Visit Lake Brienz in Switzerland
Stand beside water so vividly turquoise that it can look almost artificial, with steep Alpine slopes rising directly from the shoreline. Lake Brienz sits in the Bernese Oberland beside Interlaken and stretches east towards the village of Brienz, with boats, small settlements, waterfalls and mountain viewpoints scattered around its edges. You can experience it from the shore, cross it by boat, swim in designated areas or use it as a base for exploring the surrounding mountains. The colour comes from fine mineral particles carried into the lake by glacial meltwater, which scatter light and give the water its distinctive blue-green appearance. The lake is also known for places such as the Giessbach Falls, where a series of cascades drops towards the water, and for traditional woodcarving in Brienz itself. It is scenic rather than demanding, so the experience can be as relaxed or active as you want it to be. Give yourself at least half a day, though a full day works better if you want to combine a boat trip with Brienz, Giessbach or one of the nearby viewpoints. Summer offers the easiest conditions for boat travel, walking and swimming, while spring and autumn are often less busy. Add this to your list and see one of Switzerland’s most striking lakes from both shore and water.