Lakeside path idyll at Lake Brienz

Unfortunately, many formerly beautiful hiking paths have already fallen victim to road construction. That it can be done differently is demonstrated by the lakeside path on the southeast side of Lake Brienz. In the 1970s, the Interlaken-Brienz section of the A8 motorway was built there, and more or less as compensation for this intervention in nature and landscape, the canton of Bern established a hiking path that runs almost entirely directly along the lake. Because the motorway runs significantly higher up and also through tunnels over longer stretches, neither noise nor exhaust fumes disturb the hiking enjoyment. The starting point is the former fishing village of Iseltwald. At the beach, the lakeside promenade ends and the lakeside path laid out as a gravel path begins. The route follows the shoreline with slight ups and downs. At times the path leads directly to the water, then it overcomes some difficult shoreline sections with moderate inclines. Lake Brienz shimmers in a unique intense turquoise tone. Those who have swimwear with them will find several idyllic bathing spots along the route for a refreshing dip. However, it should be pointed out that Lake Brienz, which is predominantly fed by glacier water, counts among the coldest lakes in Switzerland and only reaches bathing temperatures considered acceptable by most on windless midsummer days. In the picnic area Glooten, a slightly larger ascent must be mastered. For that, a particularly beautiful descent through wild romantic forest awaits afterwards. From the hiking destination, the Giessbach/See landing stage, a 10-minute ascent or the ride with the oldest funicular railway in Europe leads up to the Hotel Giessbach, which is located in a unique scenic position opposite the Giessbach Falls.