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
Home is where the hostel kitchen is. ❤️
One of our favorite parts of summer at Balmers is watching the communal kitchen come alive in the evenings. Tonight, we’re swapping out standard backpacker pasta for a true Swiss masterpiece: homemade fondue! 🫕✨
🔗 Ready to join the family? Book your bed via the link in our bio!
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
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🎒 #BalmersHostel #MyInterlaken #TravelCommunity #BackpackingSwitzerland #HostelWorld #SwissCulture
🇨🇭…and it’s only 30 minutes from interlaken! definitely a slower and calmer pace in the region.
🌟definitely a good day trip from interlaken and glad we didnt skip this town while in the jungfrau region!
📍 Thun
One of the most underrated day trips in Switzerland. It has alpine views, a turquoise river, castle views, and a charming Old Town that feels straight out of a postcard.
📍 MUST VISIT SPOTS IN THUN
• Thun Castle
• Aare River walkways
• Obere Hauptgasse
• Lakefront promenade on Lake Thun
• Cute cafés + riverside restaurants throughout Old Town
🌟 Easy train access from Interlaken, Bern, or Lucerne.
🌟Visit in the morning before any tour groups arrive
🌟Walk both sides of the river for different views
Thanks 📷 @janandgreg_ for the great tips
Sun’s out, backpackers are out! 🕶️☀️ Summer is finally here, and we’re ready for all the chaotic group dinners, mountain adventures, and unforgettable nights ahead.
If you haven`t booked your bed at Balmers yet... what are you waiting for? The Swiss Alps are calling! 🏔️📢
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
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Picture by @lukas_gaffrey
If summer had a secret escape, it would probably look like Bachalpsee.
Turquoise water, alpine silence, and mountains reflecting like a mirror — the kind of place that makes you forget your phone for a minute and just exist✨
🎥 by @___denny85___
📍Grindelwald, Switzerland🇨🇭
🇨🇭 cant believe these emojis are real 🥹
💌Thanks @janandgreg_ for the funny video
PLACES IN THE JUNGFRAU REGION THAT ARE WORTH THE HYPE:
📍Brienz
📍Thun
📍Harder Kulm
📍Grindelwald
📍Lauterbrunnen
📍Gimmelwald
💌 share and save this for your future summer trip to switzerland!
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Dreams come true.... 🌞🇨🇭🪂
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" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @paraglidinginterlaken
Checking into a hostel is never just about getting a bed—it’s about who you share the room, the kitchen, and the stories with. 🌍✨ Thanks @travelerargentina for this picture.
From cooking chaotic group dinners to swapping hiking tips over a beer, hostel life is where strangers become lifelong friends in less than 24 hours. Here’s to the late-night chats, the early-morning mountain callings, and the global family you didn`t know you needed.
📍 Your Interlaken home base since day one. 🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
Went inside a waterfall today… that was pretty cool 🤷🏼
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" www.balmers.com/activities "
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📷 @lukeguinaldo
If you see the bright red sign, you’ve made it. 🇨🇭🛑
Welcome to Balmers. We’ve been greeting happy backpackers, mountain lovers, and professional afternoon-nappers right here in Interlaken for quite a while now. The sun is out, the mountains are waiting, and the reception team is ready to check you in. Standard Swiss summer day, really. ☀️🏔️
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Drop your bags, grab a map, and let’s get started. 🎒
" www.balmers.com "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @paliviaaroundtheworld
Finding that perfect daily balance. 🧘♂️🌊
A chilly evening dip, a warm sunset, and absolute quiet. Sometimes the best itinerary for a Swiss summer day is simply having no itinerary at all. Just you, the water, and the peaks. 🌲🌅
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Drop a 🌊 if this is your kind of evening.
" www.balmers.com/interlaken-lakes-waterfalls-activities "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Snail mail is very much alive and kicking at Balmers. ✉️❤️
There`s something quite special about reading these before starting a shift. Real notes from real people who arrived as strangers and left as part of the family. If you`re looking for a proper mountain escape with a brilliant crowd, you know where to find us. 🗺️🍻
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Link in bio to secure your spot for the season.
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
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📷 @paliviaaroundtheworld
Right foot blue, left hand yellow, and any remaining dignity out the window. 🎲👀
Just a standard evening at Balmers, breaking the ice the only way we know how: total, uncoordinated chaos. It turns out "left" and "right" get significantly harder to balance after a local beer. 🇨🇭🍻
Tag the person who always cheats at Twister. 👇
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Bye, Balmers Hostel👋👋 You’ll be missed 🥲
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🛋️ Above reception, you’ll find the Hammock Room, a comfy spot to hang out.
