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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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 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 4:00 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?
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.
Get Social
#balmershostel
Sunset hikes and a picnic near the lake
Join us as we chase the horizon and take in breathtaking views, all while getting to know your fellow hikers.
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Every day, we organize a new activity, make sure to check out the board at reception, and join the WhatsApp group
" www.balmers.com/every-tuesday-sunset-hike/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Paddling Lake Brienz into River Aare into Interlaken 🙏
With half-way yoga on SUPs and cheeky swims 💕
Perfection ❤️
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Where can you rent a kayak and SUP around Interlaken?
" www.balmers.com/kayak-and-sup-rentals-around-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @standup_paddleboard_with_ana
Mentally still here, soaking up the good vibes at Balmers Hostel 🌄✨ Whether you’re winding down after a hike or just dreaming of your next adventure, this place has a way of sticking with you long after you leave. Come for the views, stay for the memories.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel/private-rooms/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @h__clarky
Oeschinensee: A Swiss Alpine Dream
Just a short trip from Interlaken, Oeschinensee is a breathtaking mountain lake straight out of a postcard. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, it’s perfect for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in nature’s calm. Whether you rent a rowboat on the crystal-clear water or explore the nearby trails, Oeschinensee offers unforgettable alpine beauty and tranquility. Don’t forget your camera—this is one spot where every view feels like a masterpiece! 🏞️✨
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" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @beautiful____switzerland )
Traveling solo? Our dorm beds at Balmers Hostel provide a comfortable and affordable spot to rest after a day of adventure. Perfect for recharging your energy while staying connected to the buzz of Interlaken. Pack light, sleep tight, and get ready for whatever tomorrow brings! 🛏️✨ #SoloTravel #RestEasy
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Ready to chase waterfalls and feel the thrill? 🌊✨ Join us at Balmers Hostel for an epic canyoning adventure in Chli Schliere Canyon — where turquoise pools, rugged rocks, and nature’s raw power await! Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Who’s up for a splash and some epic memories? 💦🔥 #BalmersAdventures #ChliSchliere #Canyoning #NatureLovers #CanyonVibes
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Book this activity on
" www.balmers.com/activity/canyoning-chli-schliere/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
Boat Trip on Lake Brienz: Discover Alpine Beauty from the Water
Glide across the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and soak in some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery Switzerland has to offer.
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" www.balmers.com/activities "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Video made by @timulrich.pix
Friendship is the best souvenir you can collect on the road 🌍❤️ Up here at Harder Kulm, with panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see, every laugh and shared moment feels bigger, brighter, and unforgettable. Whether you’re watching the sunset or catching your breath after the climb, it’s those friendships made along the way that turn a trip into a lifelong adventure. Tag your travel crew who made your journey epic! 🏞️✨
#BalmersVibes #TravelFriends #HarderKulmMagic
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" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Backpacking? Staying in a hostel is the ultimate hack! 🎒✨ At Balmers Hostel, meet fellow travelers from all over, swap epic stories, and dive into adventures together. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with good vibes. Ready to make friends and memories? Your next adventure starts here! 🌍
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Ready to turn those legs into legends? 🚶♂️💪 Join our Giessbachfall hike — where the waterfalls roar louder than your excuses! 🌊😂 It’s the perfect mix of fresh air, epic views, and good company. Plus, bragging rights for conquering one of Interlaken’s best-kept secrets. Who’s in for some laughs, nature, and maybe a splash or two? Let’s hike, chat, and make memories! 🌲🥾 #BalmersHikes #WaterfallWanderers #AdventureCrew
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" www.balmers.com/hike-to-giessbach-falls/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by Sydney
🔥 Weekly Activities at the Hostel 🔥
Get ready for an epic week! 👇
🍖 Monday – 7 PM
Bring Your Own BBQ – you bring the food, we bring the fire! 🔥
🥾 Tuesday – 11AM
Hike to Giessbach Waterfalls – nature at its finest 🌿
🧠 Wednesday – 8:30 PM
Trivia Night – show us what you’ve got! 😏
🎉 10:30 PM Club Night – let’s dance! 💃
💃 Thursday – 8 PM
Bachata Class – shake those hips to Caribbean rhythms 🎶
🌅 Friday – 6 PM
Sunset at the lake – chill vibes & stunning views 🧘♂
🎱 Saturday – 8 PM
Bingo Night – prizes & good laughs 🎁
🎉 10:30 PM Club Night – again? Oh yes! 🕺
🛶 Sunday – 9:30AM
Kayak Adventure – paddle into the wild 💦
👉 Please note: Activities may change depending on the weather.
See you there!
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-get-together/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
ITINERARY ⬇️ NO GATEKEEPING
Day 1 - Harder Kulm & Giessbach Falls 🌳
You can either do a 2-hour hike up to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, OR take a 10-minute cable car. There is a restaurant and cafe at the top, then further up, there is a forest where you can continue your hike.
Take a 30-minute train from Interlaken Ost to Brienz, then hop on the boat to Giessbach Falls (1 stop, 20 min journey). When you get to Giessbach Falls, the entire hike up to the main waterfall and back down will take you around 2 hr.
