11 Best Things To Do in Brienz, Switzerland 🇨🇭: Best Attractions

Are you dreaming of a Swiss escape where turquoise lakes meet snow-capped peaks and every corner feels like a postcard? Then you’re in the right place! This travel guide is your personal roadmap to Brienz and Lake Brienz—one of Switzerland’s most stunning and soulful regions. I’ve packed this article with everything you need to know before you go: the absolute best things to do, local secrets, family-friendly adventures, must-try activities, and even those free gems only locals seem to know about.

🏡 Where to stay in Brienz:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Grandhotel Giessbach
• 🏨 4-Star: Spirit Apartments - Balkon mit Seesicht - Parkplatz
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Lindenhof by Crossworld AG
• 💸 Cheap: Brienz Youth Hostel
• 🏢 Apartment: Hotel Lindenhof by Crossworld AG
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel Brienz
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Brienzerburli

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

• Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz from € 142 (⭐5.0/5)
• From Lausanne: Interlaken and Jetboat Ride on Lake Brienz from € 260 (⭐4.8/5)
• Lake Brienz Half-Day E-Bike Tour From Interlaken With Lunch from € 210 (⭐4.9/5)
• Phototour Photoshoot at the Lake Brienz, Iseltwald, Interlaken from € 95 (⭐5.0/5)
• Lake Brienz Boat Tour for a Full Day from € 580 (⭐4.9/5)

Best Things To Do in Brienz

1. Giessbach Waterfalls

Natural spectacle. Standing beneath the thundering Giessbach Falls, I felt the refreshing spray on my face as the water cascaded down 14 magnificent tiers before plunging into the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. This impressive waterfall is one of Switzerland’s most photogenic natural wonders, and I was mesmerized by how the water danced down the mountainside, creating a constant symphony of sounds that echoed through the surrounding forest.

Behind the falls experience. One of my favorite parts of visiting Giessbach was walking the trail that actually takes you behind one of the waterfall sections. The sensation of standing safely behind the roaring curtain of water while gazing out at the stunning panorama of Lake Brienz is absolutely unforgettable. I recommend taking the short 20-minute circular trail that starts near the Grandhotel Giessbach for the best waterfall views from different perspectives.

Historic funicular. To reach the falls, I took the charming vintage funicular railway from the Giessbach See boat landing. This nostalgic cable car climbs 93 meters along a 345-meter track, whisking you through the forest in just four minutes. While you can hike up for free, I found the funicular ride added to the romantic atmosphere of the whole experience. Consider walking down from the falls instead of taking the funicular round-trip to save money and enjoy different views of the lower cascades.

2. Lake Brienz

Turquoise jewel. The moment I first laid eyes on Lake Brienz, I was stunned by its extraordinary color – a vibrant turquoise that almost seems unreal. This stunning hue comes from what locals call “glacier milk,” tiny particles of rock ground down by glaciers and carried into the lake by mountain streams. I spent hours just sitting on the lakeside promenade in Brienz, watching how the water’s color shifted with changing light and enjoying the free deck chairs thoughtfully provided along the shore.

Cruise adventures. Taking a boat cruise on Lake Brienz was definitely a highlight of my visit. I boarded at Interlaken Ost and spent a leisurely hour gliding across the pristine waters to Brienz village, passing charming lakeside settlements and dramatic mountain backdrops along the way. The upper deck offered spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding Bernese Oberland peaks. If you’re planning multiple boat trips, consider a day ticket for Lake Brienz which allows unlimited travel and is more economical than buying individual tickets.

Water activities. Despite the lake’s glacier origins, I was surprised to find Lake Brienz warm enough for swimming during summer months. The lakefront areas offer several spots for taking a refreshing dip, and I particularly enjoyed the public beaches in Brienz village. For the more adventurous, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding rentals are available – I tried kayaking and found it a magical way to explore hidden coves and get close-up views of the shoreline that you simply can’t experience from land or larger boats.

⭐ Best activities

• See It All Sightseeing Tour All Tickets included Private – You will see all there is to see and experience. From low to high terrain, from caves to raging mountain water streams. Sometimes, we witness avalanches. The trip takes place in a small eco-friendly 2-door car, which runs on biofuel made from grass. Furthermore, by choosing this experience, you help fund clean tech projects.

