the swiss alps hostel.
Balmers is the first private hostel in Switzerland!
Your home away from home in Interlaken...
Balmers Hostel
& the Social vibe
Are you Ready to
MAKE INTERLAKEN YOUR NEXT BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATION
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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, weโve 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. Weโre a very human bunch, and we love connecting in real ways. Weโd 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 whatโs 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 itโs 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 somethingโs not right during your stay. Weโd much rather try to fix things in real time than read about them later when itโs 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 โgood, best, amazingโ 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 stayโand everyone else’sโas 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 PMโsome 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 borrowedโlike 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 indoorsโeven with the window open.
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No cooking outside the guest kitchen.
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Donโt leave windows wide open with the heating on.
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And above all: donโt be disrespectful.
Thanks for being the absolute best! Weโre glad youโre here. ๐งก
What is Balmers Hostel?
Balmers Hostel is Switzerlandโs oldest privately owned hostel, set in three charming Swiss chalets surrounded by mountain peaks waiting to be explored. Itโs 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
Grey skies, fresh mountain air, and maybe some snow on the way. Interlaken still looks pretty good, whatever the weather.
Rainy day ideas: " www.balmers.com/exploring-interlaken-in-the-rain-activities-for-every-mood/ "
Not every day needs a big plan. Grab a board game, find a spot outside and see who joins in.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
One of the best parts of staying at Balmers? Meeting people from all over the world and heading out to explore the mountains together.
Come join us in Interlaken!
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" www.balmers.com/activities "
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๐ท @kianadivinsky
This is where your Interlaken trip starts.
Right in the heart of town, with the mountains and plenty of things to do just around the corner.
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Planning a trip to Interlaken? Check out our rooms at www.balmers.com.
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๐ท @kianadivinsky
Some of the best days around Interlaken are spent simply walking in nature. Mountain trails, turquoise lakes and beautiful views along the way. And the best part? You don`t need to spend much to enjoy it, apart from the occasional cable car ride.
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More hiking ideas at " www.balmers.com/free-activities-interlaken/ "
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๐ท @lauren_paradisetravel
Kayaking is still an option in autumn! The trees around the lake are starting to change colours, and the water is still that beautiful turquoise. A good time to get out on the lake and enjoy the quieter season.
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" www.balmers.com/portfolio/kayak "
A great hostel is all about location, good vibes, fun activities, friendly staff and the people you meet along the way.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
๐ชAndโฆ Weโre Off!
That split second where everything begins: the glider lifts, the lines tighten, and you start running into the open sky.
This is where the adventure starts. Ready to run with us?
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" www.balmers.com/portfolio/paragliding-summer/ "
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๐ธ captured for @paraglidinginterlaken by @dimi_rogers
โWhat`s the best mountain to explore around Interlaken?โ ๐๏ธ
A question we get almost every day at reception! And honestly, it`s hard to pick just one. ๐
From the famous Jungfrau to the incredible views at Harder Kulm or the wild ridges of Augstmatthorn, there`s a mountain adventure for everyone.
๐ฌ Come chat with our team at reception! We`re always happy to share our favorite spots and local tips.
๐ฅพ Check out our guide to the best mountains around Interlaken:
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" www.balmers.com/explore-the-best-mountains-around-interlaken/ "
Oeschinen Lake will always be my favorite ๐๐๏ธ
Just a short trip from Interlaken, this alpine lake near Kandersteg is one of those places that never gets old. Crystal-clear turquoise water, massive mountains, and some pretty amazing hiking trails.
Definitely one of our staff favorites at Balmers! โจ
๐ Oeschinensee, Switzerland
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All you need to know before going to the lake:
" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee "
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Picture by jassika_koo
Went to Switzerland and learned how to fly ๐จ๐ญ๐ช๐ซ๐
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
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๐ท @emersonkleakaa
Genuinely the highlight of my year. What a special day โจ๐จ๐ญ
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" www.balmers.com/activities "
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๐ท @bitsandbites.ie
๐ง๏ธ Rainy day in Interlaken? Still amazing! ๐
Who said you need sunshine to have an unforgettable adventure? โโจ
Rainy days are perfect for slowing down, exploring cozy cafรฉs, chasing misty mountain views, or discovering a whole different side of Interlaken. ๐๏ธ
And when the rain gets a little too much? There`s always good vibes, new friends, and plenty of fun waiting for you at Balmers Hostel! ๐ป
Rain or shine, the adventure never stops! ๐
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๐ Discover what to do on a rainy day in Interlaken: " www.balmers.com/activities/rainy-day-activities-in-interlaken/ "
shweeet
Imagine free-falling at 200 km/h with the Swiss Alps beneath you, turquoise lakes in the distance, and nothing but pure adrenaline! ๐ฅ
Skydiving in Interlaken isn`t just another adventureโฆ it`s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you`ll NEVER forget! ๐
๐ฅ 55 seconds of pure free fall
๐๏ธ Epic views of the Eiger, Mรถnch & Jungfrau
๐ช One unforgettable landing back on Earth!
