Taking the Intercity from track 6, we leave Basel SBB at 07:59. At 09:21, we arrive in Thun. Then we board the ship, which leaves at 09:40. An hour and a quarter later, we arrive in Merligen, where we follow the old pilgrim trail (90 mins max.) to the St. Beatus Caves.

For SFr. 18.00, we can visit the caves (SFr. 16.00 if we are a group of ten or more) which takes about 75 minutes. Just keep in mind, that the temperatures in the cave are around 8 to 10 degrees, so bring some warm clothing.

Afterwards, we walk towards Interlaken (takes about 2.5 hours). At about half time of this trip, we can go swimming in the lake, so don’t forget to bring a blanket and a bathing suit.

We can either eat at a restaurant near the caves or have a picknic there.

From Interlaken West, (train leaving at :05/02 and :35/32 twice every hour) we return to Basel in less than two hours.

(Total hiking time: four to five hours, nothing too complicated, did this as at school)

http://www.beatushoehlen.ch/index.php?lg=1&id=2
http://www.ausflieger.ch/default.asp?module=tipp&ID=3&art=3
(both in German but feel free to ask, if you have questions)

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Ticket information:

If my google-fu is as good as I think, thess should be the prices for 2nd class Halb-tax:

BASEL SBB - MERLIGEN THS CHF 36.00 (including boat, SBB tries to give a train - bus - boat option, just get the train - boat option by removing bus from extra options).

INTERLAKEN WEST - BASEL SBB CHF 29.00

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Here ares some informations:

Lets meet at track 6 in Basel. If you come earlier, chances are higher, that we can get some seats to sit together.

Those joining in Thun, please meet us at the boat before 09:40.

I am not too sure about the restaurant at the moment, as I didn't give you too much time to decide and I fear, that some/most won't see the message I sent before it is too late. I will try to give some feedback tomorrow.

It could be, we have to eat somewhere else. One idea would be to take a small picnic around the caves and stay a bit longer in Interlaken and get something to eat there.

Don't forget to take a towel, bathing suit, etc., if you want to go for a swim. Some warm clothes for the caves too.

Weather still looks OK for Sunday. Bring sun- and rain-protection.