3. Wildpark Brienz

Animal encounters. Tucked away on the hillside above Brienz, I discovered the charming Wildpark Brienz, a small but delightful wildlife park that’s home to native Swiss animals. Walking through the well-maintained grounds, I came face-to-face with gentle deer, curious goats, and even spotted some magnificent owls. What makes this place special is how close you can get to the animals – for just 1 CHF, I purchased a box of animal feed and had deer eating right from my hand, creating a magical connection with these beautiful creatures.

Scenic viewpoint. After exploring the wildlife park, I followed a local’s advice and walked just five minutes down the main road to find a small path leading to a gazebo with one of the most breathtaking views of Lake Brienz I’d seen during my entire trip. The panoramic vista of the turquoise lake surrounded by towering mountains was absolutely worth the short detour. Unlike many attractions in Switzerland, Wildpark Brienz is completely free to visit, making it a perfect activity for travelers watching their spending.

Family-friendly outing. I noticed families with children particularly enjoying the Wildpark. The compact size means little legs won’t get too tired, and the excitement of feeding and observing animals up close keeps kids thoroughly engaged. The park is open year-round, and I found it refreshingly uncrowded compared to more famous Swiss attractions. There’s limited parking (just 2-3 spaces) by the roadside near the entrance, so consider taking the 15-minute uphill walk from Brienz village instead, which offers lovely views along the way.

4. Axalp

Mountain escape. Driving up to Axalp from Brienz was an adventure in itself, with each hairpin turn revealing increasingly spectacular views of Lake Brienz far below. This small mountain hamlet sits about 30 minutes above Brienz and offers a peaceful retreat from the more touristy areas. I immediately noticed the crisp mountain air and sense of tranquility that pervades this alpine setting. The panoramic views from Axalp are simply unbeatable – on clear days, you can see not only the entirety of Lake Brienz but also the surrounding peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

Woodcarving Trail. The highlight of my visit to Axalp was undoubtedly the famous Woodcarving Trail (Schnitzlerweg) that leads to the hidden Hinterburgseeli lake. This unique path showcases over 100 incredible wood sculptures carved from trees damaged during the “avalanche winter” and the subsequent storm Lothar. As I walked the trail, I discovered everything from intricately carved animals to whimsical forest creatures, all created by master carvers from the renowned Brienz woodcarving tradition. The 2-3 hour round-trip hike is relatively easy with only about 100 meters of elevation change, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

Alpine lake reward. After about 1.5 hours of gentle hiking along the sculpture-lined path, I reached the serene Hinterburgseeli, a small alpine lake nestled in a picturesque setting. The combination of the artistic woodcarvings, mountain scenery, and peaceful lake created a magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else I’ve visited in Switzerland.

Things to Do in Brienz with Kids

1. Brienz Rothorn Bahn

Steam train adventure. The moment my nephew’s eyes lit up at the sight of the historic steam locomotive puffing into Brienz station, I knew we were in for a magical day. The Brienz Rothorn Bahn is not just a mode of transportation – it’s a journey back in time that captivates children’s imaginations. As we climbed aboard the bright red carriages, the excitement was palpable. The vintage steam engine huffed and puffed as it began its ascent, creating clouds of steam that delighted the kids who pressed their faces against the windows to watch the spectacle.

Scenic wonders. During our hour-long journey to the summit, we passed through verdant forests and tunnels, with the landscape gradually transforming around us. The train made a brief stop at Planalp station, where we watched the locomotive refill its water tank – a fascinating process that had the children asking endless questions about how steam engines work. As we continued climbing, the breathtaking panorama of turquoise Lake Brienz and the surrounding Bernese Oberland mountains unfolded beneath us. The children were absolutely mesmerized by the changing views, pointing excitedly at every new discovery.

Summit exploration. Reaching Rothorn Kulm at 2,350 meters was the highlight of our adventure. The kids immediately raced to the viewpoint to count how many mountain peaks they could see. We spent a wonderful few hours exploring the summit trails, enjoying Swiss specialties at the Berghaus restaurant, and taking countless photos with the magnificent alpine backdrop.

2. Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum

Living history. Walking through the gates of the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum with my young cousins was like stepping into a storybook about Swiss rural life. This sprawling 66-hectare museum features over 100 authentic buildings from all regions of Switzerland, each meticulously reconstructed to preserve the country’s architectural heritage. What makes this place truly special for children is that it’s not a “look but don’t touch” museum – it’s a hands-on experience where kids can freely explore historic houses, peek into centuries-old kitchens, and even try traditional crafts themselves.

