The Giessbach Falls cascade down a forested slope on the south shore of Lake Brienz in fourteen stages over around four hundred metres, framed by the turreted Grandhotel Giessbach, a Belle Epoque landmark of the nineteenth century. The classic way to arrive is by lake boat to the Giessbach landing stage, then up the short historic funicular, often described as the oldest in Europe, which runs from spring to autumn. From the hotel terrace and the footpaths around it, you can walk right behind one of the falls and look down on the turquoise lake. The falls themselves are free to view, and the hotel's terrace restaurant makes a grand spot for coffee or lunch. Walkers can also reach Giessbach on the lakeside path from Iseltwald.
Getting there
In the warmer months, Lake Brienz boats from Interlaken Ost call at Giessbach, a scenic cruise of around an hour, and the funicular connects the landing stage with the hotel in a few minutes. Alternatively, walk the lakeside path from Iseltwald in around an hour and a half to two hours, or drive and park near the hotel. In winter the boats and funicular do not run and the hotel is closed, but the falls can still be reached on foot in dry conditions.
What to do
Follow the footpaths that wind up beside the falls, crossing bridges and passing behind the water at one point, with railings for safety. The full walk to the top of the falls takes around an hour there and back from the hotel. Afterwards, relax on the hotel terrace, which has one of the finest views on the lake. On some summer evenings the falls have been illuminated, a tradition dating back to the nineteenth century.
Making a day of it
Combine Giessbach with the walk from Iseltwald and a boat back to Interlaken, or continue by boat to Brienz for the Ballenberg open-air museum. Paths can be wet and slippery near the water, so wear good shoes. The falls are at their fullest in late spring and early summer with snowmelt, but are lovely in any season when the boats are running.
What to expect
The experience
A boat and historic funicular trip, or a lakeside walk, to a stepped waterfall beside a grand hotel, with footpaths behind the falls.
Best time
A sunny day between spring and autumn, when the boats and funicular run.
How long
Two to four hours including the boat from Interlaken.
Tips
Check boat and funicular timetables, wear shoes with grip, and combine with the Iseltwald lakeside walk.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A classic Lake Brienz excursion combining a cruise, a waterfall and a grand hotel terrace.
- Families
- Good, with a short funicular ride and paths behind the falls; hold hands near the water.
- Couples
- Coffee on the grand hotel terrace after a walk behind the falls.
- Pair with
- Iseltwald, a Lake Brienz cruise and Ballenberg.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Are the Giessbach Falls free?+
Yes, the falls are free to view; the boat and funicular are paid.
How do I get there from Interlaken?+
By Lake Brienz boat and the historic funicular in season, or on foot from Iseltwald.
When does the funicular run?+
From spring to autumn, along with the main boat season.
Can you walk behind the falls?+
Yes, a footpath passes behind one of the cascades.
Is the hotel open in winter?+
No, the Grandhotel Giessbach closes in winter, along with the boats and funicular.
