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Rothorn Bahn
This is the only steam-powered cogwheel train still operating in Switzerland, climbing up to Rothorn at 2350m, from where you can set out on hikes or…
Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
Brienz
If a child had to draw a picture of a fantasy Alpine village, Brienz would probably be it, with its collection of dark-timber chalets sprouting red geraniums, tooting steam train and views across the startlingly turquoise waters of its namesake lake to high mountains and thick forests beyond. The deeply traditional village has a stuck-in-time feel with woodcarving workshops and a lakefront promenade.
Explore Brienz
- RRothorn Bahn
This is the only steam-powered cogwheel train still operating in Switzerland, climbing up to Rothorn at 2350m, from where you can set out on hikes or…
- BBallenberg Open-Air Museum
For a fascinating insight into the rural Switzerland of yore, visit this open-air museum, set across 80 hectares east of Brienz. Authentically…
- GGiessbachfälle
Illuminating the fir forest like a spotlight in the dark, the misty Giessbachfälle plummet 500m over 14 rocky ridges. Europe’s oldest funicular, dating to…
- BBrunngasse
In town, mosey down postcard-perfect Brunngasse, a curving lane dotted with stout wooden chalets, each seemingly trying to outdo its neighbour with window…
- SSchweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum
Homing in on the tradition of woodcarving in Brienz, this museum contains the prized collection of the Jobin workshop, which has been in business since…
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Brienz.
See
Rothorn Bahn
This is the only steam-powered cogwheel train still operating in Switzerland, climbing up to Rothorn at 2350m, from where you can set out on hikes or…
See
Ballenberg Open-Air Museum
For a fascinating insight into the rural Switzerland of yore, visit this open-air museum, set across 80 hectares east of Brienz. Authentically…
See
Giessbachfälle
Illuminating the fir forest like a spotlight in the dark, the misty Giessbachfälle plummet 500m over 14 rocky ridges. Europe’s oldest funicular, dating to…
See
Brunngasse
In town, mosey down postcard-perfect Brunngasse, a curving lane dotted with stout wooden chalets, each seemingly trying to outdo its neighbour with window…
See
Schweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum
Homing in on the tradition of woodcarving in Brienz, this museum contains the prized collection of the Jobin workshop, which has been in business since…
Guidebooks
Learn more about Brienz
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