the swiss alps hostel.
Balmers is the first private hostel in Switzerland!
Your home away from home in Interlaken...
Balmers Hostel
& the Social vibe
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MAKE INTERLAKEN YOUR NEXT BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATION
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FAQs
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Who is Balmers Hostel?
We are the oldest and most fun hostel in Switzerland! We are situated in three traditional Swiss wooden chalets that surround a courtyard, terras, and garden. The look and feel of our accommodation can best be described as playful, comfy, and unique.
Who is Balmers Hostel for?
Balmers Hostel is for open-minded and easygoing travelers aged 18 and over looking for more than just a place to sleep.
Whether you’re here to explore the Swiss Alps, meet like-minded people from around the world, or simply relax and enjoy the vibe – Balmers is your home away from home.
We welcome solo travellers, groups of up to 8 people, and anyone with a sense of adventure and respect for others.
What time is check in and check out?
Check in starts at 4 pm/ Check out is until 10 am. On check out we kindly ask you to bring down your bed sheets as well as duvet covers and pillow covers.
I'm arriving really late, will I still be able to check in?
Yes, but you’ll have to check in online. We’ll then prepare your keys so that you can get to your room after reception closes.
How do I get to the hostel from the train station / bus station?
By bus:
From the Interlaken West station take the bus number 105 and get off at the stop Hotel Sonne. This takes 5 minutes
From the Ost Station take the bus number 104 and get off at the stop Hotel Sonne. This takes 5 minutes
We are about 30 meters from both stops. Bus fare is Sfr 3.80 per person. Busses start running from 07.00am till about 20:30pm.once you arrive at the hostel we will provide you with a free bus pass for your convenience and for the remainder of your stay
Walking:
It takes about 20 minutes from both stations
From Interlaken West station – turn left out of the station and follow the main street, turn right at the traffic circle just after Mc Donalds all the way down. Stay on the left hand side of the road and walk straight until you see brown signs pointing to Balmers. Follow these signs
How to get to Balmers from Interlaken West Station
From Interlaken Ost station – exit straight out of station, between the bank and the Coop shopping Centre, straight through two traffic circles, and follow brown signs to Balmers.
You can also get a taxi for about 15 chf from either train station.
How to get to Balmers from Interlaken Ost Station
From the airport:
We have three major airports, Zurich, Geneva and Basel
Click on the following link to see the time schedules, no need to book a seat in Switzerland and you can purchase your tickets on arrival.
https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html
Get Social
#balmershostel
Rainy Wednesday hit different at Balmers ☔️✨
Our little mountain crew is always ready – backpacks on, hiking boots laced, and that cheeky Alpine spirit in the air. Easter may be over, but the adventures? Just getting started.
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" www.balmers.com/exploring-interlaken-in-the-rain-activities-for-every-mood/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by @thedaphneofficial
🌸 Spring is in full swing in Interlaken, and Balmers is buzzing with good vibes! The sun`s out, hikes are calling, and Easter weekend left us with sweet memories (and maybe a few too many chocolate bunnies 🐰🍫). Let`s make this week one to remember – who`s in? 🌞⛰️
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" www.balmers.com/spring "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Some views never get old... ⛰️✨
Jungfrau doing her thing in the background — and someone living their best life in the sky.
Interlaken is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place.
Would you hike it? Fly it? Or just stare at it with a cold beer?
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" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by @makayla.cs
💡 Fun Fact:
Balmers is the oldest private hostel in Switzerland! Hosting backpackers since 1945 — that`s almost 80 years of wild stories, epic parties, and new friendships made in Interlaken 💛
Once a family farmhouse... now a home for travelers from all over the world.
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" www.balmers.com/about-us/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by @pachu.dut
Top Ways to Relax and Unwind in Interlaken.
Indulge Yourself in Interlaken: The Best Ways to Relax and Enjoy
Relaxing in this small Swiss town might seem counterintuitive, but Interlaken knows how to pamper its guests. If sore legs from hiking in bad weather don’t sound like your ideal vacation, don’t worry—Interlaken has plenty of ways to help you unwind. Take a scenic train ride or simply relax after a spa day at the beach.
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" www.balmers.com/top-ways-to-relax-and-unwind-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
✨Picnic days are the best days!
This week we took our guests for a chill afternoon by the lake — good vibes, local snacks, swims & new friends guaranteed 💛
Staying at Balmers? You never know what spontaneous adventures you`ll end up in!
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-get-together/ "
Make sure to check out our board at reception for our next activity.
🔗 More info in our link in bio
A red flag I can’t ignore 🇨🇭
Spotted at Balmers:
“If you see someone without a smile 😊 give them one of yours.”
Challenge accepted 😁
Around here, good vibes are contagious — pass it on!
#SmileMore #GoodVibesOnly #HostelHappiness #InterlakenFeels
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @rheapunjani
Save Money in Switzerland: Travel Hacks You Need to Know
With a few smart tricks, you can make your money go further and still experience the best of Switzerland. Here’s how to travel on a budget without missing out.
