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Lake Brienz in the Interlaken region is considered one of Switzerland’s and Europe’s most beautiful lakes.
Its unique turquoise colour is absolutely gorgeous and very distinct from what we are used to seeing in lakes.
The lake is located amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland region. It is one of two lakes adjoining Interlaken, the other being the beautiful Lake Thun, which I’ve also written about in my guide about Lake Thun.
According to the official website of Interlaken, the colour intensity of Brienz is especially attractive in spring and autumn. The more sunlight falling on the lake, the more penetrating the turquoise tone is.
This colour, which is not common in a lake, is due to tiny sediment particles from the glacial waters carried into the lake from Lütschine and Aare Rivers. These extremely fine glacial particles sink very slowly, producing an extraordinary visual effect only achieved because the lake is clean and translucent.
First of all, I’d better explain that Interlaken is a region and has a city of the same name. Lake Brienz also has a town called Brienz.
Unfortunately, when I went to the region, it was raining, and we had to adapt our plans, but despite that, we managed to walk around Brienz and Iseltwald, drive around both lakes and enjoy this beautiful part of Switzerland.
If the weather isn’t on your side, I’ve also written a guide about what to do on rainy days in Interlaken.
But anyway, the day I was leaving Interlaken, the sun finally came out, and I could see that wonderful colour that left me “jaw-dropping”.
There is no way to describe the landscape, with the mountains surrounding that turquoise lake. It’s perfection! It was one of the most beautiful lakes I’ve visited, alongside Oeschinensee.
What to see in Lake Brienz?
One of the best things to do is the boat cruise. Most people say the landscape is impressive, and you will pass by some unique places like the Giessbach, Iseltwald, Bönigen, etc.
I didn’t take this tour because of the bad weather. I thought it was a waste of money to take a boat trip without properly seeing the landscape and the lake’s colour.
A day pass for Lakes Brienz and Thun lets you explore by boat at your own pace. Services on Lake Brienz are seasonal, so check the official Lake Brienz timetable before booking.
Also, another must-see place is undoubtedly the town of Iseltwald.
Iseltwald is the only village on the left bank of Lake Brienz. Situated in a small bay, the fishing village begs you to stay and enjoy the lake’s view, the mountains and the Seeburg castle.
To see the Giessbach waterfalls, you have two options. The boat trip is the best choice if you want to see it as a whole. Or you can walk to the waterfall where at some point you can even go behind it. This hike starts in Iseltwald and is one of Bernese Oberland and all Switzerland’s most beautiful trails.
The Grand Hotel Giessbach is located at the foot of this spectacle of nature. The hotel is accessible via the oldest funicular in Europe, built in 1879.
Another great thing to do is to take the train from Interlaken to Brienz. People say the landscape is beautiful. We didn’t do it because we made a similar way by car.
And if you like hiking, there are several trails to do around the lake, like the one I mentioned above.
Also be sure to visit Brienz Town, which has beautiful architecture, with those wooden houses so typical of Switzerland.
The town is very famous for its wooden carvers. You will be able to see several wood sculptures along the lake promenade and around the city, as well as numerous art galleries and souvenir shops.
A tip I give you is to walk on the lakeshore near the city of Brienz. An extensive, pebbled path runs between the lake and charming houses on its shores.
It is lovely to walk there, as you pass small parks, wooden sculptures and many benches to sit and enjoy the incredible scenery.
Put the name “Brienzer Uferweg” on Google Maps, and it will show you exactly where this path is.
You can take the Brienz Rothorn Railway up the mountain for views over Lake Brienz. If you’d like to see the sunrise from the summit, check the special sunrise trips from Sörenberg, which use the cable car and require advance booking.
Harder Kulm is reached by funicular and has views over Lakes Brienz and Thun. Check official Harder Kulm operating information before visiting.
Ballenberg Open Air Museum displays more than 100 original buildings that have been transported from their original locations. It is a Swiss heritage of national importance. For the open-air museum, check Ballenberg visitor information for current opening dates, tickets and activities.
If you want to rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up to enjoy the lake up close, there are several rental locations along the lakeshore in Brienz.
How to get there?
By train
Brienz train station connects the lake to the Swiss rail network. It takes a little over 2 hours to reach Brienz from Zurich. From Interlaken, the train journey takes about 20 minutes.
By car
If you are driving, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach Brienz from Zurich. There are many parking options available in the small town.
TIP
The GoldenPass route is a scenic rail journey rather than a single travel pass. Check GoldenPass Express routes and booking information and use the SBB journey planner for your full itinerary, connections and travel time.
It is a shame we didn’t have time to visit all these wonderful attractions, but then again, it’s one more excuse to go back to my favourite country in the world.
I hope you enjoy your trip and if you have more tips about what to see in Lake Brienz, please share with us in the below comment box.
An excellent day to everyone!
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