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
Book through us directly to ensure the best rates and up to date availability.
Find Great Activities Check AvailabilityFind out why, we have
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, weβve 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. Weβre a very human bunch, and we love connecting in real ways. Weβd 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 whatβs 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 itβs 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 somethingβs not right during your stay. Weβd much rather try to fix things in real time than read about them later when itβs 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 βgood, best, amazingβ 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 stayβand everyone else’sβas awesome as possible, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Be Cool:
-
Respect others and their belongings.
- Keep it quiet after 10 PMβsome legends like to sleep.
-
Check-out is by 10 AM. Please bring your sheets, duvet cover, and pillowcase to reception (no need to bring duvets or pillows).
-
Return anything you borrowedβlike room keys or adapters.
-
Lights and fans off when you leave the room, please!
A Few No-Gos:
-
No smoking indoorsβeven with the window open.
-
No cooking outside the guest kitchen.
-
Donβt leave windows wide open with the heating on.
-
And above all: donβt be disrespectful.
Thanks for being the absolute best! Weβre glad youβre here. π§‘
What is Balmers Hostel?
Balmers Hostel is Switzerlandβs oldest privately owned hostel, set in three charming Swiss chalets surrounded by mountain peaks waiting to be explored. Itβs 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
Welcome to the Streetfood Festival Original Tour 2026!β
Switzerland tastes the worldβ
As a free event, we will be hosting 19 festivals in 17 cities across Switzerland.β
.β
" wwww.streetfood-festivals.ch/interlaken/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
β¨π¨π Youβre going to have a beautiful adventure here! β
.β
" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
π· @switzerlanderss
Spectacular Switzerlandπ¨πβ
.β
" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
Video from @shintarogram.f
Looking for the ultimate basecamp in Interlaken? Here is why Balmers Hostel belongs on your bucket list: πβ
β
Deep Roots: Running since 1907, itβs one of Switzerlandβs oldest privately owned hostelsβand itβs still proudly run by the Balmer family today. ποΈβ
β
The Vibe: Forget boring corridors. Balmers is a collection of traditional Swiss chalets centered around a lively courtyard, sunny terraces, and communal tables made for meeting people. π¨πβ
β
Cook & Connect: Their massive, fully equipped communal kitchen is the ultimate hub for prepping dinner and making new friends from around the world. π³β
β
The Hidden Gem: The indoor hammock room is the perfect sanctuary to read or escape the crowd. (Missed it on video, so enjoy the photo instead!). Open daily 8 AM β 10 PM. π€β
β
More than just a place to sleep, itβs a proper travel community. Have you stayed here yet? πβ
.β
π " www.balmers.com/about-us/ "β
.β
Video made by @asselarmankyzyβ
β
Found the best seat in Brienzπ¨ππ― β
Sometimes the best activity on the itinerary is simply sitting still. πΊοΈπ§ββοΈβ
β
After a week of hiking, paragliding, and hostel parties, this quiet little corner of Brienz is exactly what the doctor ordered. Just you, a wooden bench, and a view that makes you realise why you packed your bags in the first place. Absolute peace. β¨πΆβ
β
Link in bio to book your Swiss summer escape.β
.β
" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "β
.β
π· @travelwithjuri
Hello everyone!β
β
We stayed at the famous Balmers Hostel in Interlaken, Switzerland.β
β
The history of this place dates back to 1907, when a married couple, Frieda and Adolf Balmer, opened a small guesthouse for travelers. Over the years, it became a favorite destination for visitors from all over the world and is now considered one of the oldest and most famous privately owned hostels in Switzerland. More than a century later, the hostel is still managed by the Balmer family.β
β
Balmers consists of several traditional Swiss chalet-style buildings. Between them, youβll find a cozy courtyard, green gardens, and relaxing outdoor spaces. There are long communal tables, terraces, and plenty of places where travelers can meet, share stories, and connect with one another. Because of this, Balmers feels less like a typical hostel and more like a small international community.β
β
Another highlight of the hostel is its large communal kitchen, where guests can prepare their own meals. The kitchen is fully equipped with stoves, cookware, refrigerators, and everything needed for cooking. Itβs also a place where people from different parts of the world meet, exchange experiences, and make new friends.β
β
The place that impressed me the most was the hammock room. Unfortunately, I didnβt manage to capture it on video, so Iβll share a photo instead. Itβs a small and cozy relaxation space inside the hostel where guests can read, unwind, or simply enjoy some quiet time. The room is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.β
β
Thanks to its unique atmosphere, rich history, and welcoming environment that brings people together, Balmers Hostel continues to hold a special place in the hearts of travelers from around the world.β
.β
" www.balmers.com "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
Video made by @asselarmankyzy
Not a bad way to spend a Tuesday, all things considered. πΆβοΈβ
β
If youβre looking to escape the heat, the middle of Lake Brienz is about as good as it gets. Glacial turquoise water, massive cliffs, and just the sound of your paddle. No high-speed engines, no rushing aroundβjust proper alpine peace (and a decent workout for your arms, if we`re being honest). ποΈβ¨β
β
Pop by reception to book a kayak slot before theyβre all gone. πβ
.β
" www.balmers.com/activity/kayak/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
Jetboat ride near Interlaken
Location: BΓΆnigen
Getting there: Bus 102/103 or nearby parking
Duration: Around 1 hour total
Minimum height: 110 cm
Maximum weight: 150 kg
No personal cameras allowed
Expect speed, water splashes, and a lot of fun β dress accordingly.
