Burgseewli

Burgseewli (also spelled Burgseeli) is a small lake at Goldswil, in the municipality of Ringgenberg, canton of Bern. It sits in a hollow below a rocky ridge called the "Burg", a short way up from the northern shore of Lake Brienz. A natural bathing beach has operated here since 1932, and it is a favourite spot near Interlaken for a swim in warmer water than the big lake offers.

What is Burgseewli?

The lake covers about 5.25 hectares and reaches roughly 19 metres at its deepest. It lies between the villages of Ringgenberg and Goldswil. The name most likely comes from the nearby rock ridge rather than from a castle on the water. Over the decades the beach has been renovated and extended, always within the limits of nature protection.

Can you swim here?

Yes. Because the lake is small and shallow along the edges, it heats up faster than Lake Brienz, and on hot days it reaches about 26 °C. The site has a sunbathing area, a children's paddling pool, a barbecue spot and a restaurant. The season runs roughly from May to mid-September; in 2026 it is open from 10 May to 20 September. An adult ticket costs CHF 6.

What else is nearby?

• Goldswil church ruin, on the hill above the village, regarded as one of the region's earliest churches.
• Ringgenberg castle ruin, with a castle chapel from the 17th century. According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, the church was built in 1670-71 on the castle's remains, with its walls and keep reused as a bell tower.
• Schadenburg, a ruin on the way to Niederried with a grim local legend.
• The lakeside path linking Ringgenberg, Goldswil and Niederried.

How do you get there?

Take the train or a lake boat to Ringgenberg or Goldswil, then walk for a few minutes. Interlaken is only a few kilometres away, so cycling or driving works too. The beach lies between the two villages.

When should you go?

Late May to early September, when the beach is staffed and the water is at its warmest. A sunny weekday is quieter. Outside the season, the walk to the nearby ruins is a good alternative.

Frequently asked questions

Is Burgseewli open all year? No. The beach is seasonal, from about May to mid-September.

How much is entry? An adult ticket is CHF 6. Check the operator's site for child prices and passes before you go.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. There is a paddling pool, and the shallow shoreline suits families.

Is the water warmer than in Lake Brienz? Yes. Thanks to its small size the lake warms to around 26 °C.