Animal encounters. The delighted squeals from my cousins as they spotted the first farmyard animals told me this would be their favorite part of Ballenberg. The museum is home to over 200 native farm animals, including goats, sheep, cows, and chickens, many of which roam freely throughout the grounds. The dedicated petting area next to the main playground was an instant hit, where the children spent nearly an hour gently stroking goats and learning about animal care from the knowledgeable staff.

Interactive play. What truly sets Ballenberg apart for families is the abundance of hands-on activities and play opportunities scattered throughout the museum. My cousins were thrilled to discover they could pretend to cook in historical kitchens, try on traditional clothing, and even participate in a mock school lesson in an old schoolhouse. The two dedicated playgrounds became our refueling stations between explorations – one in the center featuring climbing structures and an authentic vintage carousel, and another hidden in the woods with a short adventure trail and a playhouse.

⭐ Best activities

• Experience Switzerland in the Ballenberg open-air museum – The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is the only open-air museum in Switzerland. Here you can experience Switzerland as it used to be. Look over the shoulder of our craftsmen and women, peek into the parlors and kitchens of over 100 Ballenberg buildings, enjoy the cultivated cultural landscape and make friends with our more than 200 farm animals.

Free Things to Do in Brienz

1. Hinterburgseeli

Hidden gem. Tucked away above Brienz lies one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets – the enchanting Hinterburgseeli lake. I discovered this magical spot last summer while exploring the Axalp region, and it instantly became my favorite free attraction in the area. What makes this place truly special is how it reveals itself – you can only see the lake when you’re almost at its shores. The moment I first glimpsed its blue-green waters gleaming through the surrounding pine trees, with the dramatic rock bands of Oltschiburg rising behind it, I felt like I’d stumbled upon a hidden paradise.

Woodcarving trail. The journey to Hinterburgseeli is as rewarding as the destination itself. The famous “Schnitzlerweg” (woodcarving trail) that leads to the lake features over 100 unique wooden sculptures carved from trees damaged during the severe storms. As I walked the path, I encountered everything from playful dwarves and jumping fish to a boy “peeing” in the forest that made me laugh out loud. These artworks were created by students and masters from Brienz’s renowned woodcarving school – the only one of its kind in Switzerland. The trail is relatively flat, making it perfect for families and casual hikers alike.

Nature reserve experience. Upon reaching the Hinterburgseeli, I was struck by its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This privately owned nature reserve offers several fire pits and picnic areas where I enjoyed my packed lunch while watching fish dart through the clear waters. On warm summer days, brave visitors can even take a refreshing dip in the lake.

2. Brienzer Uferpromenade

Lakeside beauty. Walking along Brienz’s lakeside promenade was one of the most peaceful experiences of my Swiss travels. This picturesque walkway stretches approximately 2.23 kilometers along the shoreline of Lake Brienz, offering uninterrupted views of the turquoise waters and surrounding Alpine peaks. What struck me immediately was the vibrant color of the lake – a surreal turquoise created by what locals call “glacier milk,” tiny particles of rock ground down by glaciers and carried into the lake by mountain streams. The promenade is dotted with comfortable red benches and free deck chairs where I spent hours simply watching the changing light play across the water’s surface.

Artistic touches. As I strolled along the Brienzer Uferpromenade, I was delighted to discover various art installations and sculptures that add character to this already beautiful path. The promenade passes charming little boat harbors where traditional wooden vessels bob gently in the water, creating perfect photo opportunities with the mountains as backdrop. What makes this lakefront walk unique is that such well-developed promenades are rare at other Swiss lakes.

Swimming spots. Despite the lake’s glacial origins, I was pleasantly surprised to find Lake Brienz warm enough for swimming during my summer visit. Along the promenade, I discovered several access points with stairs leading directly into the crystal-clear water. Taking a refreshing dip with the panorama of mountains surrounding me was an unforgettable experience.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

Festive markets. The Brienz Christmas Market transformed the village into a winter wonderland when I visited last December. Held annually on the first weekend of Advent in the historic Brunngasse (often called Switzerland’s most beautiful street), this intimate market features around 40 stalls selling handcrafted wooden ornaments, local delicacies, and steaming mugs of glühwein. The scent of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts, and pine needles filled the air as I wandered between stalls illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.

