Aar facts for kids
The Aare (German: Aare) is a very important river in Switzerland. It's special because it's the longest river that starts and finishes completely inside Switzerland. It's a tributary of the famous Rhine river, meaning it flows into the Rhine. The Aare flows through many beautiful parts of Switzerland, including its capital city, Bern.
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Where Does the Aare River Begin?
The Aare river starts high up in the Bernese Alps, which are part of the larger Alps mountain range. Its journey begins from the Oberaar Glacier and Unteraar Glacier. These are large, slow-moving rivers of ice. As the ice melts, it forms the clear, cold water of the Aare.
How Long is the Aare River?
The Aare river is about 295 kilometers (or 183 miles) long. This makes it the longest river that stays entirely within Switzerland's borders. Its journey takes it through many different landscapes, from high mountains to wide valleys.
What Cities Does the Aare Flow Through?
As the Aare flows north, it passes through several important Swiss cities and towns.
- Interlaken: This town is nestled between two beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, both of which the Aare flows through.
- Bern: The capital city of Switzerland, Bern, is famous for being built around a loop of the Aare river. The river adds to the city's charm and history.
- Solothurn: This historic city also sits along the banks of the Aare.
- Aarau: The capital of the Canton of Aargau is named after the river itself.
What is the Aare River Used For?
The Aare river is very important for Switzerland in many ways:
- Drinking Water: Its clean water is used for drinking by many communities along its path.
- Hydroelectric Power: The river's strong current is used to generate electricity at several hydroelectric power plants. This is a clean way to make energy.
- Recreation: Many people enjoy spending time on or near the Aare.
- Swimming: In summer, swimming in the Aare, especially in Bern, is a popular activity.
- Boating: People also enjoy rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the river.
- Nature and Wildlife: The river and its banks are home to various plants and animals, making it an important natural habitat.
Where Does the Aare River End?
The Aare river eventually joins the Rhine river. This meeting point is near the town of Koblenz in Switzerland. The Rhine then continues its long journey through several countries before reaching the North Sea.
Images for kids
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The Unteraargletscher
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The Aare at Innertkirchen
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Inside the Aare Gorge
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Aare in Bern
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Old bridge at Wangen an der Aare
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At the "Wasserschloss", where the rivers Aare, Reuss and Limmat flow together
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The convergence of the Aare and the Rhine at Koblenz
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See also
In Spanish: Río Aar para niños
