Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is a narrow glacial freshwater lake situated in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, just north of the Alps. It is located near the resort town of Interlaken, which separates it from its neighboring lake, Lake Thun. The lake is fed by cold meltwater streams, including the Lütschine and the Aare rivers.

The distinct, brilliant turquoise color of Lake Brienz comes from fine glacial rock particles suspended in the water. These mineral particles are carried down by glacial runoff from surrounding mountains like the Faulhorn and Schynige Platte. The "glacial flour" refracts sunlight, giving the water its striking appearance.

Lake Brienz reaches a maximum depth of approximately 261 meters. The lake's basin was carved out by a massive ancient glacier during the Ice Age. This great depth keeps the water exceptionally cold, even during the height of the Swiss summer.

One of the best ways to explore Lake Brienz is by taking a ride on the historic paddle steamer, the MS Lötschberg, which offers scenic cruises across the turquoise waters. Visitors also enjoy taking the Brienzer Rothorn Railway, a steam-powered cogwheel train that climbs from the lakeshore up to a 2,350-meter summit. Additionally, the Giessbach Falls cascade directly into the lake, accessible via a funicular.