Kanton Luzern, as seen from Kanton Bern

Beautiful Brienzersee, Brienz town and blissful Göschner Alps in the background (yes, that’s a Riga ambulance in service)

The climb might be tough and challenging, but the view is worth it    – Victoria Arlen

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It’s about 3 PM, 32 degrees and I’ve been hiking for about 5 hours on steep slopes. Completely soaked hiking gear and drops rolling down the temples are reminding me the need for a break. The difficulty is evident from two Riga helicopter ambulance pickups I witnessed on the way. But hey, that’s part of the package.
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Since I started from Interlaken, I have no idea how time flew. The tiny restaurants on the edges of mountain slopes, parents and kids soaking the weekend sun, foreigners trying to read the maps, highs and lows of terrain, constant chirping of birds from a distance, random butterflies boasting their colors, stopovers of senior hikers from time to time…. and my new DJI Osmo. I think I know why I didn’t realize time 🙂
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Despite the difficult terrain, this hike does reward stunning views. The gorgeous towns of Interlaken and Brienz, endless mountain ranges on all sides, mild breeze… what a day to be on the mountains. Not just people above ground, but algae in Brienzersee (lake Brienzer) also seem to enjoy the season. The water is Turquoise – largely due to the thriving summer algae. There’s more in waiting. Going ahead the largely single lane steep hike, you’ll enjoy the small farms, cows, music of the winds and other secrets of nature.

If you are flexible, take your sleeping bag. The moments sun starts to rise over the Göschener Alps is just stunning.

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Difficulty: Medium-High
Duration: 6-10 hours
Total length: Ca. 27-35 Kms
Best time: Days with clear skies or low clowds
Route 1: Interlaken -> Augstmatthorn -> Lombach -> Habkern -> Interlaken
Route 2: Interlaken -> Augstmatthorn -> Schwanderbärgli -> Brienz