Grandhotel Giessbach

Featuring French Baroque-style architecture from 1875, the hotel merges historic grandeur with sustainable hospitality. Saved from demolition in the 1980s by environmentalist Franz Weber, Grandhotel Giessbach is today a protected heritage landmark and a symbol of the Belle Époque. Guests can enjoy beautifully preserved historic lounges, a peaceful library, and panoramic lakefront terraces. To encourage true relaxation, guest rooms intentionally omit air conditioning and minibars (a complimentary refreshment station with spring water, coffee, and fruit is available on the third floor). Amenities include EV charging stations and a complimentary shuttle service from Brienz railway station.

Grandhotel Giessbach offers a timeless sanctuary where life slows down to foster deep relaxation, cultural appreciation, and harmony with nature. Pets are warmly welcomed with in-room amenities and optional dog-sitting services. Throughout the year, the hotel hosts a curated calendar of special events, including intimate music concerts (Giessbach Sessions) and traditional grand balls in historic attire. For leisure, guests can enjoy an eco-friendly outdoor natural swimming pool filtered naturally without any chemicals.

Comprising Single Rooms, Double Rooms, and Suites, the accommodations feature late 19th-century antique furnishings and unique historical details. Rooms offer captivating views over the waterfalls or the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. Sleep quality is paramount, with beds equipped with eco-certified mattresses crafted by the heritage Swiss manufacturer Elite.

The hotel’s culinary philosophy centers on regional heritage and organic production. Ingredients are sourced locally, with herbs, vegetables, and honey harvested directly from the hotel’s own gardens, greenhouses, and beehives.

• Parkrestaurant "Les Cascades": Overlooking the waterfalls, serving French and Swiss classic cuisine with daily à la carte options and seasonal dinner menus.

• Elisa – Bistro & Terrace: An acclaimed dining spot with Lake Brienz views, awarded 14 Gault&Millau points and a Michelin Green Star.

• Kehrli Terrace: A sun-drenched outdoor venue for casual midday dining and seasonal dishes.

• Hotel Bar: Located on the Belle Époque floor, offering Swiss spirits, classic cocktails, and nostalgic charm.

Grandhotel Giessbach is dreamily situated above Lake Brienz in Switzerland. Surrounded by a 22-hectare natural park preserved by the non-profit Giessbach Foundation, the property stands directly opposite the thunderous Giessbach Falls, which cascade 400 meters down into the lake. Guests can reach the hotel via scenic mountain routes or via the historic Giessbachbahn — one of the world's oldest operating funicular railways, dating back to 1879 — connecting the boat landing stage directly to the hotel.