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
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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
Cold night, warm fire, better company. ❄️🔥👯♂️
This is what Balmer’s is all about. The fireplace is roaring, the games are on, and the house is full of legends from every corner of the globe.
You’re only one booking away from the best night of your trip. Come for the mountains, stay for the people. 🏔️🏠
See you at the fire.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
📅 7-DAY ITINERARY👇
Day 1 — Schäfler & Seealpsee 🥾
Near Appenzell, the hike to Schäfler is moderate-to-strenuous (4–5 hrs round trip, exposed ridgeline). Take the Wasserauen cable car up to save time and loop past Seealpsee lake on the way down.
Day 2 — Arrive Interlaken 🏨
Base yourself here for the next 4 days—perfect hub for the Bernese Oberland.
Day 3 — Lauterbrunnen + Mürren Via Ferrata 🧗
Take the cable car up to the car-free village of Mürren. The via ferrata (Klettersteig) here is rated C/D (moderate-difficult) with fixed steel cables along exposed cliffs. Rent your helmet and harness locally.
Day 4 — Wengen + Jungfraujoch 🏔️
Start in Wengen, then take the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe at 3,454m. Go early to beat tour groups and consider stopping in Grindelwald on your way back.
Day 5 — Iseltwald + Grindelwald First + Harder Kulm🌅
Morning at Iseltwald on Lake Brienz, then head to Grindelwald. Take the gondola up to First for the Cliff Walk (easy), Bachalpsee lake hike (easy, 1.5 hrs), or the First Flyer zip line. End the evening at Harder Kulm for sunset over both lakes.
Day 6 — Oeschinen Lake + Zermatt 🥾
Head to Kandersteg and take the gondola up to hike the ridge trail to Oeschinensee, an impossibly blue glacial lake (moderate, 3–4 hrs round trip). Then train to Zermatt via Brig for your first look at the Matterhorn.
Day 7 — Zermatt 🏔️
Train up to Gornergrat or hike the Five Lakes Walk (easy-moderate, ~10 km) with Matterhorn reflections at every lake.
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Your First Trip to Switzerland: Discover Interlaken Like a Pro
" www.balmers.com/your-first-trip-to-switzerland-discover-interlaken-like-a-pro/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @mark_burstein
Just when we thought we were trading our beanies for t-shirts... Interlaken decides to pull a magic trick. 🎩❄️
The late March snow has officially turned the garden into a winter wonderland again. There’s something properly hypnotic about watching the flakes fall while the mountains disappear into the mist. It’s quiet, it’s crisp, and it’s arguably the most magical the hostel has looked all year.
Grab a hot chocolate (or a local brew), find a corner in the common room, and let’s enjoy the "second winter" while it lasts. Who’s joining us by the fire tonight? 🔥🏔️
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" www.balmers.com/winter "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Spiciest lake tours in town 🔥
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Book this tour here:
" www.balmers.com/activity/jet-boat-winter/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
Grindelwald – The Alpine Village 🇨🇭🏔
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Grindelwald is one of the most iconic mountain villages in Switzerland. Surrounded by dramatic peaks like the legendary Eiger, this destination offers breathtaking landscapes in every direction.
From cable cars and hiking trails to unforgettable alpine views, Grindelwald is the perfect place to experience the beauty of the Jungfrau Region.
Discover one of the most spectacular villages in the Swiss Alps.
📍 Grindelwald
🏔 Jungfrau Region
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" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Discover the Swiss Alps with @Interlaken360 Experience
🇨🇭Switzerland ✨
Here are some of the locations featured:
• Grindelwald
• Lucerne
• Gstaad
• Bürgenstock
• Brienz
• Oeschinensee
PS. 15 seconds are not enough to feature all the beautiful spots in Switzerland 🫶🏼
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" www.balmers.com/your-first-trip-to-switzerland-discover-interlaken-like-a-pro/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @harrysding
Spring flying doesn’t get better than this 🪂🌸
Blue skies, snow-capped Alps, and Lake Thun shining like a mirror below ✨
Just another perfect day flying above Interlaken 🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding-summer/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📸 captured by @Pädu B for @paraglidinginterlaken
Balmers Hostel Social activities:
We’ve got something social happening almost every evening. From proper competitive Beer Pong and pub quizzes to legendary Karaoke nights at the club, there’s always a chance to get involved and meet a few brilliant characters. Cheers to new adventures. 🎤🔥
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" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
There’s a certain kind of magic at Oeschinensee this time of year. It’s quiet, a bit brooding, and utterly incredible. 🏔️❄️
While the summer crowds are still months away, the lake feels like a well-kept secret. Watching the turquoise water begin to break through the winter ice is a proper sight to behold. It’s raw, it’s wild, and it’s exactly why we love Interlaken.
Fancy a misty trek to see it for yourself? Grab a mate from the common room and head up before the clouds roll in.
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" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📍 Oeschinensee 🇨🇭
📷 @spiran_sid
More than just a bed.
We’ve got comfy bunks, individual reading lights, and great common areas. Get ready for a relaxing stay at Balmer’s Hostel!
