Interlaken, town and summer resort in central Switzerland, in Bern Canton. It is situated on the Aare River between Brienz and Thun lakes, near the city of Bern, in the Bernese Oberland region in the Alps. Tourism is Interlaken's main economic activity. Attractions include an 18th-century castle, used today to house government offices, and a spectacular view of the Jungfrau peak from the main street of the town. Printing and the manufacture of woolen textiles are other important industries. Interlaken was founded in the 12th century. Population (1996) 5,176.
