INTERLAKEN SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Lake-bright chalets, curtain waterfalls and a valley that inspired Tolkien — a day across Brienz, Giessbach, Lauterbrunnen
A guided day tour from Interlaken that visits Iseltwald on Lake Brienz, the Giessbach falls and Brienz village before exploring the cliff-ringed Lauterbrunnen valley.
Lake-bright chalets, curtain waterfalls and a valley that inspired Tolkien — a day across Brienz, Giessbach, Lauterbrunnen.
Adventure brief
Lake-bright chalets, curtain waterfalls and a valley that inspired Tolkien — a day across Brienz, Giessbach, Lauterbrunnen
We leave Interlaken in the morning and thread east into the Brienz basin: a sequence of lakeside villages, historic waterfalls and a valley of sheer cliffs. The route moves from the stillness of Iseltwald on Lake Brienz to the stacked cascades at Giessbach, the woodcarver-lined streets of Brienz, and finally into Lauterbrunnen — the valley of 72 waterfalls — before a return through Interlaken’s old town; the day is guided by a local Swiss guide who can tailor the stops to your interests.
Interlaken, nestled in the heart of Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, stands as a premier winter sports destination, drawing adventurers to its snowy peaks and alpine wonder. This Swiss paradise offers more than just scenic views; it’s a hub for exhilarating winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing. Starting in the tranquil village of Iseltwald by Lake Brienz, visitors can feel the crisp mountain air and hear the crunch of fresh snow beneath their boots. As you ascend to the surrounding mountains, the landscape unfolds into a winter playground with towering peaks and pristine slopes suitable for all skill levels.
Venture further into the Lauterbrunnen valley, famous for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls frozen in time. Here, the landscape beckons thrill-seekers to conquer challenging runs or cruise gentle pistes. The Giessbach waterfalls, a striking natural feature, freeze into crystalline displays in winter, offering a unique photo opportunity. The area’s rich history as a ski hub dates back decades, and today, it continues to attract mountain sports enthusiasts worldwide.
What makes this region stand out is its perfect blend of accessibility and authentic Swiss culture. Local operators provide guided lessons, safety equipment, and expert advice, ensuring all visitors can experience the thrill of winter sports confidently. Whether you’re carving fresh powder, taking in panoramic mountain views, or learning new skills, Pure Switzerland’s winter trips deliver unforgettable alpine adventures. With its stunning natural monuments, charming villages, and expert-led tours, Interlaken remains a top-tier destination for winter sports lovers seeking both challenge and scenic beauty.
Route Schematic
Route schematic — stop by stop
Stops include lakeside Iseltwald, the Giessbach waterfalls, village Brienz, Lauterbrunnen valley and highlights of Interlaken on the return.
Iseltwald (Lake Brienz)
A traditional small village on the shores of Lake Brienz; a short stroll and photo opportunities of the tranquil lakeside.
Giessbach Waterfalls
Visit the 14 waterfalls above Lake Brienz — walk in the park, go ‘under the waterfall’ (note reduced flow in winter) and view the Grandhotel terrace overlooking the falls and lake.
Brienz village
Stroll Brienz’s small streets and lake promenade, admire traditional chalets and browse local woodcarvings (note the local wood manufacturer is closed in winter on Sundays).
Lauterbrunnen valley
Explore the valley of towering cliffs and 72 waterfalls, stroll the village, see Staubbach waterfall (frozen in winter) and—season permitting—visit the Trümmelbachfalls (accessible April–October).
Interlaken highlights and old town
On the way back, the tour visits off-the-beaten-path highlights of Interlaken and the old town before concluding in the busy tourist center.
The tour is guided by a local Swiss guide who can tailor the itinerary to include guest wishes; seasonal conditions affect waterfall flows and access (for example, Trümmelbachfalls are open April–October and some falls have reduced flow or freeze in winter).
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Iseltwald and the Lake Brienz panorama
Begin in Iseltwald, a traditional village where the world slows on the shores of Lake Brienz. Stroll the lakeside, make pictures of the great view and absorb the quieter side of the region.
Giessbach — a stair of 14 waterfalls and a historic grandhotel
Above Lake Brienz, Giessbach’s set of 14 waterfalls offers park walks, a chance to walk ‘under the waterfall’ (with reduced flow in winter) and views from the Grandhotel terrace over the falls and lake.
Lauterbrunnen — cliffs, frozen falls and Tolkien atmospherics
In the afternoon the tour reaches Lauterbrunnen, a valley lined with towering cliffs and some 72 waterfalls; stroll the village, feel the valley’s magical ambiance, glimpse the Staubbach waterfall (frozen in winter), and, season permitting, explore the Trümmelbachfalls from April to October.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The tour unfolds as a series of short drives punctuated by strolls: a peaceful lakeside walk in Iseltwald, a park and waterfall promenade at Giessbach, a wandering of Brienz’s streets and lakeside promenade with woodcarving shops, and an afternoon in the cliff-ringed Lauterbrunnen valley before returning to Interlaken and a look through the old town. Your local guide shapes the pace and can accommodate specific interests.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour departs Interlaken in the morning and includes seasonal notes: Trümmelbachfalls can be explored from April to October, Giessbach’s ‘under the waterfall’ experience has little water in winter, and some features such as local wood manufacturers close in winter on Sundays.
The standard departure is from Interlaken; pickup for this tour can also be arranged from Bern, Lucerne or Zürich for a different rate.
The tour is guided by a local personal Swiss guide who is happy to include your wishes in the itinerary to create a unique experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can we see the Trümmelbachfalls on this tour?
Trümmelbachfalls can be explored on this tour from April to October; outside that period they are not accessible as part of the itinerary.
How many waterfalls are at Giessbach and Lauterbrunnen?
Giessbach features a series of 14 waterfalls above Lake Brienz; Lauterbrunnen valley is noted for some 72 waterfalls.
Is the Staubbach waterfall visible year-round?
Staubbach waterfall is part of the Lauterbrunnen visit; it can freeze in winter, changing its appearance compared with warmer months.
Can the guide customize the itinerary?
Yes — the tour is guided by a local personal Swiss guide who is happy to include your wishes in the itinerary to create a unique experience.
Are the Brienz woodcarving shops always open?
Local wood manufacturers in Brienz are part of the visit; note that some are closed in winter on Sundays.
Where does the tour start and are other pickup locations possible?
The tour leaves from Interlaken in the morning; pickup can also be arranged from Bern, Lucerne or Zürich for a different rate.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:41.347Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.