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Are you ready ?? 😲
First trip going out from Interlaken on 11.04 🤩
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" www.balmers.com/activity/bungy-jumping/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
This town in Switzerland has 72 waterfalls🤯
Welcome to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland 🇨🇭
A village of about 2,500 people sitting at the bottom of one of the most dramatic valleys in the Alps. Sheer 300-meter cliffs on both sides, 72 waterfalls, and a backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It’s genuinely one of most memorable places I’ve been too🙌
🚆 Getting there
Train is the best way to reach Lauterbrunnen. Switzerland’s rail network connects directly to the village, and the Swiss Travel Pass covers trains, buses, and cable cars in the area
🥾 What to do
Hike the Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg ridge for straight-on views of the Eiger north face. Take the cogwheel train up to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454m. Walk to Trümmelbach Falls, a series of glacial waterfalls carved inside the mountain itself. And walk through the valley. The waterfalls spill off the cliffs above you at almost every turn
📅 Best time
May through October. The falls are fullest in late spring (June) when snowmelt is heavy
Have you been to Switzerland?🤔
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 Repost from @mark_burstein
@whereisjanee_ just casually rode a train that looks like it’s climbing straight into a dream 😭🚂 Tag someone you’d take this unreal mountain ride with!
📌 What to know before you go:
• The Brienz Rothorn Railway is Switzerland’s only daily steam-powered cogwheel railway still running in regular service
• The ride takes about 1 hour from the lakeside village of Brienz up to the 2,350 m summit of Rothorn
• Sit on the right side when going up for the best views of turquoise Lake Brienz and the Bernese Alps
• Summer to early autumn (usually June–October) is the operating season, since snow closes the line in winter
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" www.balmers.com/best-panoramic-train-in-switzerland/ "
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🔗 More info in our link in bio
📍Brienz Rothorn Railway, Brienz, Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
📷 @dreaming_travel
@three_curious_explorer is taking us through 5 of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland you need on your bucket list!🤩✨
🏞️ Lauterbrunnen – Valley of waterfalls surrounded by cliffs.
⛰️ Mürren – Car-free alpine village with epic mountain views.
🌊 Brienz – Lakeside beauty known for turquoise waters & woodcarving.
🚤 Iseltwald – Peaceful gem on Lake Brienz, perfect for boat rides.
🌿 Gimmelwald – Quiet, untouched village with authentic alpine charm.
Which one would you explore first?🇨🇭🏔️🐮
📍Switzerland
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" www.balmers.com/best-alpine-villages-around-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @dreaming_travel
Nothing beats the Swiss chill like a roaring fire and good company. 🔥 Whether you’re swapping summit stories or just soaking in the Interlaken stars, the best memories are made right here. Who’s joining the circle tonight? 🇨🇭✨
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" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
What better place to taste the world-famous Swiss chocolate than in the heart of the Alps, on the deepest lake in Switzerland? 😍
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Book this activity here:
" www.balmers.com/activity/chocolate-fondue-float-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
They say you come to Balmers for the mountains, but you stay for the people. ❤️ Another night of making memories (and losing at cards) in the cozy den. Tag your travel squad! 👇
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" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Ready for some winter fun in the Swiss Alps? No skills or intense workouts required! Enjoy the thrill and embrace the ultimate snowy adventure. ❄️🏔️
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" www.balmers.com/activity/day-sledding/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
Hidden inside the mountains above Lake Thun lies one of the most incredible cave systems in Switzerland.
The St. Beatus Caves near Interlaken stretch deep inside the mountain with underground rivers, waterfalls, and ancient rock formations.
A place that truly feels unreal.
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" www.balmers.com/top-gorges-and-caves-to-explore-near-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @amine.explorer .
Winter Wonderland In Switzerland 🏔️🇨🇭
Who would you bring with you in Switzerland during winter time @ your travel Friends you’d like to explore 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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📷 @wonderful_swiss
The colour of the Aare River never quite looks real.
Flowing through Interlaken with that unmistakable turquoise, it’s the kind of place you end up wandering past without much of a plan, just following the water, the mountains in the background, and the occasional stop to take it all in.
One of those quiet little spots that reminds you why travelling in Switzerland is rather special.
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" www.balmers.com/river-floating-the-ultimate-summer-adventure-guide/
🔗 More info in our link in bio "
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📷 @creator_in_switzerland
My Hostel in Interlaken:
Mountains by day, good people by night.
A few days turned into a week.
One adventure led to another: skiing, skydiving, wandering through valleys that don’t quite look real.
Some places you visit.
Some places feel like a little chapter of your trip.
Interlaken just has that effect.
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-interlaken-travel-guide-best-itineraries-things-to-do-hidden-gems/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @brenportfolio
Interlaken was hands down one of the most beautiful places I’ve been! We explored, we ate, we jumped out of planes, we consumed lots of chocolate & fondue!!! Bigggg shoutout to Eric, my Skydive buddy, the man who drove our horse & buggy, The Balmers, every breakfast spot we tried, and my best friends for such a great weekend!!!! We WILL be back for another retreat!!!
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @romeinwithcate
Good people. Good stories.
At Balmers Hostel, the mountains might bring you here, but the atmosphere tends to make you stay.
Evenings in the garden, a pint or two at the bar, travellers swapping stories from the day’s adventures. Someone starts a game of foosball, someone else suggests a movie, and before you know it, the whole place feels like a very international living room.
Comfortable, lively, and just the right amount of chaos.
Book a bed. The rest tends to happen naturally.
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" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
