Niederried near Interlaken – Lake Brienz and hiking trails

Niederried near Interlaken is a municipality in the canton of Bern in Switzerland and is more than 700 years old. The village is considered a small holiday resort on Lake Brienz in the heart of the Jungfrau Region. The surrounding area is also considered idyllic and offers views of the lake.

Landscape and local history

Niederried lies at the foot of the Augstmatthorn. The lakeshore and mountain landscape define the village’s geographical setting. Those interested in local cultural heritage can find a 19th-century bakehouse at the Ofehüsi. The idea of renovating the building arose during preparations for the 700th-anniversary celebration in May 2003.

The long-standing Ofehüsi team ceased operations in April 2023 after 20 years. Check its current operating status before visiting. This keeps the bakehouse’s historical significance separate from the question of whether it is currently in operation.

Hiking trails and tours

Well-maintained, signposted hiking trails lead west from Niederried via Ringgenberg to Interlaken, and east via Oberried to Brienz. In and around the village, marked trails range from leisurely walks to steep climbs. The route to the Suggiture leads to Niederried’s highest point at 2,085 metres.

A longer, steep tour is the “Ausflugsziel Emme” hike, which can be reached from Niederried’s railway and boat stations. It offers panoramic views and follows a ridge into the “Habkern/Sörenberg” Emerald Region and the source area of the Emme. Several springs along the hiking trail feed into the Emme. The long, steep ascent clearly sets this tour apart from the leisurely walking paths.

The Brienzersee Loop offers a different route description: after passing through Ringgenberg, it continues along an unpaved road to Niederried. The route offers views of Lake Brienz. This provides options for orientation both among trails with varying gradients and routes with different courses.

Lake Brienz, swimming area and lakeside path

Niederried has a swimming area directly on the shore of Lake Brienz and right by the lakeside path. Activities on the lake include sailing, surfing, fishing, sunbathing, picnicking, relaxing and swimming; availability may vary by season. The lakeside path also has quiet rest spots right by the lake. Local rules may change, so it is advisable to check the current requirements before visiting the swimming area.

The Entenstein barbecue area is right by the lakeside path and just a few minutes’ walk from the swimming area. It cannot be reserved. Its location makes it a distinct landmark on the lakeshore, while the swimming area and rest spots each offer other options for taking a break.

Getting there and finding your way around

Boats depart in Niederried from the landing stage by the schoolhouse on Untere Gasse. As boat timetables may change seasonally or at other times, check the current departure time before travelling. Niederried is easily accessible from Interlaken Ost by the Zentralbahn; it is also worth checking the timetable here.

The Jungfrau and Meiringen-Hasliberg winter sports regions are about a half-hour drive away. The actual journey time depends on traffic, weather and mode of transport. It also helps with finding accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Gundlischwand, Beatenberg, Hofstetten near Brienz, Grindelwald, Lütschental, Lauterbrunnen, Bönigen, Iseltwald.

Back to the main travel overview: Interlaken.