Is it safe to swim in Lake Brienz?

Unless the signs say otherwise, bathing is permitted at all locations on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Discover tranquil hidden bays, picturesque bathing spots and cosy coves right by the water. What could be better than relaxing by the lake or in an open-air pool, soaking up the sun on a hot summer's day?



Yes, it is perfectly safe to swim in Lake Brienz, provided you are prepared for its unique alpine characteristics. Known for its stunning, crystal-clear turquoise waters, the lake is a popular summer destination for locals and tourists alike. The water quality is exceptionally high, fed by pure glacial meltwater. However, even in the peak of summer (June to August), the water remains remarkably "refreshing"—with temperatures typically hovering between 18°C and 22°C (64°F to 72°F). For the safest experience, it is highly recommended to use designated swimming areas like the Brienz Lido, which offers supervised facilities, diving towers, and children’s paddling pools. Swimmers should be cautious of the lake's depth, as it drops off very quickly from the shore, and the cold temperature can cause a "cold shock" if you jump in too suddenly. In 2026, Lake Brienz continues to be a top choice for those seeking a scenic swim against a backdrop of the Bernese Oberland mountains, though wearing water shoes is advised due to the pebbly nature of the lakebed.

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The largest mountain lake in Switzerland has seen some ups and downs. Back in 1980, it was “over fertilised” – too high in phosphates. Then, in the space of a few years, it became so clean and free of nutrients that the fish died of hunger. Since then, the lake's ecosystem has stabilised, and the fish are doing better.

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The two lakes in the Bernese Oberland have each its own character. Lake Thun opens up to the northwest and has 3 castles on its shores. The other lake of Brienz with its emerald colour resembles a Norwegian fjord. It is located west of Interlaken and the larger one.

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Do you know why Lake Brienz is turquoise? It is because of tiny particles of sediment washed into the lake by glacial waters from the Lütschine and the Aare. As these extremely fine glacial particles sink very slowly, they produce an extraordinary visual effect that is only enhanced by the cleanliness of the lake.

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Lake Brienz is a lake just north of the Alps, in the canton of Bern in Switzerland. It has a length of about 14 kilometres, a width of 2.8 kilometres and a maximum depth of 260 metres. Its area is 29.8 square kilometres; the surface is 564 metres above the sea-level.

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Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid for boat cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz? Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is valid for boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

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If you walk to the docking area from the Brunngasse, you can do so by a beautiful promenade which gives you stunning views over Lake Brienz. Lake Brienz is bluer than Lake Thun and we were very impressed with the views and the flower decorations of the promenade.

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Stroll along the banks of lakes Brienz and Thun. In the Interlaken holiday region, nature lovers and keen walkers have every opportunity to explore the landscape at any time of year.

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Blue and turquoise lakes It's due to the tiny glacier particles, which sink only slowly to the bottom. The purity of the lake's waters allow these particles to come into their own. The colours are particularly beautiful in spring, when the glaciers begin to melt.

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You have read correctly: The water comes directly from Lake Brienz, is filtered and treated and comes as drinking water through the open bar system on the steamboat in specially designed glass bottles from the Swiss start-up FILL ME.

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Lakes that did not freeze over However, the low winter temperatures were not sufficient for Lakes Geneva, Neuenburg, Thun, Brienz, Lucerne and Walen to freeze over. There are few, if any, historical accounts of these lakes freezing over.

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The probably most romantic part of Brienz is the Brunngasse which, having once been awarded the title «most beautiful street in Europe», is well-known abroad. Most of the houses in the street date from the 18th century and are decorated with wood carvings.

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9 Best Lakes In Switzerland
  • Lake Geneva.
  • Lake Lucerne.
  • Lake Thun.
  • Lake Brienz.
  • Lake Maggiore, Brissago Islands.
  • Lake Lugano.
  • Lake Zurich.
  • Lake Constance.


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The deepest lake in the UK is Loch Morar, Scotland at 310m depth. This is 80m deeper than Loch Ness, the second deepest lake in the UK and deeper than the height of the Shard, the highest building in London. The largest lake by perimeter length in the UK is Loch Awe, Scotland at 41km.

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