Winter lake cruises. One of my most magical Brienz experiences was taking a special Christmas fondue cruise on Lake Brienz. These festive evening cruises operate on select dates throughout December and combine two quintessential Swiss experiences – a boat ride on the turquoise waters and a traditional cheese fondue dinner. As we glided across the dark lake, the surrounding mountains dusted with snow and the shoreline villages twinkling with Christmas lights, I savored every bite of bubbling cheese and crusty bread.

Advent celebrations. The annual “Advent Windows” tradition in Brienz captivated me with its charm and community spirit. Each evening from December 1-24, a different home or business unveils a decorated window, creating a progressive village-wide advent calendar. I joined locals one evening as they gathered at 6pm for the unveiling, followed by complimentary mulled wine and homemade treats. The windows remain illuminated each night until December 26, creating a magical walking tour through the village.

Summer

Water adventures. Summer in Brienz centers around its stunning turquoise lake, and I took full advantage of the water activities available. Renting a kayak from Hightide Kayak School near the Brienz boat station gave me the freedom to explore hidden corners of Lake Brienz at my own pace. Paddling along the shoreline, I discovered secluded beaches and got up-close views of the magnificent Giessbach Falls cascading directly into the lake. For those seeking more excitement, jet boat rides operate from the Interlaken end of the lake, offering a thrilling high-speed experience with 360° spins and breathtaking scenery.

Mountain festivals. My summer visit coincided with the colorful Brienz Yodeling Festival, held every three years in July. The village came alive with traditional Swiss culture as yodelers in authentic costumes performed throughout the weekend. Even in non-festival years, summer brings weekly Alpine horn concerts to the Brienz Rothorn summit station (every Sunday from mid-June to mid-September). The annual Swiss National Day celebrations on August 1st are particularly spectacular in Brienz, with bonfires lit along the mountainsides and fireworks reflected in the lake.

Hiking season. Summer opens up countless hiking possibilities around Brienz, and I took advantage of the perfect weather to explore the network of well-marked trails. The Brienz-Axalp-Faulhorn-First route was challenging but rewarded me with some of Switzerland’s most spectacular alpine scenery. More accessible was the Brienz-Schwanden-Giessbach Falls trail, which offered stunning lake views throughout the 3-hour journey.

Spring

Flower trails. Visiting Brienz in late April, I witnessed the magical transformation as winter receded and the landscape burst into bloom. The Brunngasse, Brienz’s famous historic street, was particularly charming with window boxes overflowing with vibrant red geraniums against the backdrop of centuries-old wooden chalets. I followed the recommendation of a local shopkeeper and hiked the Brienz-Schwanden trail, where alpine wildflowers created colorful carpets along the path. The contrast of delicate purple crocuses and yellow primroses against the still-snow-capped mountains created stunning photo opportunities at every turn.

Cultural awakenings. Spring marks the reopening of many seasonal attractions around Brienz. I timed my visit to coincide with the annual reopening of the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum in mid-April. This living museum showcases traditional Swiss rural life with over 100 historic buildings and special spring demonstrations of traditional crafts like cheese-making and weaving. The museum felt particularly alive in spring, with newborn farm animals and craftspeople preparing for the summer season.

Easter traditions. Easter weekend in Brienz introduced me to unique local traditions I hadn’t encountered elsewhere in Switzerland. The village’s Easter market (held on the Saturday before Easter) featured intricately decorated eggs, spring-themed woodcarvings, and festive treats like “Osterfladen”. On Easter Sunday, I joined locals for the charming “Eiertütschen” tradition in the village square – a competitive egg-tapping game where participants knock hard-boiled eggs against each other until only one uncracked egg remains. The winner is said to have good luck for the coming year.

Autumn

Foliage spectacle. Autumn transformed Brienz into a canvas of fiery colors during my October visit, creating what I consider the most photogenic season in this already picturesque region. The deciduous forests covering the lower mountain slopes turned brilliant shades of gold, orange and red, creating a stunning contrast with the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. For the most dramatic autumn views, I took the Brienz Rothorn Railway to the summit, where the panorama of fall colors stretching across the entire region was simply breathtaking.

Harvest festivals. My autumn visit coincided with the annual Brienz Harvest Market (held the first Saturday in October), where local farmers and artisans gathered in the village center to sell seasonal produce, homemade preserves, and traditional crafts. In nearby Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, the annual Harvest Festival (late September) brought the historical buildings to life with demonstrations of traditional harvest activities like threshing grain, pressing fruit, and preparing foods for winter storage.

