Top 20 Lakes around Brienz
Best lakes around Brienz are found in the Bernese Oberland, a region known for its diverse natural beauty and alpine landscapes. The area features prominent bodies of water like Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, alongside several smaller mountain lakes. These lakes offer a range of natural features, from turquoise glacial waters to emerald-green expanses, set against a mountainous backdrop. The region is also characterized by charming villages and a rich tradition of woodcarving.
Best lakes around Brienz
- The most popular lakes is Hinterburgseeli, a lake nestled below the steep cliffs of Oltschiburg. This picturesque mountain lake is accessible from Axalp via the Schnitzlerweg and offers an idyllic setting for a break.
- Another must-see spot is Bachalpsee, a very beautiful mountain lake that can be reached within an hour. Visitors can enjoy extensive meadows and benches, with the majestic Schreckhorn reflected in its waters during calm conditions.
- Visitors also love Augstmatthorn Summit, a summit offering views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains. This location is known for its ibex colony, which can often be observed in the morning and evening.
- Brienz is known for large, prominent lakes like Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, as well as smaller, higher-altitude mountain lakes. This variety provides options for different activities and scenic experiences.
- The lakes around Brienz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and over 900 photos shared across 17 highlights.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Bachalpsee
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Augstmatthorn Summit
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Hinterburgseeli
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Iseltwald Harbor
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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. bls-schiff.ch/de
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Eisee Lake
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Tips from the Community
A peaceful, atmospheric hike above Axalp – perfect for unwinding 🌿. The trail leads across alpine meadows 🌼 and through light forests 🌲, offering frequent views of the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz 💙. Upon reaching Hinterburgseeli, pure tranquility awaits: clear water, beautiful reflections, and an impressive mountain panorama 📸✨. In winter ❄️, the lake is particularly magical: often frozen over, framed by snow, and far removed from the hustle and bustle 🤍. Depending on snow conditions, it's easily accessible as a winter hike or with snowshoes 🥾❄️. ... 📌 Facts & Figures 🥾 Distance: approx. 5–8 km (depending on starting point) ⏱️ Duration: 2–3 hours ⛰️ Elevation gain: approx. 300–450 m ⚠️ Difficulty: T2 / in winter WT1–WT2
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Swimming is permitted, barbecues are allowed at official fire pits.
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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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Picturesque hike with countless wooden carvings along the way. Once you arrive at the Hinterburgseeli, take a break and relax. There are some places to sit by the lake.
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Beautiful mountain lake easily accessible from the Axalb.
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The Augstmatthorn is an impressive mountain in the Bernese Oberland, known for its breathtaking views and rich wildlife. At 2,137 meters high, the summit offers spectacular views of Lake Brienz, the surrounding Alps and, in clear weather, even as far as the Jura. The hike to the Augstmatthorn often starts in Habkern or Lombachalp and leads along well-marked paths through a varied landscape. The trail is challenging and requires surefootedness, especially on steep and rocky terrain. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with wide panoramic views and the opportunity to spot ibexes and other alpine animals.
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Mountain lake in winter mood (Snow protection trail from Axalp)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes in the Brienz region?
The primary large lakes in the region are Lake Brienz, known for its striking turquoise-blue waters, and Lake Thun, characterized by its emerald-green waters and historic castles. Additionally, there are several picturesque smaller mountain lakes like Hinterburgseeli, Bachalpsee, and Eisee Lake.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
You'll encounter stunning natural beauty, including the unique turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, glacial melt-fed streams, and dramatic mountainous backdrops. Notable features include the cascading Giessbach Falls plunging into Lake Brienz, and the impressive stalactites and stalagmites of the St. Beatus Caves near Lake Thun. Mountain lakes like Eisee Lake offer fascinating reflections of surrounding peaks.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Brienz?
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking trails for all levels, winding through forests, meadows, and past waterfalls. You can find routes leading to mountain lakes like Hinterburgseeli from Axalp via the Schnitzlerweg, or to Bachalpsee, which is reachable within an hour from a starting point. For more options, explore the Hiking around Brienz guide.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides hiking?
The lakes offer a wide range of activities. Lake Brienz's calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pedal boating. Lake Thun is popular for sailing and windsurfing. You can also find extensive cycling and mountain biking trails. For detailed routes, check out the Cycling around Brienz guide and the MTB Trails around Brienz guide.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities in the region?
Many areas are family-friendly. Hinterburgseeli is easily accessible from Axalp via the Schnitzlerweg and offers an idyllic setting for a break. Public beaches like Strandbad Bönigen and Strandbad Brienz on Lake Brienz are great for swimming. Boat cruises on both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun are also popular family activities.
What historical or cultural sites are located around the lakes?
Lake Thun is particularly rich in history, featuring magnificent lakeside castles such as Thun Castle, Oberhofen Castle, and Spiez Castle. The city of Thun itself boasts a medieval old town. On Lake Brienz, the charming village of Brienz is known for its preserved wooden chalets and woodcarving tradition, while the historic Grandhotel Giessbach overlooks the Giessbach Falls.
What are some notable viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider ascending to Augstmatthorn Summit, which offers vistas of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains. The Brienz Rothorn Railway provides an unforgettable ascent to the Brienzer Rothorn mountain, with phenomenal views of Lake Brienz and the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Harder Kulm, Interlaken's local mountain, also offers spectacular views of both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.
How can I access the lakes and trails using public transport?
The region is well-served by public transport. You can enjoy scenic boat cruises on both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, which connect various lakeside villages. The historic Brienz Rothorn Railway offers access to mountain views, and cable cars can take you to higher-altitude starting points for hikes, such as the one to Bachalpsee from Grindelwald First.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Brienz?
The warmer months, typically summer (June to August), are ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the refreshing lake temperatures (around 18-20°C). Hiking is also popular during this time. Autumn offers beautiful colors, especially around Hinterburgseeli, which appears in magical colors. Always be prepared for fresh winds at higher altitudes, even in summer.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes?
Yes, the clear and refreshing waters of Lake Brienz are excellent for swimming. Public beaches like Strandbad Bönigen and Strandbad Brienz provide designated areas. For a more secluded experience, you can even cool off in the waters of mountain lakes like Hinterburgseeli.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Brienz?
Visitors consistently praise the unparalleled turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, the dramatic alpine scenery, and the charming villages. The wide array of activities, from relaxing boat trips and refreshing swims to adventurous hikes and waterfall explorations, also contribute to a quintessential Swiss experience. The opportunity to spot wildlife, such as ibex near Augstmatthorn Summit, is also a highlight for many.
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