The best walks and hikes around Schwanden bei Brienz
4.6
(3032)
20,509
hikers
412
hikes
Hiking around Schwanden bei Brienz offers diverse trails through alpine landscapes, characterized by the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and surrounding mountain peaks. The region features lush forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic natural formations like the Giessbach Falls. Hikers can explore a variety of terrains, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents, providing extensive outdoor opportunities.
Best hiking trails around Schwanden bei Brienz
- The most popular hiking route is View of the Giessbach Falls – Giessbach Falls loop from…
Last updated: May 31, 2026
4.5
(60)
470
hikers
6.83km
02:30
20m
1,030m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(8)
59
hikers
4.64km
01:37
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.1
(34)
241
hikers
11.0km
03:12
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(8)
49
hikers
11.1km
04:59
680m
680m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.2
(22)
190
hikers
18.8km
09:02
1,670m
1,670m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
super pretty ridge. Very airy up here
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super pretty ridge. Very airy up here
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Lake Brienz Lake Brienz is located in the Bernese Oberland between the communities of Interlaken in the west and Brienz in the east. The lake area is located in the communities of Ringgenberg, Niederried, Oberried and Brienz on the northern shore of the lake and Interlaken, Bönigen and Iseltwald on the southern shore. The large Bernese Oberland lake is fed by many mountain streams, mainly by the Aare in the east and the Lütschine in the west. At Interlaken, the Aare flows out of the turquoise-blue Lake Brienz and flows back into Lake Thun a little later in the Weissenau area. At normal water levels, the lake is at an altitude of 564 meters above sea level. With an area of almost 30 square kilometers, Lake Brienz is the eleventh largest lake in Switzerland and the third largest in the canton of Bern after Lake Thun and Lake Biel. It stretches 14km in an east-west direction and is almost three kilometers wide. There is only one island in Lake Brienz. The snail island - dialect: Schnäggeninseli - is located around 250m from the shore near Iseltwald. The circumference of Lake Brienz is almost 35km. The annual Lake Brienz Run circles the lake along the shore. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/brienzersee/
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Swimming in Lake Brienz The clear but often cold Lake Brienz offers only a few wild bathing spots due to the steep slopes, but is considered the cleanest lake in Switzerland. There are four lidos spread around the lake. These are the Niederried outdoor pool, the Bönigen lido, the Iseltwald lido and the Brienz lido. An overview of the four lidos can be found here: «Lake Brienz lidos». If you need warmer temperatures for your bathing fun, the nearby Burgseeli in Ringgenberg is recommended. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/brienzersee/
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pretty here, pretty here
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Fantastically beautiful place, the hotel offers very beautiful views of the lake and waterfalls
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Schwanden bei Brienz?
There are over 400 hiking trails around Schwanden bei Brienz, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 100 easy routes, nearly 200 moderate trails, and over 100 challenging mountain expeditions.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes in this region?
The region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. You'll encounter the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, lush alpine meadows, and dense forests. Highlights include the spectacular Giessbach Falls, which cascade down 14 steps, and panoramic views from peaks like the Brienzer Rothorn Summit.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options near Schwanden bei Brienz?
Yes, Schwanden bei Brienz offers several family-friendly trails. Many easy routes wind through serene forests and along the shores of Lake Brienz, providing gentle walks suitable for all ages. These paths often feature opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the picturesque scenery without strenuous climbs.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular View of the Giessbach Falls – Giessbach Falls loop from Brienz is a moderate 6.8-mile trail that takes you past the impressive waterfalls.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Schwanden bei Brienz?
The trails in Schwanden bei Brienz are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 3,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse alpine landscapes, the stunning views of Lake Brienz, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various difficulty levels.
Can I reach hiking trailheads using public transport?
Yes, the region is well-served by public transport, making many trailheads accessible. The historic Brienz Rothorn Railway, for instance, provides access to higher elevations like the Brienzer Rothorn, opening up numerous hiking possibilities without needing a car.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For experienced trekkers, there are over 100 difficult routes available. A notable challenging option is the View of Lake Brienz – View of Lake Brienz loop from Brienz, an 11.7-mile trail through varied mountain terrain with extensive lake views, often taking around 9 hours to complete.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks along the hiking trails?
Beyond the stunning Lake Brienz, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views from the Brienzer Rothorn Summit and the Faulhorn Summit. The dramatic Giessbach Falls are a major highlight, and the nearby Aare Gorge also offers a unique natural spectacle.
Are there any trails that offer views of Lake Brienz?
Many trails in the region offer spectacular views of Lake Brienz. The View of Lake Brienz – Berghaus Rothorn Sörenberg loop from Brienzer Rothorn is a moderate 6.0-mile path specifically known for its panoramic alpine and lake vistas from the Brienzer Rothorn area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Schwanden bei Brienz?
The best time for hiking in Schwanden bei Brienz is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild, and the alpine meadows are in full bloom. During these months, most trails are clear of snow, and the Brienz Rothorn Railway operates, providing access to higher-altitude routes.
Are there any trails that follow riverbanks or offer waterside experiences?
Yes, you can find trails that follow riverbanks, offering a different waterside experience. For instance, the Emme Riverbank Trail: Stage 1 is a moderate route that allows you to explore along the Emme River.
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