11 Jul Giessbach Falls – a fantastic excursion
The Giessbach Falls with the Grand Hotel Giessbach, a beautiful destination from Grindelwald and easy to reach.
By car from Grindelwald in 25 minutes to Iseltwald and park there in the large parking lot in front of the village. Backpack packed with Öpfelschnitz, drinks and fine Zeltli (sweets), we go on foot directly to Lake Brienz. The signpost indicates an hour and a half walk to the Grandhotel Giessbach and the Giessbach Falls. Passing the last chalets in Iseltwald, it is best to take the beautiful lakeside path along Lake Brienz, which is easy to walk. The path is also easy for older walkers.
Halfway between Iseltwald and the Giessbach Falls, a nice barbecue area with three grills awaits you in a cozy clearing in the forest. Dry wood can be found in a small wooden chalet, so you can make a nice fire for a roasted cervelat.
The Giessbach Falls and a brilliant view of Lake Brienz.
After about 90 minutes of walking and a last short climb, you will reach the Giessbach Falls. Masses of water fall down into the valley and you can’t get out of your amazement. Not only because of the beautiful waterfalls, but also because of the fantastic view of Lake Brienz and the Bernese Oberland East.
Take a short break at the Grandhotel Giessbach; either on the fantastic terrace with an unobstructed view of Lake Brienz or stop at the kiosk and enjoy the view of the Giessbach Falls with a coffee and Kägi Fret.
The Grand Hotel Giessbach: a house full of history becomes the embodiment of the statement “without origin no future”. The atmosphere of the traditional Grand Hotel, the furniture from the end of the 19th century, the embedding in nature, which reinvents itself every year and breathes its own magic into the hotel with each season. Immerse yourself in this symphony of history and present and take home unforgettable moments.
After your stay at the Giessbach Falls, you will return to Iseltwald. From the hotel, walk down to the lake or use the hotel’s beautiful funicular to get down to the lake and shore path. Either another hour and a half walk along the lake back to Iseltwald or take the boat, which will take you directly from the Giessbach Falls stop to Iseltwald.
Another culinary tip: Make a culinary stop in Iseltwald at the Hotel du Lac and enjoy a fine fish menu. Freshly caught and straight onto your plate, simply delicious.
P.S. – We made this trip ourselves today and are always amazed at how beautiful the Bernese Oberland is. And yes, we also enjoyed a very tasty fish menu for lunch today. Photos are copyright Yannick Stoldt.
