beginners. The instructor focuses on safety and technique, ensuring a solid foundation to build upon. The day includes riding on drag lifts and magic carpets, giving you a variety of experiences while taking in views of the Eiger and surrounding peaks.
While this is a longer commitment than the afternoon lesson, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer an immersive experience and want to see noticeable progress by day’s end. Past reviews mention how the instructor’s patience and clear instructions make the day enjoyable and productive.
Bottom line: If you’re serious about learning snowboarding and want a full-day, detailed course, this is your best bet.
How to Choose
When deciding among these workshops and classes, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re keen to explore the Bernese Oberland extensively, a travel pass like the Swiss Half Fare & STS Pass provides flexibility and savings. For food lovers, the cheese workshop offers an engaging hands-on culinary experience.
Aspiring skiers or snowboarders should look at the afternoon snowboarding lesson for a quick introduction, or the full-day course if they want to dedicate more time. Budget and comfort preferences will guide you toward the first- or second-class passes.
Timing-wise, most experiences work well in summer and winter, but check availability and book early during peak seasons to secure your spot.
Interlaken’s workshops and classes provide a wonderful way to deepen your Swiss experience — whether that’s learning to snowboard, making cheese, or exploring the region with a flexible pass. For different travel styles, these options deliver memorable moments and practical skills. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or an extended stay, booking early guarantees you won’t miss out on these unique adventures.