Bern's Aare River: A Commute Unlike Any Other

On hot summer afternoons in Bern, Switzerland, the Aare River becomes a lively recreational space. Locals gather to float downstream, carrying essential items in distinctive waterproof bags. This practice is a cherished tradition, offering a refreshing escape from the heat as the river winds past the city's historic landmarks.

The Aare's clean, turquoise glacial water makes it ideal for this unique activity. After environmental reforms in the latter half of the 20th century significantly improved water quality, river swimming became a popular pastime across Switzerland. The iconic, brightly colored Aare bags serve a dual purpose: keeping valuables dry and acting as flotation devices.

While social media often portrays this as a "river commute," it is primarily a cultural phenomenon. A few residents do incorporate the float into their journey home, blending recreation with unconventional travel. The strong current facilitates drifting long distances, making the stretch between Eichholz and Marzili a favored route.