Day 2 - Schilthorn & Grindelwald🚡🗻
Get the train to Lauterbrunnen, then from there get a bus to Murren, from here you can take the cable car up to the peak of Schilthorn mountain and catch some amazing snowy views. This mountain is basically the same as Jungfraujoch Mountain, even the locals say you should just go to Schilthorn to save money because it`s just the same thing!
After taking in the views, get the cable car back down to Murren and find yourself a way back to Lauterbrunnen, where you`ll take a train to Grindelwald. Depending on the season, you can go to Grindelwald First, where you`ll be able to go on a nice walk and do a bunch of fun activities. This opens May 23rd and will close in the Autumn! There is also Pfingstegg, which is walking distance from the Grindelwald train station.
Day 3 - Oeschinensee 🏝️🏔️
Get the train to Oeschinen (Bergstation) and then walk 15 minutes to the cable car to take you to the start of the Oeschinensee hike/trail. You can do the slide before or after you start the hike, then it`s a 20-30 min walk to Oeschinensee lake, there are a lot of different routes around the lake and up the mountains so make sure you grab a map at the entrance to see which one you`d prefer to do! You can hire a paddle boat for 30 Swiss Francs for an hour on the lake. We weren`t allowed to swim when we went (mid-May), but I believe it`s seasonal and you should be able to swim in the summer. If you go to the cafe at the top, just keep in mind that they take cash only
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/"
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📷 @joshgoesgym
Who’s ready to test their fear of heights?🤓
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Our complete guide for via ferrata around Interlaken
" www.balmers.com/via-ferrata-around-interlaken-complete-guide/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
Have you ever been to a place that feels like a dream? 🤔 If not, Grindelwald might be the spot to add to your list! couldn’t get enough of these breathtaking views. 🌄
🗻 Fun fact: Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s oldest mountain resorts, known as the “Glacier Village.” Its stunning landscapes have been inspiring travelers for centuries.
⁉️ Who would you bring here to experience this incredible scenery?
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" www.balmers.com/top-hikes-around-grindelwald/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @switzerland.explores @wheretonextyall
🥾🇨🇭 Hiking views in Switzerland are unreal — endless trails, epic peaks, and lakes so blue they look fake! Start your adventure from Balmers and see it for yourself. Who’s ready to hit the trails? 🏔️✨
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-guide-to-hiking-in-the-interlaken-region-trails-tips-scenic-routes/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @sebpic_
Is bed linen provided?
Yes! We provide all bed linen. We have a short video to show you how to make your bed. At check-out, we kindly ask you to bring the sheets and covers down to reception.
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" www.balmers.com/faq/#hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🧺✨ Picnic by the lake? Always a good idea! Grab snacks from the local shop, find a sunny spot by the turquoise shores, and chill with mountain views all around. Simple, cheap, unforgettable. 🌊🏞️ #LakeDays #InterlakenVibes #PicnicPerfect
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" www.balmers.com/every-tuesday-sunset-hike/ "
💸✨ 2 days in Interlaken for under $100? Yes, it’s possible! Stay comfy at Balmers Hostel 🏡, grab fresh bites at local grocery stores 🥪🍏, and explore epic views for free — lakes, mountains, waterfalls, all on foot or with budget-friendly trails. Spend less, adventure more! 🌲🏔️
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in the bio
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📷 @xeniaminton
🍫 Get your sweet fix in Interlaken! Join our Funky Chocolate Club workshop and make your Swiss chocolate bars — fun, messy, delicious! 🤎 Who’s in?
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Book your chocolate workshop here:
" www.balmers.com/activity/funky-chocolate-workshop/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @funkychocolateclub
🪂☀️ From Spring Breezes to Summer Dreams! ☀️🪂
Blue skies, sunny days, happy faces — and the breathtaking beauty of Interlaken from above!
Glide through clear skies with Lake Thun sparkling below and the mighty Jungfrau peaks rising on the horizon. Every flight is pure joy and freedom! 🏔️✨
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" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @paraglidinginterlaken
📸 captured for PGI by sonsibar
+ pascal_geebelen
+danroborgh
Harder Kulm flexin’ like a boss right behind us 😎🏔️ If you think climbing it’s tough, wait till you try resisting the views! Pro tip: Take the funicular up and then pretend you totally hiked it. 🥾😂 What’s your favorite Interlaken adventure? Drop your best tips or funniest fails in the comments—let’s hear those stories! 👇🔥
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" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @cm94aan
This is NOT just any lake😍🇨🇭
This might be one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland.
The name of this place is:
📍Oeschinensee
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A day trip to Oeschinensee is ideal for its proximity to Interlaken and the variety of activities you can enjoy.
" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @travelih
💌✨ Before you go, leave a little piece of your adventure behind! Drop a postcard with your best memories of your stay at Balmers — your stories and souvenirs inspire the next travellers to make theirs. 🗺️❤️ #TravelMemories
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All you need to know about Balmers Hostel:
" www.balmers.com/faq/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @maciekoliva
♻️ Eco-Wanderer Alert: Travel green, save big, stay epic.
🚆Choose train or bus over plane - convert your CO2 saving into a 5-20% discount at any Famous Hostels across Europe. Check out our CO2 calculator to see how much you could save!
How do you travel in Europe?
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" www.balmers.com/sustainable-travel-train-bus-europe-eco-wanderer/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @famoushostels