Hiking perfection. Autumn offered what locals assured me was the best hiking weather of the year around Brienz – clear, crisp days with stable conditions and fewer crowds on the trails. I took advantage of this perfect combination to hike the panoramic Hardergrat Trail, which provided spectacular views of Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters framed by autumn foliage. The cooler temperatures made the ascent more comfortable, and the visibility was exceptional, allowing me to see as far as the Jungfrau massif on clear days.

Day Trips from Brienz

1. Bern

Capital charm. Escaping the tranquil shores of Lake Brienz for a day in Switzerland’s capital city offered a perfect contrast to my mountain adventures. The journey to Bern took just under 1 hour and 23 minutes by direct train, with several convenient departures throughout the day. Stepping off the train into Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, I was immediately struck by the medieval architecture and the distinctive covered arcades that stretch for six kilometers. These arcades, known locally as “Lauben,” allowed me to explore the city comfortably even during a brief spring shower.

Bear encounters. No visit to Bern would be complete without seeing the city’s namesake animals. I spent a delightful half-hour at the Bärenpark (Bear Park), watching the resident bears roam their spacious enclosure along the banks of the Aare River. The park is thoughtfully designed to give the bears a natural environment while allowing visitors excellent viewing opportunities. After observing these magnificent creatures, I crossed the nearby Nydeggbrücke (bridge) to explore the eastern part of the Old Town, where I discovered charming cafés tucked away in quiet corners.

Cultural treasures. The highlight of my Bern day trip was exploring the Einstein Museum, housed within the Bern Historical Museum. Einstein developed his theory of relativity while living in Bern, and the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into his life and work through interactive exhibits. I spent nearly two hours absorbed in the displays before heading to the Zytglogge, Bern’s famous medieval clock tower. Arriving just before the hour, I joined a small crowd to watch the charming mechanical figures perform their routine as the clock struck three.

⭐ Best tours

• Bern Like a Local: Customized Private Tour – Join a Lokafyer guide in Bern for a private walking tour that’s a new concept in travel. Exploring with a Bern local is less like a traditional tour, and more like having a friend to show you around, share tips on the area, and give personalized recommendations. From a pre-tour consultation by phone or chat to the walking tour itself, the entire experience is tailored to you.
• Guided Walking Tour in Bern – Get a comprehensive overview of Bern on this 2-hour walking tour, ideal for first-timers in the de-facto capital. Get an intimate glimpse of local landmarks like the Bear Pit and Zytglogge Tower as you explore on foot and benefit from expert insights and personalized attention from your small-group guide.

2. First – Grindelwald

Alpine adventure. My day trip to Grindelwald First turned out to be the most thrilling excursion of my Swiss vacation. Getting there from Brienz was straightforward – a 1-hour train ride to Grindelwald with a single transfer, followed by a short walk to the First gondola station. As the gondola climbed steadily upward for 25 minutes, the panoramic views of the Grindelwald valley and the imposing north face of the Eiger mountain left me speechless. Arriving at the summit station, I understood immediately why First is nicknamed the “Top of Adventure” – the combination of breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities makes it a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Cliff Walk courage. Stepping onto the First Cliff Walk tested my courage in the most exhilarating way. This metal walkway clings to the rock face, extending out to a viewing platform that seems to float in mid-air. With my heart pounding, I inched along the narrow path, gripping the railing tightly as I gazed down at the dizzying drop below. The reward was worth every nervous step – a 360-degree panorama of alpine peaks, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

Lake reflection. Following the signs from First station, I embarked on the relatively easy hike to Bachalpsee, often called the “Blue Jewel of the Alps.” The 3-kilometer trail (about an hour each way) led me through alpine meadows dotted with spring wildflowers and grazing dairy cows wearing traditional bells that created a gentle soundtrack for my journey. When Bachalpsee finally came into view, I gasped audibly – the small alpine lake perfectly reflected the snow-capped mountains like a natural mirror, creating one of the most photogenic scenes I’ve ever witnessed.

⭐ Best activities

• Grindelwald First Ticket incl. Cliff Walk – Embark on a self-guided alpine adventure with a Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket. Explore the majestic landscapes at your own pace, traverse thrilling walkways, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Grindelwald First.