Soโฆ are you brave enough to take the leap? ๐
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๐ Discover skydiving with Balmers!
" www.balmers.com/activity/sky-diving/ "
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๐ท @zachphilipbar
Your cozy corner at Balmers Hostel ๐กโจ
Whether you`re planning your next adventure, sharing travel stories with new friends, or just enjoying a little downtime, there`s always a spot for you at Balmers! โค๏ธ
Good vibes, great company, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Interlaken. ๐๏ธ
๐ Ready for your Swiss adventure? Book your stay at www.balmers.com
Not your average walk in the mountains. ๐งโโ๏ธโฐ๏ธ
Clip in, step onto the cliff and get ready for one of the most epic adventures around Interlaken.
The Mรผrren Via Ferrata takes you along exposed rock walls, ladders and suspension bridges, with some seriously insane views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. ๐ฎโ๐จ๐๏ธ
Shaky legs? Probably.
Worth it? 100%. ๐
Grab some hostel mates and add this one to your Swiss bucket list. ๐จ๐ญ
Who would you trust to do this with? ๐
๐ Full Via Ferrata guide: " www.balmers.com/via-ferrata-around-interlaken-complete-guide "
Would you jump?
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" www.balmers.com/portfolio/bungy-jumping/ "
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๐ท @outdoorinterlaken
โจ Welcome to Lauterbrunnen โ the valley of 72 waterfalls ๐จ๐ญ๐ฆ
Towering cliffs, green meadows, traditional Swiss chalets and waterfalls dropping straight into the valleyโฆ it doesnโt get much more Swiss than this. ๐๏ธ
Just a short train ride from Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen is an absolute must during your stay at Balmers.
๐ Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
๐ฆ 72 waterfalls
๐ Easy day trip from Interlaken
Save this one for your Swiss adventure!
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๐ More info in our link in bio
" balmers.com/what-to-do-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
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Picture by @panchyk_galina
Interlaken from above ๐๐๏ธ
Turquoise waters, green valleys and the Swiss Alps stretching as far as you can see. Not a bad place to call home for a few days, right?
Come see it for yourself ๐จ๐ญโจ
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" www.balmers.com "
The ultimate European culture shock: wanting a late-night drink and realizing the entire town shut down 3 hours ago.
Thankfully, staying at balmersinterlaken in Interlaken comes with a major perk. You just walk outside into the freezing night air and fill your bottle straight from a random street fountain. No filter, no cost, just pure Alpine glacier water that tastes better than a $5 bottle of Evian.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
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๐ท @punjabi.rover
Top of Interlaken ๐๐,๐๏ธ
You canโt come to Interlaken and skip this view. ๐๏ธ๐จ๐ญ
Harder Kulm is THE classic above Interlaken โ with insane views over Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and the Eiger, Mรถnch & Jungfrau. ๐
๐ฅพ Hike your way up if youโre ready for a steep climb, or take the funicular and save your legs for the next adventure.
Whichever way you get there, the view from the top is 100% worth it.
๐ Harder Kulm โ 1,321m
๐ก Starting from Interlaken, just a short walk from Balmers
Who are you taking up there? ๐
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" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm "
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Pictures by courtneystravels
Kayak mornings, turquoise water, mountain views, and the kind of summer plans youโll still be talking about weeks later ๐ถ๐๏ธโ
โ
Grab a paddle, get on the lake, and see Interlaken from its best angle โ somewhere between โwowโ and โhow is this real?โโ
โ
Staying at Balmerโs?Join the next adventure: " www.balmers.com/activity/kayak/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bio
The best week ever. Thanks to you all. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!! ๐ญ๐ฅน๐ซถ๐ผ๐ฅฐ โ
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-one-day-in-interlaken-the-perfect-itinerary/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
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๐ท @brittcarterr
Imagine waking up, opening your hostel window and seeing this. ๐๏ธโจ
Mountains stretching across the horizon, paragliders floating through the sky, and that feeling that the day could take you anywhere.
Some hostel views just hit different. ๐ช๐
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
