Expert recommendations based on local insights and verified guest experiences — Updated 2026

Where to Stay in Interlaken for First-Time Visitors

Discover Interlaken's most romantic stays for couples visiting for the first-time.

Exquisite view of a luxury hotel in Interlaken ideal for couples
At a Glance
Country Switzerland
City Interlaken
Day / Night 23° / 14°
Local Time 8:12
July — Now Peak season
Best Months Feb · Oct

In this guide, uncover the best luxury accommodations in Interlaken tailored for couples seeking intimacy and adventure. Explore scenic viewpoints, candlelit dinners, and boutique spots to craft unforgettable moments together.

Top Interlaken Stays for First-Time Visitors

Best overall
9.3
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Echoing the charm of Lake Thun, this exclusive hotel combines grandeur with state-of-the-art spa facilities, offering couples an indulgent and serene experience amid breathtaking landscapes.

Best for couples
8.4
Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Situated centrally with picturesque river views, this hotel provides elegant rooms and an intimate atmosphere, ideal for romantic evenings or leisurely strolls by the river.

Top pick
8.6
Post Hardermannli

Post Hardermannli

Located in the quaint district of Unterseen, this hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a charming local touch, perfect for romantic escapes and exploring genuine Swiss culture.

Not sure which hotel suits you?

Find the perfect romantic escape for two.

Best choice: Central Interlaken

Ideal for visitors who prefer a City center atmosphere.

Best choice: Unterseen

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Old town charm atmosphere.

Best choice: Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Picturesque vie atmosphere.

Best choice: Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Scenic tranquil atmosphere.

Best Hotels in Interlaken for First-Time Visitors

Explore these top-rated romantic retreats in Interlaken, perfect for couples embarking on their first journey to this picturesque destination.

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken
Best for couples
8.4 Very Good
432 reviews

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Central • River Views

Situated centrally with picturesque river views, this hotel provides elegant rooms and an intimate atmosphere, ideal for romantic evenings or leisurely strolls by the river.

  • Riverfront location
  • Elegant decor
  • Intimate ambiance
Post Hardermannli
Top pick
8.6 Excellent
1562 reviews

Post Hardermannli

Unterseen • Cozy • Local Vibe

Located in the quaint district of Unterseen, this hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a charming local touch, perfect for romantic escapes and exploring genuine Swiss culture.

  • Cozy rooms
  • Local neighborhood
  • Traditional Swiss decor
SALZANO Hotel - Spa - Restaurant
Smart choice
8.5 Excellent
788 reviews

SALZANO Hotel - Spa - Restaurant

Unterseen • Spa • Nature

Nestled in the serene landscape of Unterseen, SALZANO is a haven for relaxation with its nature-inspired spa and intimate dining experiences, perfect for unwinding together.

  • Nature spa
  • Peaceful surroundings
  • Farm-to-table dining
BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel
Central location
9.3 Outstanding
356 reviews

BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel

Lake Thun • Wellness

Situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Thun, the hotel offers a rejuvenating spa, breathtaking lake views, and elegant dining, making it an ideal spot for romantic escapes.

  • Lakeside location
  • Elegant dining
  • Therapeutic spa
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
Hidden gem
9.3 Outstanding
646 reviews

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Lake Thun • Exclusive

Echoing the charm of Lake Thun, this exclusive hotel combines grandeur with state-of-the-art spa facilities, offering couples an indulgent and serene experience amid breathtaking landscapes.

  • Grand spa
  • Exquisite views
  • Sophisticated elegance
Seiler au Lac
Boutique stay
9 Outstanding
363 reviews

Seiler au Lac

Lake Brienz • Scenic Views

Offering outstanding panoramic views across Lake Brienz, this peaceful hotel features comfortable rooms and intimate dining options, perfect for unwinding and soaking up the natural beauty.

  • Scenic lake views
  • Cozy atmosphere
  • Peaceful setting
Boutique Hotel Bellevue B&B am Brienzersee Iseltwald Interlaken
Walkable area
8.7 Excellent
1062 reviews

Boutique Hotel Bellevue B&B am Brienzersee Iseltwald Interlaken

Lake Brienz • Cozy • Boutique

Positioned on the idyllic Lake Brienz, this boutique B&B offers lakeside charm with cozy settings, perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway with a personalized experience.

  • Charming lakeside B&B
  • Cozy settings
  • Boutique experience

How we select hotels

Our picks are based on guest reviews, romantic settings, and intimate atmosphere ideal for couples.

