The Aare River, also known as Aar, is the longest river in Switzerland and is located entirely in the country. What does the name Aare mean?
As quoted by us from the Waterdatabase, the name Aare actually comes from the Indo-European or Indian European syllable, namely Aa, which means water in the language.
Aa is basically the old German word for any flowing water. Many small rivers in Switzerland are referred to as Aa or combine the name Aa with local names.
Swimming in the Aare River has become a Swiss folk tradition and culture. In addition, according to scientists the water quality of this river is very good by European Union standards.
Please note, the Aare River used for tourism is the one that flows from Thun City to Bern City to Wohlensee Lake. For Thun and Wohlensee mostly boating activities, while for swimming in the river only in the City of Bern.
The Aare River divides the City of Bern from the Muribad area, then runs along the north side of the City to Eymatt. The color of this river looks blue.
Swiss waters are mostly blue, green, or turquoise, depending on the time of day and season. Its beautiful color results from glacial particles known as "rock flour" which reflect the blue-green sector of the light spectrum.
Glacier particles are tiny, sinking slowly to the bottom. The purity of the Aare River water also allows these particles to easily enter and diffuse. The colors of the rivers and lakes are said to be most beautiful in spring, when they are turquoise or emerald when the glaciers begin to melt.