A Day trip to the Beautiful Lakeside Town
of Iseltwald
A Picturesque Lakeside Town Near Interlaken
The other day we took a day trip to the beautiful lakeside town of Iseltwald, not far from Interlaken. With its timber-clad chalets, colourful flowers and views across the turquoise waters of lake Brienz it really is one of the prettiest Swiss towns you can visit. In fact, the entire area of Iseltwald is designated part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and lots of forests beyond and the lakeside promenade has a boat stop so when the passenger boats are running in the Summer, you can take cruises across the lake.
Iseltwald is Home to the Iconic Schloss Seeburg
It is also home to the iconic Schloss Seeburg – or Seeburg Castle. This marvellous architectural gem was built in 1907 and has had a rather interesting history over the years. However, the castle is privately owned and not open to the public. You can view it from the edge of the lake, from high up on the hiking trails above and from the lake and it adds a certain elegance to the little town.
Top Things To Do in Iseltwald
Walking and Swimming
With its beautiful little flower covered cottages, cobbled streets and unique charm, it’s definitely worth going for a stroll. There is plenty to see and do so and as it’s quite small you can’t really get lost..
There are some fine examples of wood carvings all around as this is the area famous for the craft. In fact in nearby Brienz there is even a wood carving school.
From the main square where the bus station is located you can explore the area around the ferry station and if you turn to the right you can walk along the lake front.
We went on a sunny day at the end of May and there were plenty of people swimming in the lake – so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit.
Stand Up Paddleboards
You can also hire Stand Up Paddleboards from quite a few places along the promenade as well as the official “Badi” or bathing area, there are plenty of places along the lake where you can just dive in.
On the Lake
We hired a motor boat from the “Boot Vermietung” location (you just follow the signs from the main square) and they also rent out Pedallos and small rowing boats at reasonable prices too. It’s a great way to explore the lake and to see Schloss Seeburg from the water.
If you prefer bigger boats then during the Summer Season head to the port area where you can go for a cruise.
Admire Schloss Seeburg
There are so may different views of this striking castle.
Cafés and Restaurants
If you didn’t stop at one of the cafes or restaurants off the main square, then why not sit down at one of the establishments along the promenade. There is everything from cold drinks and ice cream, to pizza to sit down meals on offer. And of course the view is just sensational. Above you can see the “Badi” where you can relax on the lawns and go for a swim.
Go For a Walk or Hike
There are some lovely walks and hikes around here. You can quite simply continue along the promenade and then take the very pretty walk along the tow path by the lake. The path is fairly flat with a few lumps and bumps, but it’s suitable for even young children and we saw quite a few families with strollers.
The views across the lake are constantly changing with the light. The turquoise colour of the water is so deep it sometimes looks as if it has been photoshopped.
Three Waterfalls Hike
If you have enough time you could to walk do the Three Waterfalls Hike.
Whatever you do you’re bound to have fun in this very picturesque Swiss town.
How To Get There
By Public Transport
Take the train from Zurich to Interlaken Ost or West and then the 103 Bus to Iseltwald.
Driving
If you’re driving please note that it does get busy and the car parks tend to fill up quite early. We arrived late afternoon and because we couldn’t find a space in the metered car parks above the village so we ended up going to a car park a little higher up which was perfectly fine
The drive from Zurich is a little under two hours, depending on which part of Zurich you are coming from.
Iseltwald
Click here for directions on how to get to Iseltwald.
See the location of Schloss Seeburg in Iseltwald on Google Maps below:
To See more photos of the stunning Schloss Seeburg click here.
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