3. Interlaken

Gateway position. Situated just 25 minutes from Brienz by bus or a scenic 1 hour and 15 minutes by ferry across Lake Brienz, Interlaken serves as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the Bernese Oberland region. I opted for the ferry journey on a sunny April morning, which offered spectacular views of the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Interlaken’s name literally means “between lakes” – it sits on a narrow stretch of land between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, creating a unique geographical setting that I found absolutely captivating.

Höhematte park. My first stop in Interlaken was the expansive Höhematte park, a 14-hectare open space in the heart of town. I was immediately struck by the unusual sight of paragliders landing right in the middle of town – dozens of colorful canopies floating down from the surrounding mountains throughout the day. The park offers unobstructed views of the Jungfrau mountain, and I spent a peaceful hour simply sitting on one of the benches, watching the paragliders land while enjoying the alpine panorama.

Harder Kulm views. The absolute highlight of my Interlaken visit was taking the funicular up to Harder Kulm, known as the “Top of Interlaken” at 1,322 meters above sea level. The bright red funicular whisked me up in just 8 minutes, climbing 731 meters in the process. At the top, I made my way to the famous Zwei-see-steg viewing platform, a structure that juts out over the mountainside offering heart-stopping views of both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, as well as the towns of Interlaken and Untersee nestled between them.

⭐ Best tours

• Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken – Paraglide above the Swiss Alp peaks on a tandem flight with transport from Interlaken. At the launch spot in Beatenberg, listen to a safety talk with a small group of no more than 10 people, and then take off with a guide. Gaze down at Lake Thun and the snowy summits of the Jungfrau as you soar above the alpine landscape; the views are as breathtaking as the flight.
• Interlaken Valley E-Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes, Forests & Castles – Ride around the countryside that surrounds Interlaken without any effort, taking this electric bike tour. With a motor that kicks in when you need extra help, the e-bike offers a relaxing way to make the most of the great outdoors. You’ll ride in a group of no more than 10 cyclists, on a route around Interlaken, Unterseen, and Wilderswil that checks off rivers, lakes, woodland, and castle ruins.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to the village of Brienz and Brienzersee?

It’s easy to reach Brienz by train—just hop on a direct Zentralbahn train from Interlaken Ost or Luzern. The Brienz train station is right in the heart of the charming village, close to the lake and all main attractions. If you’re traveling by car, Brienz is located in the canton of Bern and is well connected by scenic mountain passes.

What makes Brienz and Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) special?

Brienz is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages, set on the shores of a gorgeous lake surrounded by the Swiss Alps. The area is famous for its wood carving tradition, turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere. The best attractions include the Brienzer Rothorn, the woodcarving school, and the lakeside promenade.

Can I use the Berner Oberland Pass or Swiss Travel Pass here?

Yes! Many Brienz activities, like cruises around Lake Brienz and train rides to Interlaken, are free with the Berner Oberland Pass or covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. This makes travel plans much easier and more affordable if you want to explore different parts of Switzerland.

What is the Brienzer Rothorn and how do I get there?

The Brienzer Rothorn is a famous mountain peak above Brienz, offering panoramic views of the Alps and both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You can reach the top by taking the historic steam cog railway from Brienz train station—an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The journey takes about an hour, and you’ll reach the summit at 2,350 meters.

What can I do around Lake Brienz and nearby?

Around the lake, you’ll find water sports, hiking trails, and scenic boat cruises that connect the lake’s villages. Don’t miss a stop for lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants or the grand hotel near the Giessbach Waterfalls. The beautiful village of Iseltwald, close to Brienz, is perfect for a peaceful stroll and lake views.

What is Trauffer and why is it famous?

Trauffer is a well-known brand for Swiss wooden toys, especially the iconic wooden cow. You can visit the Trauffer Erlebniswelt near Brienz to learn about Swiss wood carving, see artisans at work, and even make your own souvenir.

What’s the best time of the year to visit Brienz?

Brienz is beautiful year-round. In summer, enjoy water sports and hiking; in winter, try winter sports in the nearby Alps. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and colorful scenery. The weather in Brienz is generally mild, but always check the forecast before you travel.

How do I get from Interlaken to Brienz and around the lake?

There are regular trains and boats connecting Interlaken to Brienz. The boat cruise is especially scenic, passing villages on Lake Brienz and offering views of the Alps. Buses and trains also connect you to other parts of the Brienz area and the Berner Oberland.