Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is an alpine body of water in the Bernese Oberland surrounded by steep mountain walls that rise directly from the shore. The water appears turquoise due to fine glacial sediments carried by meltwater from the surrounding peaks.

Human settlements around the lake date back to prehistoric times, with evidence showing people lived here long before written history. Over the centuries, villages and communities grew along the shores, developing the area into an inhabited region.

The town of Brienz on the northern shore is known for its woodcarving craft, a tradition carried on by skilled artisans who work in their studios. You can watch these craftspeople create intricate pieces using methods passed down through generations.

Boat services run regularly along the lake, connecting villages from Brienz to Interlaken. Walking paths follow the shoreline and allow visitors to explore between the waterfront communities at their own pace.

The lake contains nutrient-poor water, which limits fish populations compared to other mountain lakes in the region. This characteristic makes the ecosystem notably different and is something most visitors don't realize when they first arrive.