Where to Stay in Interlaken for First-Time Visitors

Explore the charm and romance of Interlaken's neighborhoods perfect for couples visiting for the first time.

Central Interlaken

Central Interlaken is the heartbeat of the city, pulsating with a blend of modern amenities and historic charm. Perfectly positioned for first-time visitors, it offers easy access to all major attractions while allowing you to soak in the town's vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. Imagine starting your morning at a quaint café, indulging in Swiss pastries, followed by a picturesque walk along the Aare River. The area is peppered with art galleries and craft boutiques, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

As the sun sets, Central Interlaken transforms into a romantic retreat with candlelit restaurants lining the cobbled streets, offering gourmet experiences that celebrate local flavors. Enjoy a glass of wine at an intimate bar, discussing your day's adventures. Couples will relish the romantic atmosphere that envelops the area, highlighted by strategic viewpoints that provide breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Alps. With several boutique hotels providing an intimate atmosphere, Central Interlaken is not just a place to stay, but a destination to savor.

Best for City center
Walking route 5 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 100/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.9 · 1.1k reviews
Interlaken's Name from Two Lakes Named 'Interlaken' in 1891, situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Byron's Visit Boosted Tourism Lord Byron's visit in the early 1800s drew attention to Interlaken's beauty.
Victoria Jungfrau Views Impress Locals Locals recommend the view from Hotel Victoria Jungfrau's terrace.
Harderbahn: A Century-Old Funicular Since 1908, the Harderbahn funicular offers stunning views en route to Harder Kulm.
Central Interlaken

Self-guided walking tour Central Interlaken — First-Time Visitors (Interlaken, Switzerland)

~2.9 km · ~38 min · 5 stops
≈3,800 steps ≈143 kcal 3 h 23 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
OUTDOOR - Interlaken Ropes Park / Seilpark
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(946)
📍 Landmark
Adventure park with rope courses and zip lines
⏱ ~90 min · 🕐 Apr-May Mo-Fr 13:00-18:00; Apr-May Sa,Su 10:00-18:00; Jun Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Jul-Aug Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Sep-Oct Mo-Fr 13:00-18:00; Sep-Oct Sa,Su 10:00-18:00
1
Marktplatz Interlaken
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(57)
🎡 Attraction
Central market square with local charm
⏱ ~20 min ·
2
Aare Dam Viewpoint
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(155)
🔭 Viewpoint
Beautiful views of Aare River scenery
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Tu-Fr 08:30-12:00, 13:30-18:30; Sa 09:00-16:00
3
Yash Chopra Statue Yash Chopra
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(4.9k)
🗿 Monument
Iconic statue of filmmaker Yash Chopra
⏱ ~10 min
4
Höhematte Park
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(4.7k)
🌳 Park
Scenic park in the heart of Interlaken
⏱ ~30 min ·
5

Unterseen

Unterseen offers a delightful blend of history and romance that beckons couples seeking a more intimate stay. This charming old-town is filled with narrow streets and rustic architecture, echoing tales of a bygone era. Strolling through Unterseen, you'll be enveloped by a tranquil ambiance, a world away from the bustling vibes of Central Interlaken. Its picturesque setting is perfect for leisurely walks hand-in-hand, especially along the medieval streets leading to quaint shops and cozy cafés.

As evening descends, Unterseen's charm continues to captivate. Delight in gourmet dinners at snug restaurants, where the glow of candlelight enhances the culinary artistry presented on your plate. The sense of intimate neighborhood character complements the soothing backdrop of the nearby river, offering a serene evening of reflection and romance. Boutique hotels with personalized service ensure a romantic escape, making Unterseen the ideal choice for couples seeking solitude and history in equal measure.

