Kander

Kander is a river in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It is a right-bank tributary of the Aare. Source and course: It rises in the Bernese Alps in the Kandertal, formed by glacial meltwater from the high mountains near Kandersteg. The river descends through the Kandertal, a valley known for its alpine scenery, and flows past the communities of Kandersteg and Frutigen before continuing toward the Aare. In its upper reaches the river is characterized by a fast current and steep gradients, while downstream it broadens as it approaches the flatter Prealpine landscape.

Uses and environment: The Kander valley hosts hydroelectric facilities that utilize the river’s flow to generate power for the region. The river and its valley are popular for outdoor recreation, including hiking, kayaking in certain sections, and fishing. The upper part of the watershed includes Oeschinen Lake (Oeschinensee), a well-known alpine lake near Kandersteg that contributes to the river's headwaters.