Giessbach Falls

The Giessbach plunges over 14 cascades into turquoise Lake Brienz. Follow the trail behind the waterfall and feel the refreshing spray on your skin. The historic Grandhotel Giessbach towers in the background.

The Giessbach originates in the high valleys of the Faulhorn area and plunges around 400 metres over 14 cascades. The 19th-century Grandhotel Giessbach is located by the waterfall. It can be reached by Europe’s oldest tourist funicular railway. The waterfalls are accessible year-round; boats operate from April to October.

Circular trail to the waterfalls (30–45 minutes)

From the Grandhotel Giessbach, a well-maintained trail leads along the Giessbach Falls. The highlight is a section of the path that takes you behind the waterfall. From there, you can look through the falling water onto the turquoise lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail climbs gently and requires sturdy footwear.

• Good to know: Some sections may be slippery.
• Tip: After dark, the Giessbach Falls are illuminated to spectacular effect.

Ride on the historic funicular railway and Grandhotel Giessbach

Since 1879, the Giessbach railway has connected the boat station on the lake with the Grandhotel Giessbach. The railway is considered Europe’s oldest funicular used for tourism and transports you back to the Belle Époque – as does the Grandhotel Giessbach, with its terrace directly above the falls.

• Good to know: The railway operates from April to October.
• Tip: Combine the ride with a boat trip from Interlaken or Brienz.

Hike from Iseltwald to Giessbach (2–2.5 hours)

Start in Iseltwald and hike along Lake Brienz to Giessbach. The trail passes through forests and repeatedly offers views of the turquoise water. At the destination, the waterfall awaits as your reward. The hike mainly follows well-marked paths with moderate inclines.

• Good to know: The trail is not suitable for pushchairs.
• Tip: Take the boat back to Interlaken or Brienz.