state guide

The best waterfalls in Bern

A hand-picked guide to 4 of the most stunning waterfalls in Bern. Each entry below has our personal notes, photos, driving directions and the practical detail you need to plan a visit — from parking and hike lengths to swimming rules and the best time of year to go.

#1 · 200 m drop

Trummelbach Falls

Lauterbrunnen · Bern · Switzerland

Trummelbach Falls — heroTrummelbach Falls — photo 2

Trümmelbach Falls is the largest underground waterfall in Europe and the world's only glacier-fed waterfall located inside a mountain. These falls carry meltwater from the glaciers of the Jungfrau region down into the valley below, with an incredible flow rate of up to 20,000 liters per second.

Every year, the rushing water transports more than 20,000 tons of rocks and gravel, causing vibrations throughout the mountain and producing a thunderous roar. The power and uniqueness of this natural wonder make it well worth a visit.

#2 · 297 m drop

Staubbach Falls

Lauterbrunnen · Bern · Switzerland

Staubbach Falls — hero

Swiss villages are generally small, and you can cover the highlights in about an hour on foot. The iconic centerpiece is the Staubbach Falls Viewpoint—a famous photo spot that attracts plenty of visitors. If you have extra time, walk toward Stechelberg; the scenery along the way is absolutely stunning.

One experience you shouldn’t miss is the scenic trail beside the waterfall. Climb for about 30 minutes along the path to reach a viewing platform behind the falls. From there, you can look out over the entire village through the cascading water—a completely different and unforgettable perspective. We spent about an hour strolling and taking photos, and it truly felt like stepping into an elven village from The Lord of the Rings.

Staubbach Falls plunges vertically from the cliff and is the most iconic sight in the valley.

#3 · 500 m drop

Giessbach Falls

Brienzersee · Bern · Switzerland

Giessbach Falls — heroGiessbach Falls — photo 2

Giessbach Waterfalls Switzerland Attraction

This attraction is really beautiful. There is also a hotel inside the attraction, and next time I come I definitely want to stay one night.

The waterfall is beautiful from every angle. You can drive in, but after arriving you need to scan a QR code to purchase a ticket, then log in to the website to buy it. Remember to use a phone number that can receive SMS messages. My card could not receive the SMS this time, so I used my family member’s credit card instead. Soon after, cars started lining up, so the whole process needs to be done quickly.

#4 · 250 m drop

Reichenbach Falls

Meiringen · Bern · Switzerland

Reichenbach Falls — heroReichenbach Falls — photo 2

A Swiss pilgrimage site for Sherlock Holmes fans!

As a huge Sherlock Holmes fan, I had always wanted to visit the iconic final scene created by Arthur Conan Doyle — the place where the legendary confrontation between Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty took place, and where both supposedly fell to their deaths at Reichenbach Falls.

Reichenbach Falls is located in the small Swiss town of Meiringen. Thanks to Sherlock Holmes fans from all over the world visiting this place, the town has become known as the “Sherlock Holmes town”.

Waterfall canyon
Safety first

Stay safe at every waterfall

Wet rocks, hidden currents and fast-changing weather catch out experienced hikers every year. Read our quick safety guide before you head out.

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