Best for Old town charm
Walking route 4 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 100/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.6 · 2.4k reviews
Unterseen Means 'Between Lakes' Founded in 1279, its name reflects its location between lakes.
Stadtkirche: Centuries-Old Church Built in 1471, the Stadtkirche is a defining medieval landmark in Unterseen.
Unterseen's Corner Cafe is a Local Gem Locals favor the cozy Corner Cafe for traditional Swiss treats.
Zwyssig: Composer with Unterseen Ties Father Alberich Zwyssig, composer of Swiss Psalm, lived in Unterseen.
Unterseen

Self-guided walking tour Unterseen — First-Time Visitors (Interlaken, Switzerland)

~4.9 km · ~1 h 5 min · 4 stops
≈6,400 steps ≈244 kcal 4 h 10 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
OUTDOOR - Interlaken Ropes Park / Seilpark
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(946)
📍 Landmark
Adventure park with rope courses and zip lines
⏱ ~90 min · 🕐 Apr-May Mo-Fr 13:00-18:00; Apr-May Sa,Su 10:00-18:00; Jun Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Jul-Aug Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Sep-Oct Mo-Fr 13:00-18:00; Sep-Oct Sa,Su 10:00-18:00
1
Ruine Weissenau
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(458)
🏰 Castle
Explore the ruins of Ruine Weissenau
⏱ ~30 min
2
Thunersee Viewpoint
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(286)
📍 Landmark
Admire Thunersee Viewpoint
⏱ ~20 min
3
Naturschutzgebiet Weissenau
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(535)
📍 Landmark
Nature reserve with beautiful landscapes
⏱ ~45 min
4

Lake Thun (Thunersee)

For couples yearning for tranquility blended with natural beauty, Lake Thun provides an idyllic escape. The picturesque views of the shimmering lake, framed by majestic mountains, offer a backdrop that's perfect for romance. A stay near Lake Thun means starting your day with a refreshing lakeside walk, capturing the serene and peaceful environment that envelops the area. Dive into activities like gentle boat rides or visit the historic castles dotted around the shore, each offering a glimpse into Switzerland's rich past.

Evenings by Lake Thun are equally enchanting. Retreat to lakeside vineyards for a tasting of Switzerland's finest wines, as the sun casts its golden hue over the waters. Here, the serene surroundings provide countless opportunities to reconnect and create memories with your loved one. The accommodations near Lake Thun, from luxury resorts to cosy inns, boast intimate atmospheres, ensuring a stay that's as relaxing as it is romantic, making it an ideal location for those first-time visitors desiring picturesque views and a peaceful retreat.

Best for Picturesque vie
Walking route 2 stops · A few stops
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Luxury
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 100/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.3 · 1k reviews
Lake Thun: Home to Rare Fish Species Lake Thun is home to the endangered Thun trout species.
Nepomuk Bridge: A Historic Gem The Nepomuk Bridge, dating to 1789, showcases stunning views over Lake Thun.
Take the Hidden St. Beatus Caves Tour Locals recommend exploring the mystical St. Beatus Caves by Lake Thun.
Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Self-guided walking tour Lake Thun (Thunersee) — First-Time Visitors (Interlaken, Switzerland)

~38 m · ~1 min · 2 stops
≈2 kcal 1 h 31 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
St. Beatus Waterfall St. Beatus-Höhlen
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(399)
📍 Landmark
Discover the enchanting St. Beatus Waterfall
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 09:00-18:00; Fr-Sa 09:00-22:00; Su 09:00-18:00
1
St. Beatus-Höhlen, Swiss Caves
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(10k)
🎡 Attraction
Famous caves with guided tours available
⏱ ~60 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 09:00-18:00; Fr-Sa 09:00-22:00; Su 09:00-18:00
2

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

Lake Brienz offers a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters and tranquil lakeside paths, perfect for couples seeking calm and connection. The area is steeped in natural beauty, with a backdrop of dense forests and rolling hills adding to its allure. Couples can indulge in scenic boat cruises or wander through charming village streets, experiencing a slower pace of life.

The serene lakeside stays around Lake Brienz are ideal for unwinding. With several romantic accommodations offering panoramic views from private balconies or terraces, mornings here are akin to a retreat. Enjoy breakfast al fresco as you watch the sunrise over the mountains, setting the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation. Evening strolls by the lake, witnessing the sky painted with the colors of dusk, are an unforgettable experience. Lake Brienz is perfectly positioned for those who want the tranquil beauty of a lakeside stay within close proximity to Interlaken's travel links, ensuring both peace and accessibility.

