Lake Brienz and Giessbach Falls

Lake Brienz is the turquoise lake east of Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland, and Giessbach Falls is its best-known sight, on the northern shore near Brienz. The lake takes its colour from glacial silt carried by the Aare, and BLS paddle steamers and motor ships cross it from the landing beside Interlaken Ost station, a trip of about one hour each way. The boat stops at Giessbach, where a historic funicular opened in 1879 climbs from the landing to the Grandhotel Giessbach above. Giessbach Falls drops about 500 metres in 14 steps, and marked trails lead beside and behind several cascades, including a path passing behind one of the falls. The funicular return costs CHF 14, while the falls trails themselves are free. The hotel terrace, set in a park, looks over the lake and the falls and is a popular stop for lunch or coffee. A typical visit takes half a day: the boat ride, a walk through the trail system and a break at the hotel. Boats operate from 3 April to 6 December 2026, and the funicular and trails follow the same season. Water flow is strongest in spring and early summer, when snowmelt feeds the cascades, and the falls are floodlit in the evening at some times of the season. Mornings usually bring calmer water and better light on the lake, while midday in July and August is the busiest time on the boats and the funicular. Visitors can combine the outing with the town of Brienz, known for woodcarving, and the Ballenberg open-air museum nearby. Berner Oberland Pass and Swiss Travel Pass holders travel on the boats free. Sturdy shoes are advised, as the trails near the falls are steep and damp, and a light waterproof is useful because spray reaches the paths.