Oltschibachfall

Oltschibachfall is a waterfall above the village of Unterbach in the Haslital, canton of Bern, halfway between Meiringen and Brienz. The Oltschibach stream drops down the mountainside above the Aare valley floor, and the cascade is easy to spot from the valley even though it sees far fewer visitors than the Reichenbach or Giessbach falls.

How tall is Oltschibachfall?

Published figures disagree. European Waterfalls gives a total drop of more than 200 m, including a single upper step of about 140 m. Bergwelten describes a plunge of roughly 140 m, while World of Waterfalls estimates about 260 m from the map contour lines. Several of these numbers are estimates, so treat them as an order of magnitude: this is one of the taller falls in the region.

Where can you see it from?

• The main valley road: you can spot the fall from a distance while driving, but there is nowhere to stop.
• The side road near Meiringen airfield: Unterbachstrasse gets you closer, though the runway of the air base runs right beside it.
• Unterbach village: there is a parking area, and an unpaved track leads to a nearer viewpoint. The Gasthof Rössli in Unterbach also has a good view of the fall.

Is there a hiking route?

Yes. Bergwelten lists a loop from Unterbach past the fall to Meiringen: 8.4 km, about 3 hours, with 428 m of ascent, 408 m of descent and a high point of 965 m. Most of the way follows cool, shaded forest paths, and the fall is reached after a short walk through the woods. No mountain equipment is needed, but sturdy shoes help.

When should you go?

May to September is the recommended hiking season. The fall looks best after snowmelt or heavy rain, when the stream carries the most water, and can thin out in dry spells. The forest shade keeps the route comfortable on hot days.

What else is nearby?

The multi-tier Wandelbachfall, reported at over 300 m in total, lies close by, as do the better-known Giessbach falls on Lake Brienz and the Reichenbach falls near Meiringen. All are a short drive or train ride away, so they combine well into a one-day waterfall tour.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The viewpoints and paths around Unterbach are freely accessible.

Can I stop by the main road to look at it?

No. From the main road the fall is visible only from afar. Park in Unterbach or use the side road near the airfield.

How much time should I plan?

The walk from Unterbach to the viewpoint is short. The full loop to Meiringen takes about three hours.

Is it the tallest waterfall in the area?

There is no clear answer: estimates of its height vary, and Wandelbachfall is reported as taller, so rankings are unreliable.