Best for Scenic tranquil
Walking route 3 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 100/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.9 · 1.4k reviews
Giessbach Falls: Unbeatable Scenic Spot Accessible via ferry, Giessbach Falls is a breathtaking site near Lake Brienz.
Carlo Bossi: Brienz's Woodcarving Maestro Carlo Bossi, famed for intricate carvings, hailed from Brienz.
Brienz: Named for Celtic Settlers The village name 'Brienz' derives from the Celtic term 'Brig'.
Lake Brienz: UNESCO Acknowledged Water Clarity Renowned for its turquoise water, Lake Brienz is listed for pristine clarity.
Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

Self-guided walking tour Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) — First-Time Visitors (Interlaken, Switzerland)

~5.1 km · ~1 h 12 min · 3 stops
≈6,700 steps ≈256 kcal 3 h 42 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Giessbach Waterfalls Giessbach
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(5.5k)
🎡 Attraction
Majestic waterfalls cascading into Lake Brienz
⏱ ~60 min
1
Brienzer Uferpromenade
4.9★★★★★★★★★★(193)
🌳 Park
Charming lakeside park perfect for picnics
⏱ ~30 min ·
2
Pirate Bay Nautical Center + Hot Tub Boat (HotTug)
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(712)
📍 Landmark
Unique nautical experience with Hot Tub Boat
⏱ ~60 min
3

Best time to visit Interlaken (Switzerland)

Now (July) avg: 18°C, wetter month, full season — expect crowds. Best months to walk: Feb & Oct.

Live Temp
~Day / Night Temp 23°C / 14°C
Sunrise / Sunset 5:48 / 21:21
Local time 8:12
Best Months Feb & Oct
J Jan F Feb best month M Mar A Apr M May J Jun J Jul this month A Aug S Sep O Oct best month N Nov D Dec
Check Interlaken hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Interlaken guides →

Best Hotels in Interlaken for First-Time Visitors

Explore these top-rated romantic retreats in Interlaken, perfect for couples embarking on their first journey to this picturesque destination.
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
Best overall
9.3 Outstanding
647 reviews

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Echoing the charm of Lake Thun, this exclusive hotel combines grandeur with state-of-the-art spa facilities, offering couples an indulgent and serene experience amid breathtaking landscapes.

Ideal for: Lavish lakeside getaway seekers
Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken
Best for couples
8.4 Very Good
432 reviews

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Situated centrally with picturesque river views, this hotel provides elegant rooms and an intimate atmosphere, ideal for romantic evenings or leisurely strolls by the river.

Ideal for: Lovers of scenic riverside walks
Post Hardermannli
Top pick
8.6 Excellent
1562 reviews

Post Hardermannli

Located in the quaint district of Unterseen, this hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a charming local touch, perfect for romantic escapes and exploring genuine Swiss culture.

Ideal for: Couples exploring Swiss culture
SALZANO Hotel - Spa - Restaurant
Smart choice
8.5 Excellent
788 reviews

SALZANO Hotel - Spa - Restaurant

Nestled in the serene landscape of Unterseen, SALZANO is a haven for relaxation with its nature-inspired spa and intimate dining experiences, perfect for unwinding together.

Ideal for: Relaxation amidst nature
BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel
Central location
9.3 Outstanding
356 reviews

BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel

Situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Thun, the hotel offers a rejuvenating spa, breathtaking lake views, and elegant dining, making it an ideal spot for romantic escapes.

Ideal for: Couples seeking lakeside relaxation
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
Hidden gem
9.3 Outstanding
646 reviews

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Echoing the charm of Lake Thun, this exclusive hotel combines grandeur with state-of-the-art spa facilities, offering couples an indulgent and serene experience amid breathtaking landscapes.

Ideal for: Lavish lakeside getaway seekers
Seiler au Lac
Boutique stay
9 Outstanding
363 reviews

Seiler au Lac

Offering outstanding panoramic views across Lake Brienz, this peaceful hotel features comfortable rooms and intimate dining options, perfect for unwinding and soaking up the natural beauty.

Ideal for: Nature-loving couples
Boutique Hotel Bellevue B&B am Brienzersee Iseltwald Interlaken
Walkable area
8.7 Excellent
1062 reviews

Boutique Hotel Bellevue B&B am Brienzersee Iseltwald Interlaken

Positioned on the idyllic Lake Brienz, this boutique B&B offers lakeside charm with cozy settings, perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway with a personalized experience.

Ideal for: Intimate boutique escape lovers

Secure your romantic getaway

Plan ahead and reserve your dream visit. Popular hotels fill up quickly!

