Hohematte Park | Interlaken

Information

Landmark: Hohematte Park
City: Interlaken
Country: Switzerland
Continent: Europe

Hohematte Park, Interlaken, Switzerland, Europe

Höhematte Park is a 14-hectare open green space in the center of Interlaken, preserved from development since the 19th century.

Visual Characteristics

The park is a vast, flat meadow characterized by unobstructed views of the Jungfrau massif. It is bordered by the grand Höheweg promenade on one side and the Aare river on the other. Architecturally, it is framed by historic luxury hotels like the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. The park serves as a visual "green lung," preventing the urban density of Interlaken from obscuring the Alpine skyline.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Höheweg, 3800 Interlaken.

Public Transport: Centrally located between Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West railway stations. Both are a 7–10 minute walk away.

Pedestrian: Directly accessible from any point in the central business district.

Vehicle: Underground parking is available at the nearby "Parking Migros" or "Parking Casino."

Historical Origin

The land was originally owned by the Augustinian Convent of Interlaken. In 1860, a group of local hotel owners and residents purchased the land and established a covenant to keep it free of buildings forever to ensure that the view of the Jungfrau remained a public asset. This preservation was a key factor in Interlaken’s development as a premier tourism destination.

Key Highlights & Activities

Paragliding Landing Site: The park is the primary landing zone for tandem paragliders descending from Beatenberg. It is common to see dozens of landings per hour during clear weather.

Ice Magic: During winter (mid-December to late February), a portion of the park is converted into an extensive network of ice skating rinks and paths.

Stadthausplatz: Located at the western end, featuring a traditional Swiss clock and fountain.

Augustinian Cloister Ruins: Situated at the eastern edge near the Schlosskirche.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Accessibility: Entirely flat with paved perimeter paths, making it 100% wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Connectivity: High-density 5G coverage is consistent across the entire meadow.

Facilities: Public benches are positioned along the Höheweg side; public restrooms are located near the Japanese Garden (eastern end).

Best Time to Visit

Clear Days: To witness the paragliders and the reflection of the sun on the Jungfrau.

Summer Evenings: For the cooler temperatures and frequent live musical performances at the bandstand.

Facts & Legends

A verified fact: The park's maintenance is still managed through the Höhematte Foundation to uphold the 1860 non-build agreement. Technical detail: The meadow is also used as a primary venue for large-scale events like the Jungfrau Marathon finish line and the Greenfield Festival's urban auxiliary events.