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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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?
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
Top things to do in the Swiss Alps this January 🇨🇭
Fingers crossed for good snow and weather conditions 🫣
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" www.balmers.com/winter "
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
This 3-day itinerary is dedicated to showcasing the multifaceted allure of Interlaken during its frost-kissed months. It helps you understand why visiting Interlaken in winter should be a bucket list essential for all.
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" https://www.balmers.com/interlaken-in-winter-the-ultimate-3-day-itinerary/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @epic.swiss
Winter at Balmers hits differently.
Cozy evenings, warm chalet vibes after the cold, shared moments over a drink, and that calm you only find in winter.
Fewer crowds, deeper connections.
Interlaken in its softer, more authentic season.
Come for the Alps. Stay for the vibe.
Book your winter stay at Balmers Hostel.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel
The views on Grindelwald-First are simply a 11/10 🤩🤩
Who has to take you on a trip to Grindelwald-First? Tag them below! 😉
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
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📷 @grindelwaldfirst
Harder Potschete, a masked parade & New Year’s tradition in Interlaken
Don`t miss today`s parade. The Harder Potschete starts at 2h10 at Marketplatz.
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" www.balmers.com "
Another year of travellers, memories, and shared moments.
Thank you for being part of the Balmers story. Happy New Year. 🥂
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
December 31 at Balmers.
A last night to slow down, look back, and step forward with good people around you.
Here’s to new stories, fresh plans, and a year ahead that feels lighter, freer, and full of movement.
Wherever midnight finds you, Balmers Hostel wishes you a great year ahead.
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" www.balmers.com "
Winter kayaking hits differently.
High tide, crisp air, glassy water, and the Alps wrapped in silence. This is Interlaken slowed down, calm, cold, and quietly epic.
Paddle through winter light, then come back to warmth, stories, and good company at Balmers Hostel.
Winter isn’t off-season here.
It’s just more real.
Book your stay and experience it for yourself.
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" www.balmers.com/activity/winter-kayak-tours/ "
Cosy corners, soft lights, and that winter calm you didn’t know you needed.
Settle in, slow down, and let the mountains do the rest.
This is your sign to escape the cold outside and warm up at Balmers Hostel.
Book your winter stay now.
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" www.balmers.com/winter "
“Walking from Allmendhubel to Mürren is a true Alpine experience - narrow mountain paths, wooden chalets, and breathtaking views of snowy peaks❄️🇨🇭🏔
One of the most beautiful winter trails, where you feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale.”
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" www.balmers.com/beautiful-swiss-villages-under-the-snow/ "
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📷 @switzerland_with_lucia
Casually freefalling over the alps 🪂🏔️
Who are you trying this with?
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" www.balmers.com/activity/sky-diving/ "
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Repost from @travelflextrip
If you’re visiting Grindelwald, Switzerland, you cannot skip the First Cliff Walk 😮💨
This cliff walk hugs the side of the mountain and delivers equal parts thrill + breathtaking alpine views!
You reach it via the 25 minute Firstbahn gondola from Grindelwald with absolutely stunning views, and the moment you step off… it feels unreal!
Suspended walkways, sheer drops, clouds rolling in, spooky in the best way
If you love viewpoints, adventure, and unforgettable mountain experiences, this is 100% worth it 👏🏼👏🏼
📍 First Cliff Walk, Grindelwald
🚠 Firstbahn Gondola
⛰️ Swiss Alps
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
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📷 @withlove_duquettes
December 25th at Balmers.
Snowy views, warm vibes, and the feeling of home away from home.
Shared meals, genuine connections, cozy corners, and moments that turn into memories. Christmas here means smiles, comfort, and good energy all around.
Celebrate the day with people from everywhere.
Stay warm. Stay together.
Book your stay at Balmers.
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" www.balmers.com/winter "
Merry Christmas from all of us at Balmer’s Hostel.
Cosy nights, good company, winter magic in the Alps.
If you’re dreaming of a festive escape, our doors are open.
Book your stay and spend Christmas with the Balmer’s family.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
Winter at Balmers, quietly festive.
A sled, a touch of snow, a hint of Christmas, just the kind of winter moment you remember later.
After a day out in the cold, come back to warm lights, good company, and a place that feels easy to settle into.
📍 Interlaken, winter edition
🛏️ Book your stay at Balmers and make it part of the season.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
Blausee in winter has a quiet magic to it, clear blue water, snow on the trees, and a stillness that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s the sort of place you slow down without even trying.
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Stay at Balmers and make it one of your winter stops.
" www.balmers.com/the-most-beautiful-lakes-around-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture by @mofitrando
A quick scan and you’ve got all the winter activities at your fingertips, from snowy walks to full mountain days. The board’s in the lobby, the QR codes do the rest.
Stay at Balmers and start planning your winter straight away.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
The Jungfrau Railway: an icon among mountain railways 🚋
This train takes you from Eigergletscher station up to the @Jungfraujochtopofeurope ❄️ The journey takes 26 minutes, and most of the route passes through the mountains Eiger and Mönch via tunnels ⛰️
Halfway through, there is also a stop called ‘Eismeer’ where you can view the glacier from a window in the mountain🪟
Have you ever travelled on this historic train? 🌍
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" www.balmers.com/best-panoramic-train-in-switzerland/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Thank you 📷 adam__kubicek
📷 @grindelwald_eiger
A hostel that feels a bit like home, friendly atmosphere, easy conversations, people you actually enjoy meeting, and a staff who look after you properly. Add the organised activities for guests, and it all comes together rather nicely.
If that’s the sort of stay you’re after, book your room at Balmers.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost by @baydean
Grindelwald has something for everyone 🏔️
Pick any activity, share it with your friends or family, and start planning your next trip in December and over the holidays 🎄
Important: Before you go, always check if the places are open and plan accordingly ✅
Now it’s your turn – which activity will you choose? ❄️
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" www.balmers.com/full-apres-ski-experience-in-grindelwald/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @grindelwald_eiger
Inside tips from @withlove_duquettes
When I say I want to go out to eat, this is what I mean 🫕👀🤤
The Bell Restaurant
📍 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Visiting in the off-season is such a plus, this cost us $25 Swiss francs for both of us together 👏🏼
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" www.balmers.com/food-guide-to-switzerland-and-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Winter kayaking in Interlaken hits differently.
Still water, snow-covered peaks, and that quiet moment where it’s just you, the paddle, and the mountains. Cold air, steady rhythm, unreal views, one of the most peaceful ways to experience Switzerland in winter.
Staying at Balmers? This is one of those activities you’ll remember long after the trip.
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" www.balmers.com/activity/winter-kayak-tours/ "
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Video made by @hightidekayak
The flag out front, a quiet street, and the mountains minding their own business.
Balmers, exactly where it should be.
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Book a bed and make yourself at home in Interlaken.
" www.balmers.com/hostel/shared-dorms/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @alyson.emond
@epic.swiss is giving you every reason to spend your winter in Switzerland!😍☃️🇨🇭
💡Winter in Switzerland is enchanting, with snow-covered mountains, cozy villages, and serene landscapes that feel straight out of a fairy tale. The crisp air, twinkling lights, and charming ski resorts create a magical atmosphere perfect for romance and adventure.
Tag someone you want to spend this winter in Switzerland with!✈️😋
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" www.balmers.com/interlaken-in-winter-the-ultimate-3-day-itinerary/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @switzerland.explores
