Giessbach Falls | Giessbachfälle
Giessbach Falls: A Hidden Gem on Lake Brienz
In the heart of the Bernese Oberland, on the north-eastern shore of turquoise Lake Brienz, Giessbach Falls cascades over 14 rocky steps with a total drop of nearly 400 metres, descending from the high valleys around the Faulhorn. This is more than a waterfall: it brings together rushing water, a historic nineteenth-century hotel and Switzerland’s oldest operating funicular.
The Place and Its History
The Grandhotel Giessbach Grandhotel Giessbach overlooking the falls was built in 1873 and remains a fine example of the “Belle Époque” (Belle Époque) era, when Switzerland became a leading destination for Europe’s nineteenth-century aristocracy.
Meanwhile, the Giessbachbahn funicular began operating in 1879 and is considered Europe’s oldest tourist funicular. Its five-minute journey connects the lakeside boat landing directly with the hotel, feeling like a trip 150 years back in time.
How to Reach Giessbach Falls
1. By Boat (The Most Scenic Option)
This is the most memorable way to arrive. Regular boats cross Lake Brienz from:
Interlaken Ost: The journey takes about 1 hour 8 minutes and calls at places such as Bönigen, Ringgenberg and Iseltwald.
Brienz: The closest departure point, with a much shorter boat journey.
Boats operate seasonally from April to October, so check the current timetable before planning your visit.
2. By Car
Take motorway 8, leave at the Brienz exit and follow signs for “Giessbach” (without entering Brienz itself). Paid parking is available nearby, followed by a short walk to the hotel and lower falls.
3. On Foot (For Hikers)
A scenic lakeside trail runs from Iseltwald to Giessbach. It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and offers continuous views over the turquoise water.
4. Funicular from the Boat Landing to the Hotel
From the landing, either walk uphill for about 20 minutes or take the historic funicular directly to the hotel in five minutes.
Top Things to Do
Waterfall Trail (20–45 Minutes): A well-maintained path follows the falls, including a section that passes behind the curtain of water, with views of the turquoise lake and mountains through the cascade. Wear suitable footwear because parts of the trail can be slippery.
Hotel Terrace and Restaurant: An ideal place for coffee or lunch with direct views of the waterfall and lake, with relatively reasonable prices for such an elegant setting.
Hike Above the Falls: With more time and fitness, continue uphill to around 900–1,000 metres for a wider panoramic view.
Night Photography: The falls are illuminated after sunset, offering a completely different opportunity for night photography.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal season runs from late March to late Octoberwhen boats and the funicular operate. April and May are especially attractive because snowmelt strengthens the waterfall and the area is quieter than during the July and August peak.
Photography Tip from ilfotografoma
Arrive early before the first tourist boat for a quieter setting and soft light—ideal for long-exposure waterfall photography. The hotel terrace and the middle section of the uphill trail offer strong compositions combining the falls and lake.
Nearby Places Worth Visiting
Iseltwald: A small fishing village made famous by a Korean drama, reached from Giessbach by boat or a short hike.
Brienz: A traditional town with distinctive wooden buildings and a violin-making museum.
Lake Thun and Interlaken: A short distance away, ideal for completing a full day in the Bernese Oberland.
Ready to Experience Giessbach Falls with Us?
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