" www.balmers.com/get-to-know-balmers-hostel/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @paliviaaroundtheworld
Walking at the End of the World 👣🌍
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Book this activity here 👇️👇️👇️
" www.balmers.com/activity/via-ferrata/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
Save this Switzerland day itinerary 🇨🇭
Thank you for these tips @lachie_tarsh 🫶
Perfect if you’re based in Interlaken and want to see Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen in one day.
Morning: Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald
Departure: 7:30 am train from Interlaken Ost
Travel time: approx. 36 minutes
Arrival: around 8:00 am
Late Morning: Grindelwald First
Grindelwald First cable car.
Cable car time: approx. 25 minutes to the top
At the top, there’s a bunch of activities to do if you like, or take in the views.
Afternoon: Grindelwald → Lauterbrunnen
Catch the train from Grindelwald to Lauterbrunnen.
When you exit Lauterbrunnen train station:
Turn left to walk through town.
Turn right for the wide valley views, waterfalls, green fields, and photo spots.
Hire an e-bike to explore the valley on easy mode.
Finish with dinner in Lauterbrunnen before heading back to Interlaken.
Last trains are often around 9:30 pm, but always check the SBB app on the day for the most up-to-date train times and timetables.
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Sunset by the lake: the unofficial Balmers meeting point. 🌊🍻
There’s no better way to end the day than with your feet in the water and new friends by your side. Grab a drink, find a spot on the shore, and watch the sky put on a show. This is what the Swiss summer is all about! 🇨🇭🌅
Tag the person you’d share this sunset with! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/the-best-swimming-spots-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Enjoying an evening at Balmers. 🏔️ If you’re in Interlaken, grab a drink and join us in the garden. The fire is warm, and the vibes are even better! 🍻✌️
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Not the first activity that comes to mind in spring, but probably the most exciting one at this time of year! Imagine having the canyon all to yourself and your friend - smaller groups, less waiting, more action. No gear, no experience, no equipment, and no transportation needed - everything is provided. All you have to do is meet us in Interlaken and bring a towel.
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" www.balmers.com/activity/canyoning/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
More than just a place to crash. 🛌💤
Whether you love the energy of a shared dorm or the quiet charm of our wooden private rooms, we’ve designed every corner to make you feel right at home. Authentic Swiss chalet vibes included! 🇨🇭🪵
Rest up, recharge, and get ready for tomorrow’s mountain adventure. Your bed is waiting!
" www.balmers.com/hostel " to explore all our room types and book your stay! 📲🏔️
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Mirror-calm water and the glow of the Swiss Alps. 🏔️✨
There is no better way to experience Lake Brienz than from a kayak. We’ve teamed up with the legends at @hightidekayak to get you out on the turquoise water for the ultimate sunset session. It’s peaceful, it’s magical, and it’s a perspective of Interlaken you’ll never forget. 🛶🌅
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" www.balmers.com/activity/kayak/ "
Book your spot on the water! 🌊
🔗 More info in our link in bio
POV: You just experienced the ultimate Balmers night. 🍖🎸✨
From the first sizzle on the BBQ to the last chord on the guitar, there’s a reason people never want to leave our garden. Good food, legendary people, and that specific Interlaken magic that turns a group of travelers into a family.
Whether you`re here for the games, the tunes, or the burgers, there’s always a seat at the table for you! 🍻🌍
Drop a “🙌” if you want to be here right now!
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
You have to add Switzerland to your bucket list if you haven’t already 🏔️ Thanks @lachie_tarsh for sharing this bucket list.
We spent 7 days here and got a really good spread of all the different types of places.
📍 Zurich
📍 Interlaken
📍 Grindelwald
📍 Lauterbrunnen
📍 Gimmelwald
📍 Murren
📍 Zermatt
📍Kleine Scheidegg
📍Jungfrau
" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Welcome to Lauterbrunnen — where water writes the soundtrack of the Alps🇨🇭
In this hidden Swiss valley, summer doesn’t just look beautiful… it sounds magical. Rivers whisper through the landscape, waterfalls fall like slow-motion poetry, and every corner feels alive with nature’s rhythm.
🎧 Turn up the volume. Let the water take you there.
📍Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/hiking-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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🎥 @___denny85___
Flying over the Swiss Alps on the Grindelwald First Glider was one of the most thrilling adventures of my trip to Switzerland. The ride gives you panoramic views of the Jungfrau region, snow-capped mountains, and lush alpine valleys. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and scenery. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Grindelwald, this experience should be at the top of your Switzerland bucket list.
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @dian_the_explorer
