Iseltwald Switzerland. A truly beautiful town surrounded by the teal waters of Lake Brienz. While this Swiss town is described as a lakeside area, the term doesn’t showcase just how much the lake surrounds the outcropping of the houses, docks, and of course, the dominating presence of Schoss Seeburg.
Here are our recommendations on what to see and do in Iseltwald, a town so beautiful and historic it is listed as one of Switzerland’s heritage sites.
Must See in Iseltwald Switzerland: Schloss Seeburg
Schloss means castle, and what a castle this is. Iseltwald village stretches out on a peninsula into the lake, and the towering building sits right at the point of this outcrop, lording it over the surrounding blue and green of the lake and countryside.
Can you go inside Schloss Seeburg or Seeburg Castle at Iseltwald? Sadly not. The castle used to be a rehabilitation center, but while it’s no longer in use for this purpose, it’s still private property and not open to the public at this time. However, don’t let that stop you from taking photos of the castle from every angle possible! Top tip: Get out on the lake for the best views.
Must Do on Lake Brienz Switzerland: Take a Cruise
If you can, head out to Interlaken Ost (east) and catch a cruise around the lake. You get to see even more quaint lakeside villages, and some boat trips take you close to the cascading Giessbach Falls.
Must Try at Lake Brienz: Lake Swimming
The water in Lake Brienz can reach temperatures of 75 degrees in summer, particularly in the shallower waters. The rest of the year it’s pretty cold—remember, this is a glacier lake! Pack a swimsuit and have a paddle or dip in the refreshing, turquoise waters.
Other Ways to Get On Lake Brienz
Getting out on the water is a must if you visit Iseltwald village. Thankfully, there are tons of ways to enjoy this huge expanse of water.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding has soared in popularity lately, probably because it’s the ideal way to enjoy the water, get physical, and take in some dramatic scenery. If you can handle stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), it can be your key to unlocking all the secrets of Lake Brienz.
There are plenty of places to hire equipment and even gain instruction, so it’s a great place for beginners to try this exhilarating sport.
Hire a Boat
If you don’t want to be tied down to the schedule of a cruise operator, why not hire your boat? Boathouses are hiring out vehicles right on Iseltwald Bay. You can rent rowing boats, motor boats, or even a swan-shaped pedalo!
Walking Around Iseltwald and Lake Brienz
The gorgeous village of Iseltwald and its surrounding greenery are just begging for walkers to explore it. Talk to locals about the best walks and places to explore, or head out yourself with a map or a well-charged cell phone.
A popular hiking route is the Trail of the Three Waterfalls. You’ll explore over 11 miles of the Interlaken region and see three lively waterfalls crashing through the Swiss hills. It’s just over five hours for those of average fitness, but it’s also possible to split the walk into three sections and take your time.
Getting to Iseltwald, Lake Brienz, Switzerland
The closest airport is Zurich or Flughafen Zurich. If you’re driving from the airport, you need to set aside an hour and a half at least. Aim to arrive in Iseltwald early if you’re only staying for the day. It’s a popular destination which means that parking spots fill up fast.
Check your route with a trusted map or app before setting off, but you’ll most likely drive via the A51, the A14, and then the A2 until you reach the exit for Interlaken/Sarnen. From here you take Route 4 then the A8 until you see the Iseltwald exit.
Although the route is simple, there are toll points, so be prepared to stop and pay.
It’s also possible to take the train to Bern then onto Interlaken West, then to Iseltwald. Fares vary so check with the provider before you travel.
Accommodation in Iseltwald
Knowing where to stay in Iseltwald isn’t a huge mystery as there are only around 15 options for accommodation in this small town. Because of this, booking early is essential to avoid disappointment.
The Hotel Châlet Du Lac is one of the most famous and striking places to stay in town. It looks out over the lake, almost directly towards the striking castle. As the name suggests, this hotel has fully embraced the Swiss chalet style. You’ll sleep under wooden beams with ornate balconies but with all the conveniences of a modern hotel.
There are other hotels, plus bed and breakfasts and apartments, many offering free parking for guests.
Top Tips for Staying in Iseltwald
Here are a few more things to think about before you go!
Weather
Temperatures in summer range from 55 to 75, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket—it can and does rain!
Money
Unlike many other European countries, Switzerland does not use the Euro. The currency here is Swiss Francs, so make sure you take the right type of cash with you.
Language
While German is the primary language in Iseltwald, most people speak English—unsurprising considering tourism is one of the major drivers of the economy. You could take a German phrasebook with you, but in most places, you won’t need it.
Our final tip? Take your camera or keep your smartphone charged up! The word “breathtaking is overused, but when we’re talking about Iseltwald and Lake Brienz, we mean it. The surrounding mountains dominate the skyline and change with the seasons, from lush and green to snow-capped and majestic. The town is a snapshot of Swiss culture, and the lake is immense and endlessly blue.
Are you excited to travel to Iseltwald yet? You’ve got everything you need now for a fantastic Swiss village adventure by the water.
