Top 20 Waterfalls around Brienz
Best waterfalls around Brienz are found in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland, a region known for its diverse hydrological landscape. Lake Brienz and its surrounding valleys feature numerous cascades, from powerful plunges to serene glacial gorges. These natural spectacles are often integrated into hiking trails, offering various viewpoints and experiences. The area provides opportunities to explore significant natural monuments and historical sites.
Best waterfalls around Brienz
- The most popular waterfalls is Giessbach Falls, a waterfall that plunges approximately 400 meters over 14 tiers into Lake Brienz. A walkway allows visitors to go behind one of the waterfalls, providing an immersive experience.
- Another must-see spot is Reichenbach Falls, a waterfall known for its 300-meter high cascade of seven waterfalls. This site is also recognized as the fictional location of Sherlock Holmes' final struggle.
- Visitors also love Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, a gorge featuring thundering waterfalls and smooth rock walls carved by glacial meltwater. A well-maintained footpath winds through the canyon, offering intimate views of the powerful water.
- Brienz is known for dramatic plunges, historical waterfalls, and serene glacial gorges. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from iconic cascades to smaller, hidden gems.
- The waterfalls around Brienz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1700 upvotes and over 1500 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Giessbach Falls
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Grandhotel Giessbach
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Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge
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Reichenbach Falls
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A cable car takes you comfortably to the top (price for adults: 8 francs). Beautiful waterfall and great views of Meiringen and the surrounding area on the hiking trail. Definitely recommended!
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Chessiloch Suspension Bridge
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Tips from the Community
When you reach the waterfall on foot and then take the historic funicular down into the valley, you have experienced the most beautiful part of the attraction: first the impressive nature and then the nostalgic ride on one of Switzerland's oldest funiculars.
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The Reichenbach Falls are one of the most impressive natural monuments in the Bernese Oberland and are located near Meiringen. The water of the Reichenbach plunges down in several cascades for about 250 meters. However, the Reichenbach Falls became famous not only for its nature but also for literature. In the Sherlock Holmes story "The Final Problem," Arthur Conan Doyle had his detective Sherlock Holmes fight his arch-enemy Professor Moriarty at the edge of the waterfall on May 4, 1891. Moriarty plunges into the depths, while Holmes only fakes his death and returns later. This story made the waterfall world-famous. For hikers, the Reichenbach Falls are an ideal stopover on the route from Schwarzwaldalp or the Rosenlaui Gorge to Meiringen. From the viewpoints, you can feel the power of the water particularly intensely.
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The Chessimättli is the longest suspension bridge in the UNESCO Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve and hangs up to 45 meters above the Seebach stream. It is 65 meters long.
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The suspension bridge can be pretty wobbly. =)
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The suspension bridge is elevated above the gorge, offering a breathtaking view!
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Fantastically beautiful place, the hotel offers very beautiful views of the lake and waterfalls
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The suspension bridge in the Chessiloch is a fascinating attraction in the UNESCO Entlebuch Biosphere, near Flühli in Lucerne. The suspension bridge, built in 2019, is 65 meters long and hovers up to 45 meters above the Seebebach. From here you can enjoy an impressive "view down below".
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Today, instead of an E-MTB tour, I went on a nice mountain hike after a long time. We started at the public car park (free of charge). The whole tour is really beautiful and the view of the Alps is always beautiful. It is also great near the waterfalls. You also cross the Chessiloch suspension bridge and return to the starting point. There is a very nice barbecue area near the suspension bridge. The entire path is easy to walk, except when it is wet, then you have to be careful. You must be sure-footed and in good shape. Hiking poles are an advantage for those who do not feel safe. Highlights that I experienced: - Great view of the Alps - Chessiloch suspension bridge FYI: Here is the video https://www.relive.cc/view/vJOK5rm5Rwq Equipment: Normal hiking equipment FYI: Moderate mountain hike Difficulty level: T2 (mountain hiking)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique features of the waterfalls around Brienz?
The waterfalls in the Brienz region offer diverse experiences. For instance, Giessbach Falls allows you to walk behind one of its 14 tiers. At Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, you can explore a path blasted through rock, winding past thundering waterfalls and smooth rock walls carved by glacial meltwater. The Reichenbach Falls are famous for their literary connection to Sherlock Holmes.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls to visit near Brienz?
Yes, several waterfalls in the area are suitable for families. Giessbach Falls is considered a perfect spot for families, with various hiking paths and convenient access via boat and funicular. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge also offers a well-maintained footpath suitable for all ages, taking about 45 minutes to explore.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Brienz?
The volume of water in the falls is particularly impressive during spring snowmelt or after significant rainfall. While beautiful in all seasons, spring and early summer offer the most powerful cascades. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge is an ideal escape on hot summer days due to its refreshing atmosphere.
How can I reach the Giessbach Falls?
Access to Giessbach Falls is convenient and scenic. It's often recommended to take a boat cruise on Lake Brienz, which stops directly at the Giessbach See boat station. From there, a historic funicular transports visitors up to the falls and the Grandhotel Giessbach.
What historical significance do the Reichenbach Falls hold?
Reichenbach Falls are internationally famous as the fictional site where Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes and his arch-nemesis Professor Moriarty had their final struggle. A plaque marks the spot of this famous encounter, and a vintage funicular offers scenic rides to a viewing platform.
Are there hiking opportunities near the waterfalls?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. Various trails run alongside and up Giessbach Falls, providing different viewpoints. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge has a well-maintained footpath. For more extensive hiking, you can explore the Mountain Hikes around Brienz guide, which includes routes like the First Cliff Walk by Tissot – Bachalpsee loop.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the waterfalls?
Near Giessbach Falls, you'll find the historic Grandhotel Giessbach, which offers dining options and accommodations with wonderful views over Lake Brienz. The hotel terrace is known for delicious cakes and pleasant prices.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the Brienz waterfalls?
Beyond visiting the waterfalls, the Brienz region is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and mountain hikes. These guides offer routes of varying difficulties, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding the waterfalls.
Are there any lesser-known waterfalls worth exploring near Brienz?
While Giessbach Falls, Reichenbach Falls, and Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge are the most prominent, the region also features smaller waterfalls. For example, Mülibach Falls near Iseltwald is a tall, thin waterfall that allows visitors to walk behind it, often included in local hiking trails.
What makes the Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge a unique experience?
The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge offers a unique experience as it's carved by glacial meltwater, featuring thundering waterfalls, smooth rock walls, and unique rock sculptures. A well-maintained footpath, including tunnels and bridges, winds through the canyon, providing an intimate view of the powerful glacial water. It's part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Brienz?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, the refreshing spray of the cascades, and the immersive experiences like walking behind Giessbach Falls. The historical connection of Reichenbach Falls and the mystical atmosphere of Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge are also highly appreciated. The natural beauty and the opportunity for various outdoor activities are consistently highlighted.
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