Lake Brienz | Interlaken

Lake Brienz (or Brienzersee in German) is another stunning Swiss lake located in the Bernese Oberland region, nestled between the town of Brienz and Interlaken. Known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and dramatic surrounding landscapes, Lake Brienz offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers, adventurers, and those looking to experience traditional Swiss culture.

Key Features of Lake Brienz

Location and Scenic Beauty

• Lake Brienz lies at the foot of the Brienz Rothorn Mountain and is surrounded by towering peaks, deep green forests, and picturesque villages. The lake is approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) long and 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) wide. Its waters are particularly striking for their vibrant turquoise color, a result of glacial meltwater flowing into the lake.
• The backdrop of snow-capped Alpine peaks, such as the Finsteraarhorn and Schreckhorn, provides dramatic scenery throughout the year, making it a popular spot for photographers.

Brienz Town

• The town of Brienz, located at the northern tip of Lake Brienz, is a charming Swiss village known for its traditional wood carving heritage. The town has a picturesque lakeside promenade, colorful wooden houses, and a rich history in woodwork craftsmanship.
• Brienz is home to the Swiss Woodcarving Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s century-old tradition of carving intricate wooden sculptures and designs.

Boat Cruises

• One of the most popular ways to explore Lake Brienz is by taking a boat cruise. Several companies operate boat tours around the lake, with routes offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and quaint lakeside villages.
• Boat cruises often stop at scenic towns such as Iseltwald, known for its historic church and lakeside views, and Giessbach, famous for the Giessbach Waterfalls (a stunning cascade that drops dramatically into the lake).
• Cruises provide a relaxing way to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and villages, and they often offer multi-stop options to explore different parts of the lake.

Giessbach Waterfalls

• One of the standout attractions on Lake Brienz is the Giessbach Waterfalls, located near the Giessbach Hotel. This series of waterfalls cascades down from the Brienz Rothorn mountain and tumbles into Lake Brienz. The falls can be seen from the lake, but visitors can also hike up to the top to view the waterfalls from different perspectives.
• The Giessbach Hotel, a historic luxury hotel, sits next to the waterfalls and offers incredible views of the lake. The area around the falls is popular for walking and hiking, with well-maintained trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints.

Outdoor Activities

• Lake Brienz is a popular destination for outdoor activities. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy swimming, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake’s clear waters make it perfect for water sports, and many rental shops along the shore offer equipment for these activities.
• Hiking and mountain biking are also popular activities in the area, with many scenic trails leading through forests and up the nearby mountains, including the Brienz Rothorn. Hiking up to the summit of Brienz Rothorn offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.

Brienz Rothorn Railway

• The Brienz Rothorn Railway is a historic steam cogwheel railway that takes visitors from Brienz to the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain at 2,350 meters (7,710 feet) above sea level. The railway journey is a unique experience, passing through lush forests and offering incredible views of the lake and the Bernese Alps. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Brienz, the surrounding peaks, and the rest of the region.
• The summit of Brienz Rothorn is also a popular starting point for more challenging hikes and offers opportunities for snow sports during the winter.

Iseltwald

• Iseltwald, a small village located on the shores of Lake Brienz, is known for its charming atmosphere and picturesque setting. The village is a great place to enjoy a peaceful retreat, with scenic views of the lake and the mountains. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy local Swiss cuisine at one of the lakeside restaurants, or rent a boat to explore the lake at their own pace.
• Iseltwald is also known for its wooden chalets and the Church of Iseltwald, a picturesque building with a whitewashed façade and a quaint bell tower.

Outdoor Adventures and Hiking Trails

• Lake Brienz and its surrounding areas are home to numerous hiking and biking trails that range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain hikes. Some of the popular trails include:
  • The Brienz to Giessbach Trail: A scenic trail that follows the shoreline of Lake Brienz, leading to the Giessbach Waterfalls.
  • The Brienz Rothorn Mountain Trails: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, there are various trails that lead to the summit of Brienz Rothorn, offering stunning views of the lake and the Alps.
  • The Hohfluh Plateau: An easy hike from Iseltwald that offers great views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it suitable for families and beginners.

Winter Activities

• In winter, Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains turn into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and skiing in nearby resorts such as Axalp and Brienz Rothorn. The quiet, snowy landscapes make it an ideal location for those looking for a peaceful winter retreat.
• Winter cruises on the lake also offer a magical experience, with the snowy peaks and winter light creating a serene atmosphere. The nearby town of Brienz is also decorated for the holiday season, adding to the festive charm.

Local Cuisine and Dining

• The villages and towns around Lake Brienz offer a variety of Swiss dining options, from traditional Swiss restaurants serving rösti, fondue, and raclette, to lakeside cafés where you can enjoy a coffee with a view of the lake.
• Brienz and Iseltwald are particularly known for their lakeside restaurants, where you can try local specialties while soaking in the views.

How to Get There

By Train: Lake Brienz is easily accessible by train from Interlaken and Brienz. The Interlaken Ost station is well-connected to the rest of Switzerland, and from there, you can take a short train ride to Brienz or a boat to explore the lake.

By Boat: Boat cruises depart from Interlaken and Brienz and are an excellent way to see the lake from a different perspective.

By Car: Driving around Lake Brienz is an option, and there are several scenic routes that offer spectacular views of the lake and the mountains.

Conclusion

Lake Brienz is a stunning destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and Swiss culture. Whether you enjoy cruising on the lake, hiking through the surrounding mountains, or exploring the quaint villages along its shores, Lake Brienz provides an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers. The clear turquoise waters, the towering Alps, and the peaceful villages make Lake Brienz an ideal place to unwind, explore, and connect with nature.