Highlights impressive and full of surprises, always worth a photo
Grab your camera and head out on a journey of discovery through Bönigen and Iseltwald. Let yourself be captivated by the sights and charm of these villages. We've put together a selection of must-sees for you here. Sharing your favourite photos on Instagram and beyond? Tag us! And sometimes, the best thing you can do is put your phone away and soak up the beauty in peace and quiet.
Things to see in Iseltwald
Majestically perched on the peninsula, Seeburg Castle is the landmark of Iseltwald par excellence. The house was built in 1907 and didn’t initially bring much luck, as the builder died during construction. His widow then only had the windows installed and left the building to bats and other animals for 20 years. Since 1927, Seeburg has been used in various ways – as a convalescent home, a domestic and trade school, and as a therapy center. Currently, Seeburg is privately owned and therefore cannot be visited – but of course, it can still be admired from the outside.
Discover the highlights of Iseltwald on the
Where does the small and only island in Lake Brienz get its name from? Is it because of its modest size, or is it more likely due to the monks from Interlaken Abbey allegedly breeding snails there in times gone by? Either way, it's undeniably charming. The island features a small chapel and is privately owned.
Discover the highlights of Iseltwald on the
Village tour
Does the Korean drama series 'Crash Landing On You' sound familiar? This hugely successful series helped make the footbridge famous worldwide, and it has probably become one of the most photographed spots in Iseltwald. In the series, the main actor, Hyun Bin, plays the piano on this very footbridge. Visit the spot yourself and capture an unforgettable photo. The view towards Bönigen and Niesen is truly breathtaking!
To help maintain the site and its surroundings, there is an entrance fee of CHF 5 to visit the footbridge. Thank you for your contribution towards the upkeep.
You can take wonderful photos of Iseltwald from this vantage point. You don’t need to be a professional photographer to capture great shots! The view is so breathtaking that it's almost impossible to take a bad photo. Even if you're not into photography, you can simply relax on the bench amidst the greenery and enjoy the panoramic view. Find out how to get to Fahrnihubel here:
Farnihubel trail
Enjoy the marvelous view of the Iseltwald bay, with its peninsula and the Schnäggeninseli island just off the coast. A barbecue area is available on site. Find out how to get there here:
Senggflue trail
A short walk from Iseltwald takes you to the mystical Mülibach Falls in the forest. The water cascades over a rocky edge, dropping several meters into the depths, where it collects in a basin before making its way into Lake Brienz. A bench behind the waterfall invites you to pause for a moment. Listen to the sound of the water and recharge your energy.
Discover this highlight of Iseltwald on one of the hiking trails around the village:
Bättenalp lies above Iseltwald, below the Faulhorn. This mountain landscape was awarded the Oberland Ost region's cultural landscape prize in 2007. This prize is presented annually to particularly valuable cultural landscapes, highlighting the high ecological and aesthetic value of these pastures. Access to Bättenalp by car is only possible with a permit; information about this can be obtained from the municipality of Iseltwald. Alternatively, you can reach it on foot via an impressive hike. In summer, guided alpine visits are also offered, where you can watch alpine cheese being made. A minibus will take you up to Bättenalp.
Unfortunately, the alpine road is currently closed indefinitely due to the risk of falling rocks. The situation is continually being assessed, and updates will be posted on the website of the municipality of Iseltwald.
Further information on upcoming events will be provided here in due course:
Stroll along the shores of the turquoise-colored Lake Brienz – it feels as though you've stepped into another world, where time seems to stand still. The lakeside path takes you from Iseltwald to Giessbach, where you can walk up to the majestic Giessbach Falls. If you follow the timetable, you can take the BLS scheduled boat back to Iseltwald.
Lakeside trail
You can find more hiking trails around Iseltwald here:
Things to see in Bönigen
Our insider tip: The waterfall, easily accessible on foot from Bönigen, is tucked away in the forest. Will this hidden gem inspire you with its mystical beauty? Find out how to get there here:
Erschwandenfall
In 1332, a battle took place here between the villagers of Oberhasli and the troops of the Baron of Weissenburg – a history that still echoes in the name today. However, apart from its historical significance, Haslerenegg has little to do with battles. On the contrary, it offers peace and tranquility. Watch as sunlight filters through the trees. After the steep ascent to 854 meters above sea level, you can sign the summit register. Find out how to get to Haslerenegg here:
Discover fascinating stories from Bönigen’s past at the village museum. The Alte Pinte, dating back to 1772, offers a glimpse into a typical Bernese Oberland chalet, complete with a rustic kitchen and furnished rooms showcasing everyday life from 1730 to 1920.
Further information about current exhibitions and opening times can be found here:
Bemerkenswertes aus der Vergangenheit der Böniger erfahren Sie im Dorfmuseum. Das Dorfmuseum «alte Pinte» aus dem Jahr 1772 bietet einen Einblick in ein typisches Berner Oberland Chalet mit seiner ländlichen Küche und Zimmern mit Einrichtungs- und Gebrauchsgegenständen aus der Zeit zwischen 1730 bis 1920. Weitere Informationen zu Ausstellungen und Öffnungszeiten finden Sie hier:
A defining feature of the original village centre is the collection of carved wooden houses dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. These houses are remarkably well preserved and richly decorated. Pick up a map of the circular route at the tourist office or here, and follow the signposts so you don't miss any of the must-see buildings!
With our Smar Trail you can also explore the Historic Houses Trail using your own smartphone. Simply scan the QR code or follow the link to be guided from post to post. The content will appear directly on your screen at each stop.
The Depotseeli (also known as Baggerseeli) is a small lake on the edge of the village of Bönigen. If you walk along the lakeside path from Bönigen to Interlaken, you'll pass by this little lake. Depotseeli was created during excavation work for the railway line. The leased lake is managed, and fishing is permitted along the banks with a valid licence. Weekly or annual licences can be purchased from our office; a SaNa licence is required for annual licences.
You can walk from Bönigen to Interlaken along the shores of Lake Brienz and the River Aare. Numerous benches along the way invite you to sit down and enjoy the peace and quiet. You'll also find several gravel beaches—perfect for a refreshing dip or for stacking stones and creating cairns. Just do whatever feels good for the soul. The gravel path is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
You can find more hiking trails around Bönigen here:
Many people are drawn to the Lütschinen delta on warm days. But caution is advised: entering the delta and its sandbanks is strictly prohibited! There is a real risk of the delta collapsing into the deep lakebed at any time. The Canton of Bern assumes no liability and has put up warning signs to alert visitors of the danger.
The outer sandbanks are especially unstable, and staying in these areas can be life-threatening.
The Lütschisand nature reserve is also a habitat for the rare yellow-bellied toad. In spring, these amphibians bring life to the many pools in the restored shoreline area.