.
" www.balmers.com/activity/jet-boat-interlaken/ "
.
π· @outdoorinterlaken
5 hikes you canβt miss in Switzerland by @talesofthemapβ
π¨πποΈ Save this for your trip:β
β
1. North Face Trail, MΓΌrren: 6.5 km Β· ~2 hrs Β· moderate. Epic views of the Eiger, MΓΆnch & Jungfrau.β
β
2. Bachalpsee Lake, Grindelwald: 6 km Β· ~2 hrs Β· easy. One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Alps.β
β
3. Stoos Ridge, Stoos: 6.2 km Β· ~3 hrs Β· moderate. Panoramic views the entire way.β
β
4. Matterhorn Glacier Trail, Zermatt: 6.6 km Β· ~2.5 hrs Β· easy-moderate. The Matterhorn is right in front of you the whole time.β
β
5. Five Lakes, Zermatt: 9.8 km Β· ~3 hrs Β· moderate. The Matterhorn reflected in 3 of the 5 lakes.β
β
Which one is on your list? π β
.β
" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
Just thought Iβd share. 31 yrs ago, I stayed with you, and now this week, my daughter is staying with you πβ
Don`t hesitate to share your stories about Balmers with us.β
.β
" www.balmers.com/get-to-know-balmers-hostel/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
Picture from @lidia_myers
June in Lauterbrunnen π¨πβ
.β
" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-lauterbrunnen/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
Video made by @explorewithsimone
Interlaken is about to get louder.β
Greenfield Festival 2026β
.β
" www.balmers.com/greenfield-festival-2026/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
πInterlaken, Switzerlandπ¨π from @travelsrubenβ
The town is built between two turquoise lakes ποΈβ
β
Situated in the heart of the Alps, Interlaken offers a unique setting in the world, with dozens of paragliders coloring the sky every day πͺβ
β
The spot not to miss: take the funicular to go up to Harder Kulm. The view up there is simply spectacular π β¨β
β
Share this Reel with the person you want to go here with!β
.β
" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
Home is where the hostel kitchen is. β€οΈ
One of our favorite parts of summer at Balmers is watching the communal kitchen come alive in the evenings. Tonight, weβre swapping out standard backpacker pasta for a true Swiss masterpiece: homemade fondue! π«β¨
π Ready to join the family? Book your bed via the link in our bio!
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
.
π #BalmersHostel #MyInterlaken #TravelCommunity #BackpackingSwitzerland #HostelWorld #SwissCulture
Sunβs out, backpackers are out! πΆοΈβοΈ Summer is finally here, and weβre 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! ποΈπ’
.
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
.
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 β the kind of place that makes you forget your phone for a minute and just existβ¨
π₯ by @___denny85___
πGrindelwald, Switzerlandπ¨π
π¨π cant believe these emojis are real π₯Ήβ
β
πThanks @janandgreg_ for the funny videoβ
β
PLACES IN THE JUNGFRAU REGION THAT ARE WORTH THE HYPE:β
β
πBrienzβ
πThunβ
πHarder Kulmβ
πGrindelwaldβ
πLauterbrunnenβ
πGimmelwaldβ
β
π share and save this for your future summer trip to switzerland!β
.β
" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
Dreams come true.... ππ¨ππͺβ
.β
" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
π· @paraglidinginterlaken
Checking into a hostel is never just about getting a bedβitβs about who you share the room, the kitchen, and the stories with. πβ¨ 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. Hereβs to the late-night chats, the early-morning mountain callings, and the global family you didn`t know you needed.
π Your Interlaken home base since day one. π¨π
.
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
Went inside a waterfall todayβ¦ that was pretty cool π€·πΌ
.
" www.balmers.com/activities "
.
π· @lukeguinaldo
If you see the bright red sign, youβve made it. π¨ππβ
β
Welcome to Balmers. Weβve 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. βοΈποΈβ
.β
Drop your bags, grab a map, and letβs get started. πβ
" www.balmers.com "β
π More info in our link in bioβ
.β
π· @paliviaaroundtheworld
Finding that perfect daily balance. π§ββοΈπβ
β
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. π²π
β
.β
Drop a π if this is your kind of evening.β
" www.balmers.com/interlaken-lakes-waterfalls-activities "β
π More info in our link in bio
Snail mail is very much alive and kicking at Balmers. βοΈβ€οΈβ
β
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. πΊοΈπ»β
.β
Link in bio to secure your spot for the season. β
" www.balmers.com/hostel "β
.β
π· @paliviaaroundtheworld
Right foot blue, left hand yellow, and any remaining dignity out the window. π²πβ
β
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. π¨ππ»β
β
Tag the person who always cheats at Twister. πβ
.β
" www.balmers.com/social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "β
π More info in our link in bio
