✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Brienz.
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Brienz beckons adventurers with its breathtaking scenery and old-world charm.
From scaling mountain peaks that kiss the clouds to gliding through serenely shimmering lakes under the sun, this picturesque town offers an array of experiences that promise to invigorate your senses and leave you feeling alive.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Brienz:
1. Lake Brienz
Lake Brienz is a stunning glacial lake located in the Interlaken region of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour to enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside towns. Go swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relax on the beach.
Don’t miss: St. Beatus Caves, a network of underground limestone caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Take a hike on the scenic trails around the lake and visit the Giessbach Waterfalls that cascade down the mountain.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the late spring/early summer to see the blooming wildflowers along the shore. You can also explore the lake by renting a bike.
Don’t forget to taste the local cuisine, including fresh fish from the lake and traditional Swiss cheese dishes.
2. Giessbach Falls
Giessbach Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the town of Brienz, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of the falls as the water cascades down a 500-foot cliff. Additionally, there are several hiking trails around the area that offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: While at Giessbach Falls, make sure to catch one of the daily boat rides that travel around the dramatic Lake Brienz.
Insider travel tips: – For the best views of the falls, take a hike up the mountain to reach the upper observation deck.
3. Ballenberg Open-Air Museum
Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is an outdoor museum located in Brienz, Switzerland that showcases the country’s rural heritage.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore over 100 traditional Swiss buildings spread across the museum’s sprawling 66-acre grounds. These structures date back to different periods and regions of Switzerland.
The museum is divided into several regions, each with its own distinct architecture and customs.
Don’t miss: The Museum offers many demonstrations by tradespeople in traditional Swiss crafts, including woodworking, cheesemaking, and glassblowing. During the summers, there are also many special events such as concerts, theater performances, and folk festivals.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least half a day in Ballenberg as the museum is extensive, and there is a lot to explore.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.
It is also worth investing in a guidebook or audio guide to learn more about the history and architecture of the different buildings on display.
4. Brienz Rothorn Railway
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic train ride up the Brienz Rothorn mountain and take in breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Brienz along the way.
Don’t miss: The summit of the Brienz Rothorn mountain, where you can take in panoramic views of over 693 peaks in the Swiss Alps.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot on the train and bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly at the mountain summit.
Also, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass for discounted fares on the railway and other transportation throughout Switzerland.
5. Axalp
Axalp is a scenic mountain village located above Lake Brienz in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The main attraction in Axalp is hiking and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
In winter, Axalp becomes a popular ski destination.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Axalp is the Axalp-Ebenfluh shooting range, where the Swiss Armed Forces conduct live-fire exercises. Visitors can watch the military demonstrations from a designated viewing area during select times of the year.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring proper hiking gear and plenty of water. Also, check the weather forecast beforehand as the conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Parking spaces are limited, so it’s recommended to take the bus from Brienz or leave early to secure a spot.
6. Harder Kulm
Harder Kulm is a mountain peak located in Brienz, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The peak offers an amazing panoramic view of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains.
You can enjoy the scenic beauty through the funicular ride that runs from the center of Interlaken to the top of Harder Kulm.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the beautiful sunset from the top of Harder Kulm. It offers one of the most breathtaking views of the setting sun over the lake.
Insider travel tips: – The funicular ride takes about 10-15 minutes, so be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
7. Schweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum
The Schweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum in Brienz is a museum dedicated to the traditional Swiss art of woodcarving.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the history and evolution of woodcarving in Switzerland through an impressive collection of carvings, sculptures, and other wooden artifacts.
The museum also offers demonstrations of the woodcarving process and workshops for those looking to try their hand at the craft.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning collection of carved cuckoo clocks, a traditional Swiss timepiece that has become an iconic symbol of Swiss craftsmanship.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the charming village of Brienz, which is also home to picturesque Alpine scenery and a beautiful lake.
8. Schwarzhorn
Schwarzhorn is a mountain peak located in Brienz, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The most popular activity to do in Schwarzhorn is hiking. Visitors can take a hiking trail from Brienz all the way up to the summit.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic view from the summit. It offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque Lake Brienz.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit for a clear day to get the best views possible.
9. Brienz Church
A charming church located in the picturesque town of Brienz in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the church, with its intricate stone facade and beautiful stained glass windows. Attend a service or take a moment to reflect in the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The prominent bell tower that stands tall above the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to enjoy the town’s vibrant cultural festivals, or in the winter to experience the magic of the Christmas markets.
Make sure to check the church’s schedule beforehand if attending a service is your main goal.
10. Woodcarving School Brienz
The Woodcarving School Brienz is a renowned institution that teaches the traditional art of woodcarving to individuals passionate about woodworking.
What to see or do: You can witness firsthand the exceptional skill and precision of the students and instructors as they sculpt intricate designs and figures out of wood.
Visitors can enroll in workshops and classes to learn about different carving techniques and create their wooden masterpiece.
Don’t miss: The Woodcarving Museum located in the same building is an impressive display of art sculptures and carvings crafted by the students and alumni of the school.
The museum also showcases the evolution of the craft dating back to the 19th century.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re planning to take a class, make sure to check the school’s website beforehand to book your spot early.
11. Brienzergrat
Brienzergrat is a mountain ridge in the Swiss Alps located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
What to see or do: Hike to the summit of Brienzer Rothorn and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Take a ride on the Brienz Rothorn Railway, a historic steam-powered train that takes you to the summit.
Don’t miss: The Goat Parade, an annual tradition where local farmers bring their decorated goats to the summit of Brienzer Rothorn. The parade takes place in late summer/early fall.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be chilly at high altitudes even in the summer. If hiking, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
And don’t forget your camera, the views from the summit are breathtaking.
12. Brienz-Axalp Cable Car
The Brienz-Axalp Cable Car is a mountain cable car located in Brienz, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a scenic ride up to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views and hiking trails. During the winter months, it also provides access to a small ski resort.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic views from the top of the mountain. The view of the turquoise blue Brienz Lake and the surrounding mountains is truly spectacular.
Insider travel tips: Take the first cable car of the day for the best views and fewer crowds.
Also, remember to dress warmly as it can get chilly at the top of the mountain, even in the summer months.
13. Brienz Boat Trip
A scenic boat trip on the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, surrounded by the stunning Alpine mountains.
What to see or do: Admire the picturesque landscape, breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy the relaxing pace of this leisurely ride. You will have the opportunity to take in stunning views of the towering mountains, charming villages, and traditional farmhouses.
Don’t miss: Keep an eye out for the waterfalls cascading down the cliffs and the arresting turquoise colours of the lake. It’s a perfect opportunity to take stunning pictures and capture memories of this incredible journey.
Insider travel tips: Opt for a sunny day for the best views. You can also hire private boats for a more luxurious and personalized experience.
Bring a sweater or a light jacket, as the weather can get cooler on the lake, even during summer. Don’t forget to try local delicacies in Brienz before or after the boat ride.
14. Aare Gorge
Natural gorge formed by the Aare river in Brienz, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Walk along the narrow path carved into the rock, marvel at the turquoise waters of the river rushing through the gorge, and admire the towering cliffs on either side.
Don’t miss: The dramatic suspension bridge that spans the gorge, providing stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be rocky and uneven.
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and to see the sun shining directly into the gorge, illuminating the water in an especially beautiful way.
15. Oberhofen Castle
Oberhofen Castle is a breathtaking medieval castle located on the shores of Lake Brienz in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and admire its architecture, as well as take in the stunning views of the lake.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the gardens, which are exquisitely maintained and offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the day. Additionally, consider taking a boat ride on Lake Brienz for a unique perspective of the castle and its surroundings.