Lake Brienz & Lake Thun★★
The two lakes at the foot of Interlaken could not be more different — and both are worth a visit.
★★ Lake Brienz
The Lake Brienz is the wilder of the two: Turquoise glacier water (too cold for swimming!), steep shores, and little development. On the eastern shore lies the picturesque Brienz — famous for its woodcarving tradition. The Brienz Rothorn Railway (the only still operating steam cog railway in Switzerland, since 1892) rattles to the summit (2,350 m) — panorama over the lake and the Bernese Alps. 64 CHF return, with Swiss Travel Pass 50%.
★★ Giessbach Falls
The Giessbach Falls cascade over 500 meters in 14 cascades into Lake Brienz — most impressive when viewed from above. The historic Grandhotel Giessbach (1875) towers directly next to the falls — a cup of coffee on the terrace with the sound of the waterfall in your ears is unforgettable. Accessible by boat from Brienz + Europe's oldest funicular.
★★ Lake Thun
The Lake Thun is gentler and warmer: Up to 22 °C in summer, ideal for swimming. The town of Thun on the northern shore has a charming old town with Thun Castle (museum, 10 CHF, view of the lake and mountains). On the southern shore: the castles of Spiez and Oberhofen — postcard motifs with lake and Alpine backdrop. Boat trips on both lakes: Included in the Swiss Travel Pass!
💡 Tipp
The boat trip from Interlaken to Brienz (1:15 hours) is one of the most beautiful boat rides in Switzerland — turquoise water, steep mountains, absolute silence. In Brienz, visit the Jobin woodcarving workshop (free demonstration) and take the steam train to the Rothorn. A complete day program, almost free with the Swiss Travel Pass.
