About Hightide Kayak School
Hightide Kayak School is the premier paddlesport specialist on the shores of Lake Brienz, operating from a waterfront base in Bönigen just ten minutes by bus from Interlaken Ost station. Since opening, they have built a loyal following among visitors and locals alike for their relaxed, walk-in-friendly approach to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on one of Switzerland's most strikingly turquoise alpine lakes. No reservation is needed for rentals — just show up, grab a boat, and head out onto the water.
Rental options include sit-on-top kayaks, touring kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedalos, all priced by the hour with paddles and buoyancy aids included. For those who want a guided experience, Hightide runs kayak tours along Lake Brienz's shoreline to the famous Giessbach Falls, a spectacular cascade that plunges directly into the lake. Professional coaching sessions are also available for paddlers who want to develop their technique, from beginner flatwater skills through to river kayaking fundamentals.
Hightide stands out for its accessibility and inclusive ethos — they offer adaptive paddling sessions for participants with varying physical needs, a rarity in the Swiss adventure scene. The seasonal operation runs from May through October, with wetsuits and splash jackets available for cooler days. For visitors looking for a calmer counterpoint to Interlaken's high-adrenaline offerings, a morning paddle on the glassy surface of Lake Brienz is hard to beat.
