The Brünig Passage is a scenic route that offers access to a variety of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and historical sites. From serene lakes to dramatic waterfalls, and charming towns to historic landmarks, here are 10 must-visit attractions near Brünig, complete with driving times, coordinates, and interesting facts to enhance your experience.
1. Lake Brienz
Driving Time: 20 minutes from Brünig (16 km)
Coordinates: 46.7100° N, 8.3375° E
Fun Fact: Lake Brienz is famous for its vivid turquoise waters, which are a result of «rock flour» from glaciers. The fine particles suspended in the water scatter light, creating the lake’s striking color.
Lake Brienz is a natural gem, perfect for scenic boat tours, hiking, or simply relaxing by the shore. The village of Brienz is known for its craftsmanship, particularly wood carving, and even houses the Swiss Woodcarving Museum.
Stay at MOS-Gasthaus: After exploring Lake Brienz, retreat to MOS-Gasthaus for a peaceful night in the mountains. Located just a short drive away, enjoy cozy accommodations with beautiful natural surroundings. Book your stay here.
2. Brienz Rothorn Railway
Driving Time: 25 minutes from Brünig (17 km)
Coordinates: 46.7481° N, 8.1964° E
Historical Fact: The Brienz Rothorn Railway, built in 1892, is one of the oldest cogwheel railways in Switzerland. It was originally designed to transport timber from the mountains down to the village.
Take the historic train ride up to Brienz Rothorn for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. The train climbs 1,350 meters in just under an hour, making it one of the most scenic and exhilarating railway journeys in the country.
3. Giessbach Waterfalls
Driving Time: 20 minutes from Brünig (14 km)
Coordinates: 46.6904° N, 8.4326° E
Fun Fact: The Giessbach Waterfalls have been a popular attraction since the 19th century, with visitors arriving by boat from Lake Brienz or hiking along the picturesque paths.
The waterfalls cascade over 500 meters into Lake Brienz. You can enjoy the view from several observation points, or stay at the historic Giessbach Hotel, which has been welcoming guests for over 150 years.
4. Susten Pass
Driving Time: 45 minutes from Brünig (38 km)
Coordinates: 46.7358° N, 8.4494° E
Historical Fact: The Susten Pass has been a critical route for centuries, used by traders and travelers to connect the valley of Uri with the Canton of Bern. The road was officially opened in 1945.
The Susten Pass offers stunning views of glaciers and high peaks. It’s a popular road trip for those looking to experience the Swiss Alps in their rawest form. The drive is especially beautiful in summer when alpine flowers bloom along the roadside.
Stay at MOS-Gasthaus: After your alpine adventure, unwind at MOS-Gasthaus, your perfect home base for exploring the mountains. With rustic charm and comfortable accommodations, it’s an ideal spot to relax after a day of outdoor exploration. Reserve your room now.
5. Meiringen and the Sherlock Holmes Museum
Driving Time: 20 minutes from Brünig (15 km)
Coordinates: 46.7260° N, 8.1864° E
Historical Fact: Meiringen is famously known as the place where Sherlock Holmes, in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s story «The Final Problem,» allegedly fell to his death at the Reichenbach Falls in 1891. The town celebrates its connection to the fictional detective with a dedicated museum.
Visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum to explore the life of the famous detective, his adventures, and the town’s connection to the character. Don’t miss the nearby Reichenbach Falls, where fans of the story can «recreate» the scene from the famous encounter.
6. Aareschlucht (Aare Gorge)
Driving Time: 20 minutes from Brünig (17 km)
Coordinates: 46.6986° N, 8.1740° E
Fun Fact: The Aareschlucht is one of the most spectacular gorges in Switzerland. The narrow passage carved by the Aare River is only 1.4 meters wide in some places, giving it an eerie, dramatic feel as you walk through.
This natural wonder offers a thrilling experience with walkways and tunnels that bring you face-to-face with the powerful flow of water. The vibrant turquoise river runs through the gorge, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs.
7. Trummelbach Falls
Driving Time: 40 minutes from Brünig (30 km)
Coordinates: 46.5916° N, 7.9236° E
Fun Fact: Trummelbach Falls is unique in that it is a series of waterfalls inside the mountain, and it is the only such system in Europe. The waterfalls are powered by the melting glaciers of the Jungfrau Massif.
The falls consist of ten cascades, accessible via tunnels and platforms inside the mountain. The sound of the water roaring through the narrow gorge is both deafening and awe-inspiring.
8. Kleine Scheidegg
Driving Time: 40 minutes from Brünig (35 km)
Coordinates: 46.5764° N, 7.9650° E
Historical Fact: Kleine Scheidegg has been a major hub for mountain transport since the opening of the Jungfrau Railway in 1912. It has also been a favored destination for skiers and mountaineers for decades.
At Kleine Scheidegg, you can take in panoramic views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. It’s also a key access point for trains heading to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, and a must-see for any visitor.
9. Lauterbrunnen Valley
Driving Time: 45 minutes from Brünig (45 km)
Coordinates: 46.5923° N, 7.9073° E
Fun Fact: Lauterbrunnen Valley is often referred to as the «Valley of Water» due to its 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls and the Trummelbach Falls, which can be seen cascading down its cliffs.
Lauterbrunnen Valley offers some of the most beautiful views in Switzerland, with dramatic cliffs and lush meadows. It is also a popular base for outdoor activities, including hiking, paragliding, and skiing.
10. Hohenzollern Castle
Driving Time: 50 minutes from Brünig (45 km)
Coordinates: 47.6763° N, 8.2432° E
Historical Fact: Hohenzollern Castle dates back to the 11th century and was the ancestral seat of the noble Hohenzollern family. The castle was rebuilt in the mid-19th century in a neo-Gothic style, and it remains one of the most impressive castles in Switzerland.
The castle sits on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore its historical rooms and collections, which include medieval armory, royal portraits, and period furniture.
Stay in Comfort at MOS-Gasthaus
After a day of exploring the stunning Brünig region, relax at MOS-Gasthaus, formerly known as Kunds- und NATURFREUNDEHAUS. Nestled in the tranquil mountains, it offers comfortable accommodations with a homely atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a short stay or a longer retreat, MOS-Gasthaus is the perfect base for your Swiss adventure.
Book your stay at MOS-Gasthaus now and enjoy a cozy, welcoming experience surrounded by nature.