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" www.balmers.com/save-money-in-switzerland/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture from @kurbatova__07
Are you ready for the Swiss summer hiking season? 🏃🏼♂️☀️
I can`t wait to put the hiking shoes back on! 🥾
Welcome to Oeschinensee, a pristine mountain lake situated at 1578m, fed by the glacial streams of the 3000m peaks of the Blüemlisalp, Oeschinenhorn, Fründenhorn & the Doldenhorn 🏔
In Summer, a paradise for hiking and swimming, and in my opinion, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the whole of Switzerland 🏊🏻♂️🇨🇭
🙋🏼♂️ In frame: palg1305
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" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📸 @bsmith.ch
« Lost in the magic of 📍Lauterbrunnen📍, Switzerland🇨🇭
- where a jaw-dropping view reveals a charming village nestled beneath towering mountains. The iconic bell tower chimes over cascading waterfalls, framing one of the Alps’ most unforgettable scenes. 🇨🇭»
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🔗 More info in our link in bio
" www.balmers.com/hiking-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
Lauterbrunnen, in the heart of the Jungfrau region, is famous for its dramatic valley filled with 72 waterfalls spilling down its cliffs. If you try to count them all, you might be busy all day!
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Repost from @yannisvista
🔥 First salsa night at Balmers! 💃🕺
New moves, new laughs, and a whole lot of rhythm.
Who knew your backpacking trip came with dance lessons? 😉
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Every day, a new activity for our guests
" www.balmers.com/social-activities-get-together/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Care to join? Check out our reception board to know what is happening tomorrow.
The beauty of Lake Brienz 😍🤩
GIESSBACH FALLS HIKE: A HALF-DAY ADVENTURE FROM ISELTWALD
Looking for a relaxed, scenic hike near Interlaken? The Giessbach Falls trail is a great choice. Just a 20-minute bus ride from Interlaken Ost, you’ll arrive in Iseltwald, a charming Swiss village nestled on the shore of Lake Brienz. This easy trail follows the shoreline to the stunning Giessbach Falls- perfect for anyone craving a laid-back adventure.
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" www.balmers.com/hike-to-giessbach-falls/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @schweiz.vibess
🛏️✨ Sleep tight at Balmers! Comfy dorms & private rooms with a cozy chalet vibe, mountain views, and all the essentials: locker under your bed, USB plug by your pillow, free Wi-Fi, guest kitchen, laundry & more. Everything you need for the perfect Interlaken base 🏔️🔌🔒
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" www.balmers.com/hostel/private-rooms/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🚞 Taking the Wrong Route to Interlaken?
If you’re traveling from Zurich, skip the Bern route—it’s faster but far less scenic! Take the Lucerne Interlaken Express instead. 🏔️
🌟 Stunning mountain views, turquoise lakes, and authentic villages make it worth the extra time. Pro tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views! 🎥✨
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" www.balmers.com/spring-in-interlaken-activities-and-tips/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @switzerlandinsider
Balmers Hostel is renowned for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Established in 1907, it stands as the oldest private hostel in Switzerland, offering travelers a unique blend of traditional Swiss charm and modern hospitality.
The hostel is housed within three traditional Swiss wooden chalets that encircle a courtyard, terrace, and garden, creating a cozy and inviting environment. This distinctive setting has made Balmers a favorite among travelers seeking both comfort and a lively social scene.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
How Long Should You Stay in Interlaken? A Complete Guide
That’s probably the most complex question when planning your trip.
How do you determine the right number of days to see the highlights and get a real feel for the place?
Of course, the more days, the better—but let’s be honest, you’re probably on a bigger trip, and Interlaken is just one stop. You need to fit everything into the time you have. Plus, the weather here can be unpredictable, and sometimes it won’t be on your side. Some activities might get canceled, so it’s always good to have a backup plan.
Here’s a guide to help you decide how long to stay based on what you want to see and do.
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" www.balmers.com/how-many-days-do-you-need-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🧠✨ Trivia night at Balmers! Just one of the many daily social activities that bring travelers together from all over the world. From karaoke to yoga, there’s always something happening here — come for the bed, stay for the vibe 💛
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-get-together/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Idea for a spring hike between Thun and Interlaken 🌸
Start: The walk begins in Thun, where you will take the boat to Merlingen (check the boat timetable, there aren’t many)
🥾 Walking time: 4:00
↗️ 360 metres of altitude difference
🚩 Arrival at Interlaken West station
🛥️ The price of the boat from Thun to Merlingen and the train from Interlaken West back to Thun is CHF 21.80 with a half-fare card (CHF 43.60 without a season ticket)
🏔️ The walk takes in the famous St.Beatus Caves, which are open all year round and cost CHF 20
📌 Don’t forget to save the reel for your next spring hike!
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" www.balmers.com/5-must-do-hikes-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @swissdiscover
