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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The best reviews!
We read every review - and we genuinely appreciate all kinds of feedback. The positive ones lift our spirits, and the critical ones help us grow.
That said, we’ve decided not to respond to every single review individually. Instead, we choose to focus our time and energy on actually improving things here at the hostel.
We know that nowadays, people often expect businesses to reply to every review - partly to show they care, and partly to boost visibility online. And we do care, deeply. But replying to every single comment just so it looks like we care feels inauthentic to us. We’re a very human bunch, and we love connecting in real ways. We’d rather keep things real than turn reviews into a checkbox exercise.
We also know reviews are deeply personal and subjective. Please read them with that in mind and take what’s helpful for you in deciding whether Balmers is the right place for your stay.
On a more personal note: getting a negative review, especially when it’s rooted in a lack of communication, can be really disheartening. Our team is always around and available for a chat in person, and you can also reach us by email, phone, or WhatsApp if something’s not right during your stay. We’d much rather try to fix things in real time than read about them later when it’s too late to help.
Everyone here at Balmers genuinely cares about what we do.We want your time with us to become part of the “good, best, amazing” kind of memories you take home.
FAQs
Got questions? We\'ve got answers.
Welcome to Balmers! First time here?
We’re stoked you made it! To help make your stay—and everyone else’s—as awesome as possible, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Be Cool:
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Respect others and their belongings.
- Keep it quiet after 10 PM—some legends like to sleep.
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Check-out is by 10 AM. Please bring your sheets, duvet cover, and pillowcase to reception (no need to bring duvets or pillows).
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Return anything you borrowed—like room keys or adapters.
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Lights and fans off when you leave the room, please!
A Few No-Gos:
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No smoking indoors—even with the window open.
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No cooking outside the guest kitchen.
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Don’t leave windows wide open with the heating on.
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And above all: don’t be disrespectful.
Thanks for being the absolute best! We’re glad you’re here. 🧡
What is Balmers Hostel?
Balmers Hostel is Switzerland’s oldest privately owned hostel, set in three charming Swiss chalets surrounded by mountain peaks waiting to be explored. It’s a relaxed, social place where travelers can connect, unwind, and enjoy a playful, one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Oh, and before we forget, we do throw a party or two, especially in high season.
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 10 people, and anyone with a sense of adventure and respect for others.
What time is check in and check out?
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM
Check-out is by 10:00 AM
When checking out, we kindly ask you to bring your bed sheets, duvet cover, and pillowcase down with you. Thanks!
I'm arriving really late, will I still be able to check in?
No worries. If you arrive after reception closes at 10.00 pm, you can use the check-in kiosk. Please come see us in the morning to get everything you’ll need during your stay.
Get Social
#balmershostel
Good vibes, great people, unforgettable nights. 🍻✨
Whether you`re here for one night or one week, Balmer`s is where strangers become travel buddies. Grab a drink, join the conversation, and make memories that last long after checkout.
📍 Balmer`s Hostel, Interlaken
🌍 Meet travelers from all over the world
🍺 Good drinks • Great atmosphere • Amazing people.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
Grindelwald First Cliff Walk features a suspension bridge that lets people cross to enjoy amazing views of the mountains.
📍First 2, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
🚗 To get to the place, take the gondola from the Grindelwald Firstbahn gondola lift station.
💰 No admission fee to visit, just tickets for the cable car to get to Firstbahn & back to Grindelwald Village.
⏰️ Opening & closing hours depend on the season. Check their website for the times.
⁉️ Would you visit Grindelwald First Cliff Walk?! Comment below 👇.
💖 Follow @joyfulloftravels for more travel tips & how to save money on your next trip.
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Dreaming of Switzerlaaaand🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/hostel/shared-dorms/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @addiesavleyyy
Indescribable feeling! 🦋
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" www.balmers.com/activity/bungy-jumping/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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🎥 @outdoorinterlaken
🎧 The Balmers Club. 🍻
The club is open for our guests, and the tables are set for the evening. We’ve got beer pong tournaments lined up, the music sorted, and the dance floor ready.
It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, have a proper dance, and catch up with everyone. No fuss, just a brilliant night out right under the hostel.
👇 Fancy a game? Grab your partner, head down to the club, and let’s see who’s actually got any aim. 👇
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" www.balmers.com/club-nights/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
It feels like jumping out of a car driving at 200 km/h and never hitting the ground. 🚗💨
But getting to the exit of the plane and realizing you have to fall out of it, trusting all the gear, equipment, and skills of the tandem instructors, can be daunting.
The landing might feel tense for your nerves, but after you land, you’ll feel relieved and accomplished for overcoming your fear. It’s a must for everyone at least once in a lifetime!
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" www.balmers.com/activity/sky-diving/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
⚽️ Match day tonight. 🇨🇭
The Swiss squad is on the pitch this evening, and we’ll be showing all the action live on the big screen in the lounge. The beers are cold, the sofas are ready, and it’s shaping up to be a brilliant evening.
Whether you’re backing Switzerland, supporting the opposition, or simply want to enjoy the game with a proper crowd, you’re more than welcome to join us. 🍻🍿
👇 Drop your score predictions in the comments, grab a pint, and we’ll see you before kickoff. 👇
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Chill out together?
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" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "
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Repost from @michaelimboden
Lauterbrunnen Valley 🏔️🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
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Video by @amir.explores
🌅 Golden hour hits different in Interlaken. ✨
When the sun starts dropping behind the peaks, there is only one place you want to be: down by the water. Whether you fancy a quick evening dip or just want to sit on the edge with your friends and watch the sky turn brilliant shades of pink and orange, it`s an absolute must-do.
Pack a couple of drinks and take a quick stroll down to the lake. Trust us, you don`t want to miss tonight`s view.
