Grandhotel Giessbach

The setting is unforgettable, with views of the waterfall, lake, and nearby hiking trails. Complimentary boat and funicular access, along with the Brienz Rothorn train, makes it easy to explore nearby towns. The staff all seemed proud of their work: reception were warm and eager to help, and the restaurant servers and bartenders were consistently polite and professional. Our room was spacious and beautifully decorated, with a timeless, classic film kind of charm that felt unique, elegant, and comfortable. A special, classy experience we'd happily recommend.

We felt fully rested after a long day of travel. This is a remote, serene retreat from the modern rush, with one of the best lake views you'll find in Switzerland. The room view was spectacular, and every staff member was welcoming and attentive. The menu was small but well chosen, and the wines were exceptional. It's a beautiful hotel, the best we've ever stayed in, with a traditional, untouched kind of luxury. I'd recommend it first to anyone looking to recharge and get away from everyday life.

For a table outside, there are three restaurant spaces. Elisa needs a reservation, while the main terrace doesn't take reservations but is often full. I managed to get a seat upstairs on the terrace outside the bar. Grandhotel Giessbach stands above Lake Brienz beside Giessbach Falls. Built in 1875, it was among Switzerland's first grand mountain hotels and a landmark of early alpine tourism. Its Belle Époque design includes terraces overlooking the turquoise lake. Guests used to arrive by steamboat and take the Giessbachbahn up to the hotel. The funicular was built in 1879 and still runs with its original wooden cars.

The lake views are exceptional, and the waterfall right beside the hotel is a real feature. It's a traditional hotel with a long history, beautifully decorated and with some art on display. The place seemed a little imposing at first, but the fantastic reception staff soon made me feel at home. There are two restaurants, a little pricey but good. Since you're in a forest and nature reserve, bring suitable clothes because it can get wet. If you stay, make use of the Nostalgia Pass and free funicular. I'd recommend it.