Erschwanden Falls Circular Hike

From Lake Brienz, this woodland hike climbs to the Erschwandenfall and Oberallmi. Views of Bönigen and the Bödeli accompany the return route through open meadows and the village.

The nearly nine-kilometre circuit starts at the tourist office by the Bönigen, See bus stop. The route initially leads straight to the shore of Lake Brienz. Its steep banks continue below the water, so shallow-water zones are rare. After the lakeside section, the route leaves the houses behind and climbs into the forest on a yellow-marked hiking trail.

After just under three kilometres, the Erschwandenfall lies only a few steps from the path. However, the stream may carry little or no water. The trail then winds through the protected forest and continues uphill. At Oberallmi, the barbecue area offers views of Bönigen and the Bödeli. The highest point of the hike is reached in open terrain at around 730 m.

The route descends again via Ankeweidli and Bömberge. There is a farm shop at Acherhubel farm before the route passes the restored Chrottegräbli, a habitat for many animals. The circuit is not recommended in heavy rain. Through Bönigen, the route passes the church and returns to the tourist office by the Bönigen, See bus stop.