Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) lies in the Swiss canton of Bern, in the Bernese Oberland, just north of the main Alpine ridge. A long, narrow turquoise lake, it is one of the two lakes that frame Interlaken. Do not confuse it with the village of Brienz on its shore, or with Brienz in Graubünden.

How big is Lake Brienz?

The lake is about 14 km long and 2.8 km wide, covering roughly 29.8 km². Its surface sits at around 564 m above sea level. Maximum depth is about 260 m, with an average of 173 m according to Wikipedia and a water volume near 5.2 km³. The catchment area exceeds 1,100 km².

Where does the water come from?

The Aare enters at the eastern end and leaves at the western end, continuing through Interlaken towards Lake Thun. The Lütschine is the second major inflow, and the Giessbach stream drops into the lake from the slopes below the Faulhorn. The narrow Bödeli strip of land separates Brienzersee from Lake Thun.

What can you see around Brienzersee?

• Giessbach Falls – a cascade on the south shore near Iseltwald, visible from a boat or along walking paths.
• Brienz village – on the northern shore at the eastern end, beneath the Brienzer Rothorn.
• Iseltwald – a small south-shore village suited to a short lakeside stroll.
• Boat trips – regular passenger boats operate on the lake in summer.

When is the best time to visit?

Boat rides and swimming work best from late spring to early autumn. The water stays cold even in summer because alpine rivers feed the lake. During high-water periods (as in 2012) boat traffic can be restricted, so check the current timetable after heavy rain.

How do you get there?

The easiest base is Interlaken, between the two lakes. From there, trains and the road along the north shore lead to Brienz. To reach Giessbach and Iseltwald on the south shore, take a boat or drive.

Frequently asked questions

How deep is Lake Brienz? About 260 m at its deepest point.

How does Lake Brienz differ from Lake Thun? They are separate lakes on either side of Interlaken. Brienz is deeper and less built-up along its shores, while Thun lies on the western side of the Bödeli.

Can you swim in Lake Brienz? Yes, in summer, but the water is cold. Check local warnings first, especially after rainfall.

Where are the Giessbach Falls? On the lake's south shore near Iseltwald, where the Giessbach stream drops into the lake.