The best walks and hikes around Brienzersee
4.6
(6790)
51,065
hikers
96
hikes
Hiking around Brienzersee offers diverse terrain characterized by the striking turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, surrounded by the Bernese Alps. The region features lush forests, dramatic mountain peaks, and charming Swiss villages. Hikers can explore well-maintained lakeside paths, routes through alpine meadows, and challenging ascents to panoramic viewpoints. This landscape provides a variety of natural features for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Brienzersee
- The most popular hiking route is View of the Giessbach Falls – Giessbach Falls loop from Brienz, a 6.8 miles (11.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 11 minutes to complete. This route offers close-up views of the cascading Giessbach Falls.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View of Lake Brienz – View of Lake Brienz loop from Brienz, a difficult 11.7 miles (18.8 km) path. This trail provides extensive panoramic views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding alpine landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Lake Brienz Lakeside Trail – Grandhotel Giessbach loop from Lake Brienz, a 10.0 miles (16.1 km) trail leading through lakeside forests and past picturesque villages, often completed in about 4 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Brienzersee is defined by turquoise lake views, alpine peaks, and cascading waterfalls, with options ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents. The network offers options for different ability levels, including family-friendly hikes and demanding day trips.
- The routes in Brienzersee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Brienzersee's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.1
(36)
240
hikers
11.0km
03:12
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.2
(22)
190
hikers
18.8km
09:02
1,670m
1,670m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(38)
226
hikers
16.1km
04:45
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(19)
115
hikers
15.0km
05:52
980m
980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(19)
63
hikers
11.8km
03:12
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
super pretty ridge. Very airy up here
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The hiking trail from Brienz to Mühlebach is closed due to the 2024 storm. It is also no longer accessible from Gäldried. The trail has completely collapsed, and all bridges are destroyed.
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Lake Brienz Lake Brienz is located in the Bernese Oberland between the communities of Interlaken in the west and Brienz in the east. The lake area is located in the communities of Ringgenberg, Niederried, Oberried and Brienz on the northern shore of the lake and Interlaken, Bönigen and Iseltwald on the southern shore. The large Bernese Oberland lake is fed by many mountain streams, mainly by the Aare in the east and the Lütschine in the west. At Interlaken, the Aare flows out of the turquoise-blue Lake Brienz and flows back into Lake Thun a little later in the Weissenau area. At normal water levels, the lake is at an altitude of 564 meters above sea level. With an area of almost 30 square kilometers, Lake Brienz is the eleventh largest lake in Switzerland and the third largest in the canton of Bern after Lake Thun and Lake Biel. It stretches 14km in an east-west direction and is almost three kilometers wide. There is only one island in Lake Brienz. The snail island - dialect: Schnäggeninseli - is located around 250m from the shore near Iseltwald. The circumference of Lake Brienz is almost 35km. The annual Lake Brienz Run circles the lake along the shore. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/brienzersee/
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Swimming in Lake Brienz The clear but often cold Lake Brienz offers only a few wild bathing spots due to the steep slopes, but is considered the cleanest lake in Switzerland. There are four lidos spread around the lake. These are the Niederried outdoor pool, the Bönigen lido, the Iseltwald lido and the Brienz lido. An overview of the four lidos can be found here: «Lake Brienz lidos». If you need warmer temperatures for your bathing fun, the nearby Burgseeli in Ringgenberg is recommended. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/brienzersee/
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A visit to Iseltwald is often combined with a boat trip on the turquoise-blue Lake Brienz, because especially in spring and summer there are hardly any nicer ways to be chauffeured from A to B. If you want to include a boat trip in your hiking program, it is worth taking a quick look at the BLS Schifffahrt AG timetable beforehand. This way you can plan your arrival in Iseltwald accordingly. https://www.bls-schiff.ch/de
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On this lakeside trail, you can admire breathtaking turquoise waters framed by dramatic Alpine peaks. The trail offers easy, well-maintained tracks that wind through lush forests and past picturesque Swiss villages, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. This route is particularly beautiful in the morning light or late afternoon, when you can catch a glimpse of the golden reflections of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Brienzersee, and what are their difficulty levels?
