Weg der Drei Wasserfälle: Bernese Oberland
Spring is unquestionably the best time of the year for waterfall hiking. And a trail with three waterfalls, all along the stunningly blue Lake Brienz? Sign me UP. This route goes from Bönigen via Iseltwald to Brienz, and can be split into two sections (Isetlwald serving as the midpoint) or one long day hike. There are a couple long ascents and descents, but nothing too challenging. Luckily, the three waterfalls are pretty evenly spaced out, so there is always something to look forward to (if the color of the lake and the Alp views aren’t enough!).
The first section leads to the light-flooded Eschwanden waterfall, and then follows a forest path to the fishing village of Iseltwald ( a nice place for a lunch break). It’s a bit confusing to get back on the Weg der Wasserfalle after Iseltwald, but best course is to follow the signs for Isch. Otherwise, you’ll end up on a lakeside path to Brienz, which is also lovely, but then you will miss the next two waterfalls, and that’s the reason you are here! Mülibach falls is next, right after the underpass from the motorway. The best is saved for last. Giessbach Falls is huge and thunderous, and for me, completely unexpected! The cascades tumble pass the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, which looks like a fairy-tale castle, and pour into Lake Brienz.
This entire trail is a lovely way to experience the Bernese Oberland region. The trail might be named for three waterfalls, but this whole area has waterfalls sprouting all over the place. It’s magical, and celebrates Swiss spring in all its glory.
Start: Bönigen See bus stop
End: Brienz Bahnhof
Basic Route: Bönigen - Eschwanden - Isetwald - Isch (follow signpost for Isch only until point 633, then cross the autostrasse) -Mülibachfall - Giessbach - Brienz
Length and Rating: Medium. 18 km, 5.5-6 hours