Compare Interlaken Hotels for First-Time Visitors

Easily compare the best romantic stays for your first visit.
Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken
Best for couples
8.4 Very Good
432 reviews

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Central • River Views
Elegant stay beside the river
River Views
Stunning river views
Restaurants
Fine dining options
Central Location
Accessible to sights
Post Hardermannli
Top pick
8.6 Excellent
1562 reviews

Post Hardermannli

Unterseen • Cozy • Local Vibe
Authentic Swiss experience
Local Vibe
Charming neighborhood
Restaurants
Nearby dining
Budget Friendly
Affordable stay

Traditional Local Food Interlaken (Switzerland)

Local Flavours of Interlaken — Explore recipes, history, our unique food flavour DNA graph and more.

Main course Vegetarian

Alplermagronen

Älplermagronen
UHL-phlur-mah-GROH-nen

A hearty pasta and potato dish topped with melted cheese and onions.

Main course Meat

Berner Platte

BEHR-ner PLAH-tuh

A platter of mixed meats and sausages with sauerkraut.

Main course Vegetarian

Cheese Fondue

Fondue au fromage
fon-DOO oh froh-MAHJ

A pot of melted cheese served with bread cubes for dipping.

Main course Vegetarian

Raclette

rah-KLET

Melted cheese served over boiled potatoes, often with pickles and onions.

Side dish Vegetarian

Rösti

RUR-stee

Crispy fried potato dish, often served as a side or breakfast.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Main course Meat

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

TSOO-ruh-kuh GESH-net-zull-tuhs

A creamy veal ragout flavored with white wine and cream.

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Interlaken

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

City & Country Data Switzerland (Interlaken)

Key travel data for Interlaken — cost of living, safety, healthcare, local currency and essentials, curated by Triplandio.

Cost 💰 LOW
Safety 🔒 100
Health 🏥 100
Lifestyle 66
Infra 🏗️ 100
Rank 🎯 #3
Score 📊 70
Tourists ✈️ 11.8M/y
GDP/cap 💵 $114.8k
Life Exp ❤️ 84.4 yrs
Population 👥 9.1M
Currency 💱 CHF Fr
Language 🗣️ German
Payments 💳 Cards OK
Emergency 🆘 112
Coffee $5.00
Beer 🍺 $7.50
Lunch 🍽️ $35.00
Groceries 🛒 $70.00/w
Taxi/km 🚕 $5.00
Transit 🚇 $3.50
Fuel $1.80/l
Internet 📡 $60.00/m
Salary 💵 $6,035/m

Interlaken stay tips for First-Time Visitors

Luxury in the Heart

Opt for a luxury hotel near Höheweg. This area offers boutique shopping and intimate dining options, ideal for couples seeking a refined experience.

Tip: Höheweg luxury stay highlight

Couple Spa Treats

Book a hotel with a spa in Matten for a rejuvenating couples' day. Enjoy facials, massages, and relaxing time in saunas, all tailored for two.

Tip: Spa delights for two in Matten

Dinner with a View

Dine at Harder Kulm, offering sweeping views of Interlaken and beyond. Make it a memorable evening with exquisite cuisine and a breathtaking sunset.

Tip: Sunset dinner at Harder Kulm

Interlaken for First-Time Visitors: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Interlaken?

The best time to visit Interlaken is February and October — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

What is the most romantic area in Interlaken for couples?

The Höheweg area offers a scenic promenade with spectacular mountain views, boutique shops, and intimate dining spots, perfect for a romantic stroll.

Where are the best luxury hotels in Interlaken?

Luxury hotels like Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa in the Höheweg offer elegant rooms, spa services, and fine dining, ideal for a romantic escape.

Which hotels offer the best couple spa experiences?

The Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage offers extensive spa facilities and serene environments that are perfect for couples seeking relaxation.

What are the top attractions near luxury hotels in Interlaken?

Luxury hotels in Interlaken are close to attractions like Harder Kulm for sunset views, and Aare River for romantic walks.

Where can couples enjoy a romantic dinner in Interlaken?

Restaurants like La Terrasse and Restaurant Taverne offer candlelit settings and exquisite cuisine, ideal for a romantic dinner.

Discover Interlaken for First-Time Visitors

Best for First-Time Visitors
In this guide, uncover the best luxury accommodations in Interlaken tailored for couples seeking intimacy and adventure. Explore scenic viewpoints, candlelit dinners, and boutique spots to craft unforgettable moments together.
  • Handpicked hotels
  • Romantic escapes
  • All budgets covered
  • Updated 2026
EuropeSwitzerlandInterlakenWhere to Stay in Interlaken for First-Time Visitors
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