Brienzersee offers a wide variety of hiking trails, with over 90 routes available on komoot. These include 35 easy, 46 moderate, and 17 difficult trails, ensuring options for every skill level, from leisurely strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls in the Brienzersee region?
Yes, the region is famous for its stunning waterfalls. The most prominent are the Giessbach Falls, a series of 14 cascading waterfalls plunging into Lake Brienz. You can experience them up close on routes like the View of the Giessbach Falls – Giessbach Falls loop from Brienz, which allows you to walk behind one of the falls. The "Three Waterfalls Trail" also offers close-up views of Giessbach and Mülibach Falls.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Brienzersee?
The terrain around Brienzersee is incredibly diverse. You'll find well-maintained lakeside paths, routes winding through lush forests and alpine meadows, and challenging ascents to mountain peaks. The landscape is characterized by the striking turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, surrounded by the majestic Bernese Alps.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Brienzersee?
Absolutely. Brienzersee offers numerous family-friendly hikes, particularly along the well-maintained lakeside paths. These trails are generally easier and provide stunning views without significant elevation gain. The unique Woodcarving Trail (Schnitzlerweg) near Axalp, with its wooden sculptures, is also a great option for families.
Which hikes offer the best panoramic views of Lake Brienz and the Alps?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider trails that ascend to higher elevations. The View of Lake Brienz – View of Lake Brienz loop from Brienz is a challenging route that provides extensive vistas of the lake and surrounding alpine landscape. The Brienzer Rothorn also offers unparalleled views of the Bernese Alps and Lake Brienz, accessible via a steam cogwheel railway with numerous hiking trails extending from the summit.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available in the area?
Yes, many routes around Brienzersee are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the View of the Giessbach Falls – Giessbach Falls loop from Brienz and the Lake Brienz Lakeside Trail – Grandhotel Giessbach loop from Lake Brienz, which takes you through lakeside forests and past picturesque villages.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking around Brienzersee?
Beyond the stunning lake itself, hikers can discover several captivating landmarks. The dramatic Giessbach Falls are a must-see. You might also encounter charming lakeside villages like Iseltwald and Brienz, or explore the unique Aare Gorge. For historical interest, consider visiting the Burgkirche and Ringgenberg Castle Ruins. The Brunngasse in Brienz is also a picturesque historical site.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Brienzersee?
The trails in Brienzersee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers consistently praise the mesmerizing turquoise lake views, the dramatic alpine peaks, and the refreshing experience of cascading waterfalls. The diversity of trails, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect.
Can I access hiking trails around Brienzersee using public transport?
Yes, many hiking trails around Brienzersee are accessible via public transport. The charming lakeside villages such as Brienz and Iseltwald serve as convenient starting points and are well-connected. The historic steam cogwheel railway to the Brienzer Rothorn also provides unique access to high-alpine trails.
Are there any easy lakeside walks suitable for beginners or a relaxed day out?
Absolutely. Brienzersee offers numerous easy and well-maintained lakeside paths that are perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed stroll. These trails wind through forests and past picturesque villages along the shore, providing stunning lake and mountain views. The path from Iseltwald to Giessbach Falls is a particularly popular and scenic option.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Brienzersee?
The best time for hiking around Brienzersee is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is milder, trails are clear of snow, and the lush greenery and vibrant turquoise of the lake are at their most beautiful. Some higher alpine routes may still have snow into early summer.
Are there any challenging day hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Brienzersee offers demanding day hikes with significant elevation gain. The View of Lake Brienz – Planalp Mountain House loop from Brienz is a difficult route that ascends nearly 1000 meters. The demanding Hardergrat ridge also provides breathtaking views and a rigorous experience, with the possibility of spotting ibex.
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