👇 Tag the travel mate you’re dragging down to the lake for sunset tonight! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/every-tuesday-sunset-hike/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🌟 When the sun goes down, Balmers lights up. ✨
There is something proper magical about coming back to the hostel after a massive day of exploring and seeing the old chalet glowing like this.
👇 Who’s joining us for a legendary night out this week? Drop a 🙋♂️ in the comments! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @zachphilipbar
☀️ Terrace weather = Pints poured. 🍻
There is absolutely nothing better than a crisp, ice-cold beer after a massive day out in the Swiss Alps. Our terrace is officially open, the sun is out, and the views are looking proper sharp. 🏔️✨
Whether you’re cooling off after a hike, swapping travel stories with new mates, or just soaking up the mountain air, we’ve got a spot saved for you.
👇 Fancy a pint? Grab your travel crew, head down to the terrace, and let’s get the drinks in! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/adventure-hostel-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🌅 Views that absolutely take your breath away. 🇨🇭🏔️
There’s nothing quite like gathering your travel mates and heading up to catch the evening glow over Interlaken. The panoramic views from Harder Kulm are an absolute masterclass when the day winds down over the lakes.
This is exactly what hostel life is all about—meeting an amazing bunch of people from all over the world and sharing unforgettable moments like this. 🎒✨
👇 Who’s in your ultimate travel circle? Tag your friends below and start planning your next peak adventure! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by Roison Williams
True Western Experience
The largest Festival of its kind
Three Days of Action & Pure Western Vibes
Engines roar, dust swirls, music echoes through the night.
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" www.balmers.com/truckers-country-festival/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
⚽️ World Cup Vibes = ABSOLUTE SCENES! 🌍🏆
The living room is officially sorted, the telly is massive, and the atmosphere is going to be electric. We’re screening the World Cup matches live right here at Balmers Hostel!
Whether you`re chanting for your home country or just in it for the pure drama of the game, grab a cold one, bag a spot on the sofa, and come join the global fan club in our lounge. 🍻🍿
👇 Who are you backing to go all the way? Drop your predictions below and come catch the kickoff! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Making new local friends on the trails today. 🐐⛰️
You haven’t truly experienced hiking in the Swiss Alps until you’ve been completely outpaced by a mountain goat who didn’t even pack water or hiking boots.
Here in Interlaken, the trail guides come in all shapes, sizes, and fluffiness levels. Just ask the crew at our front desk for the best routes to spot these locals, grab your backpack, and hit the ridges! 🎒🥾
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "
POV: The Switzerland itinerary said “sightseeing,” but the chocolate workshop stole the show 🍫🤎
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" www.balmers.com/activity/funky-chocolate-workshop/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @funkychocolateclub
🇨🇭 TOP 10 places I would not miss in Switzerland this summer ⛰️✨
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, save this list because these spots genuinely exceeded every expectation.
📍 Grindelwald First
📍 Bachalpsee
📍 Oeschinensee
📍 Lauterbrunnen
📍 Brienz
📍 Thun
📍 Kandersteg
📍 Interlaken
📍 Harder Kulm
📍 Lake Brienz viewpoints
From turquoise alpine lakes and dramatic waterfalls to some of the most incredible mountain views I’ve ever seen, Switzerland is one of those destinations that looks even better in real life.
Which one would you visit first? 👇
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @daniella.solotravels
Some leave footprints, others leave postcards & great pictures 💌
Our guests leave their mark at Balmers in their own way: a sticker, a note, a doodle, or a memory shared with new friends. Years later, these little pieces of history still tell the story of travellers from all over the world who called Balmers home for a few nights.
What would your Balmers legacy be? 👀
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Thanks, @willpuckett, for the pictures and the kind words.
How to get to this incredible hike🌸🌿🇨🇭
📍Oeschinensee, Switzerland
*Drive to the village called Kandersteg
*From Kandersteg, you can either hike or take the cable car from Kandersteg to Oeschinensee rodelbahn (CHF 40 tour/ retour p.p)
🥾From the top of the cable car station:
*Follow the path until you meet the first crossroad.
*At the crossroad, you can either keep going straight or go down to the lake. That’s a great option for families with kids.
*If you want to see the spectacular views in the video, take the path to the left. You will walk past a shed among other things.
*After walking for approximately 10-15 minutes on the left path, you’ll see a «portal» to your left. Through this portal, you can see a narrower and rocky path that goes upwards in the mountain. Take this path and follow this
*This path takes you around the lake with stunning views, and you will meet this viewpoint on the way.
*Hiking time from the cable station to this viewpoint is approximately 1.5 hours, depending on how many stops you make
*If you walk from Kandersteg, it will take around 3 hours to reach this viewpoint
*You can choose to continue and walk around the lake, or you can go back the same way you came from.
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" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @norwegiantravelcouple
Gather around the fire, share stories under the stars, and make memories with travellers from around the world. From cosy evenings by the fire pit to spontaneous conversations in the garden, this is what hostel life is all about. 🔥✨
Who would you bring to Balmers for a night like this?
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
I left my heart (and 100% of my diet) at the top of Interlaken. 🧀❤️
Name a better duo than panoramic Alpine views and a pot of bubbling Swiss fondue… I’ll wait. 👇🏔️
📍 Harder Kulm, Interlaken, Switzerland 🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/activity/harder-kulm/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @explore.throughmylens
Welcome to the Streetfood Festival Original Tour 2026!
Switzerland tastes the world
As a free event, we will be hosting 19 festivals in 17 cities across Switzerland.
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" wwww.streetfood-festivals.ch/interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
✨🇨🇭 You’re going to have a beautiful adventure here!
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @switzerlanderss
