Brienz

Brienz is a municipality and resort town in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It lies on the northern shore of Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland and is part of the administrative district of Interlaken-Oberhasli, a status adopted in 2010. The community is German-speaking and has a population in the low thousands.

Geography and layout: Brienz consists of a picturesque lakeside village backed by alpine scenery, with a town center of traditional wooden houses and a promenade along the lake. The surrounding area includes agricultural land and forested hills, making it a gateway for lake and mountain excursions.

Economy and culture: Tourism is a major component of Brienz’s economy, drawn by lake cruises, forested landscapes, and access to mountain routes. The town has a long-standing tradition of woodcarving, with several workshops and a small woodcarving museum that reflects this craft heritage. Visitors are attracted to the combination of crafts, scenery, and outdoor activities.

Transportation: Brienz is served by rail and boat services. The Brünig railway line connects Brienz station with Interlaken and Lucerne, providing access to broader Swiss rail networks. Regular boat services operate on Lake Brienz, linking Brienz with other lakeside communities. A historic mountain railway, the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn, runs from Brienz to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn, offering panoramic alpine views.

Notable features: The town center features traditional Swiss architecture, a scenic lakeside setting, and proximity to outdoor attractions. Brienz serves as a tranquil base for exploring the lake region and nearby mountains.