Scherzligschleuse

Scherzligschleuse is a well-known river surfing spot in Thun, Switzerland, located on the Aare River near the Scherzlig lock. It’s not an ocean wave, but a standing river wave created by the flow of water over infrastructure in the river.

What it’s like

• Type of spot: River wave / stationary wave
• Water: Fast-moving freshwater with strong current
• Wave character: Short, steep, and powerful, with a lot of push
• Best for: Experienced river surfers, bodyboarders, and sometimes kayakers
• Conditions: Depends heavily on river discharge and water level

Surfing conditions

The wave can change a lot with: - Seasonal water flow - Rainfall and snowmelt - Local river management / lock operations

When the flow is right, it can produce a fun, fast wave that is more technical than a beach break. Because it’s in a river, riders need to be comfortable with: - Strong current - Quick takeoffs - Limited recovery space - Cold water, often

Spot vibe

Scherzligschleuse is part of Switzerland’s river-surfing culture, where locals and visiting surfers gather around engineered river waves. It tends to have a community feel and can be a nice place to watch even if you’re not surfing.

Safety notes

• Wear appropriate protection, especially if river surfing
• Be aware of rocks, structures, and strong hydraulics
• Check local conditions and talk to locals before paddling in
• Water levels can make the spot unsafe or unsurfable