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The Ultimate Lake Brienz Boat Trip Guide 2024!

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There are two big lakes in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. Whichever you choose to visit, you will certainly not be disappointed by the spectacular views.

With high mountains all around you, crystal turquoise waters, and little villages dotted with traditional swiss houses around the lakeside – it will take your breath away with its beauty.

If you do decide to visit one of the lakes, each one provides an option of a boat ride and here, you can get some incredible views as you head into the valley.

I decided to visit Lake Brienz and caught the boat from the Brienz dock.

I bought a return ticket to Interlaken, which is the main town at the opposite end of the lake, and our boat headed off into the blue.

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The Brienz Boat

There are plenty of boats which run around the lake as it is such a big area to sail!

All have their own names and unique character.

If you do decide to go on a sunny day, there are plenty of open seats to bask in the rays and catch the wind in your hair.

There are drinks served onboard but food options are limited, so it may be worth bringing a picnic or snacks with you!

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Where do you stop on a Lake Brienz Boat Trip?

Lake Brienz is massive and there are plenty of places to stop off on your voyage until you reach your final destination.

One of my favourite places to stop off is the Grand Hotel Giessbach. When you first arrive at its dock, you will be greeted by waterfalls pouring into the lagoon.

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The Hotel is situated on top of a hill and so you have two options in getting there;

1) Walk up the hill by the waterfall until you reach the top

2) Catch the Funicular!

It is a little pricey at 10 Swiss Francs return, but it’s Europe’s oldest mountain cable railway so you have to try it. It’s super cute!

At the hotel, you can enjoy a drink or meal in their ‘La Terrasse’.

You will have incredible views of the lake as you dine under their chic umbrellas and see the boats coming in.

As an alternative view on the other side of the outdoor seating, the hotel is situated next to a picturesque waterfall in the mountain.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb up the falls and see a panoramic view of Brienzersee!  

Click here to read my complete Grandhotel Geissbach guide

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Lake Brienz Boat Ticket Prices & Times

Prices for an adult return boat ticket is around 26 Swiss Francs (£20). It may seem like a lot but the scenery is priceless and you won’t regret spending a single swiss cent!

As for times, these vary by season but boats run nearly every hour in the summer and two hours in winter and so it gives you plenty of time to explore a little port/town and climb back on board!

The Views

These are the main attraction for jumping aboard and they do not disappoint.

The water is so blue, even when there’s no sun in the sky. Mountains surround you on either side and the lake seems to go on for miles.

Hundreds of traditional Swiss houses are clustered all around and make for a postcard picture.

If you find yourself in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, make sure you grab yourself a ticket to explore Lake Brienz by boat!

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nikki

Wednesday 13th of March 2024

what time of the year did you go? the routes on lake brienz don't seem to be available now.

Sophie Pearce

Wednesday 13th of March 2024

Hi Nikki, it could be that these run seasonally. So, I'd expect it to begin again around April time. Thanks, Sophie x

Lanie K

Saturday 22nd of April 2023

This was so helpful, thank you! Did you buy your boat ticket at the docks there? Also, did you have a Swiss Rail Pass that gave you a discount or a free ride?

Sophie Pearce

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Hi Lanie, we bought our tickets on the day at the dock. We had Swiss Half Fare cards as we were driving and got just a few trains to the mountain areas :) Hope this helps and have a great time! Sophie x