Balmers is home of an
authentic Swiss experience
Balmers is the first private hostel in Switzerland and truly is a home away from home for travellers from all over the world! With friendly and knowlegable staff, we continue to strive towards providing travellers everything they wish for in a hostel and more!
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General Information
Got questions? We've got answers.
Checkin: generally 4pm
Checkout: 10am
We provide free high speed wifi
Check out all services that are included at Balmers Hostel
Visa, Mastercard, Maestro cards and Paypal are accepted.
For directions, click how to get here, then scroll to Balmers Hostel
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.
You're one step away from an adventure of a lifetime
Check Availabilitydifferent rooms, for different travel styles
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Join the love of our great travel community
Get Social at #balmershostel
Welcome to the Streetfood Festival Original Tour 2026!
Switzerland tastes the world
As a free event, we will be hosting 19 festivals in 17 cities across Switzerland.
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" wwww.streetfood-festivals.ch/interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
✨🇨🇭 You’re going to have a beautiful adventure here!
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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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📷 @switzerlanderss
Spectacular Switzerland🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Video from @shintarogram.f
Looking for the ultimate basecamp in Interlaken? Here is why Balmers Hostel belongs on your bucket list: 👇
Deep Roots: Running since 1907, it’s one of Switzerland’s oldest privately owned hostels—and it’s still proudly run by the Balmer family today. 🏔️
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. 🇨🇭
Cook & Connect: Their massive, fully equipped communal kitchen is the ultimate hub for prepping dinner and making new friends from around the world. 🍳
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 – 10 PM. 💤
More than just a place to sleep, it’s a proper travel community. Have you stayed here yet? 🎒
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🔗 " www.balmers.com/about-us/ "
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Video made by @asselarmankyzy
Found the best seat in Brienz🇨🇭💯
Sometimes the best activity on the itinerary is simply sitting still. 🗺️🧘♂️
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. ✨🛶
Link in bio to book your Swiss summer escape.
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "
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📷 @travelwithjuri
Hello everyone!
We stayed at the famous Balmers Hostel in Interlaken, Switzerland.
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.
Balmers consists of several traditional Swiss chalet-style buildings. Between them, you’ll 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.
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. It’s also a place where people from different parts of the world meet, exchange experiences, and make new friends.
The place that impressed me the most was the hammock room. Unfortunately, I didn’t manage to capture it on video, so I’ll share a photo instead. It’s 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.
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.
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" www.balmers.com "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Video made by @asselarmankyzy
Not a bad way to spend a Tuesday, all things considered. 🛶☀️
If you’re 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 around—just proper alpine peace (and a decent workout for your arms, if we`re being honest). 🏔️✨
Pop by reception to book a kayak slot before they’re all gone. 🎒
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" www.balmers.com/activity/kayak/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Jetboat ride near Interlaken
Location: Bönigen
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 — dress accordingly.
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" www.balmers.com/activity/jet-boat-interlaken/ "
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
5 hikes you can’t miss in Switzerland by @talesofthemap
🇨🇭🏔️ Save this for your trip:
1. North Face Trail, Mürren: 6.5 km · ~2 hrs · moderate. Epic views of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau.
2. Bachalpsee Lake, Grindelwald: 6 km · ~2 hrs · easy. One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Alps.
3. Stoos Ridge, Stoos: 6.2 km · ~3 hrs · moderate. Panoramic views the entire way.
4. Matterhorn Glacier Trail, Zermatt: 6.6 km · ~2.5 hrs · easy-moderate. The Matterhorn is right in front of you the whole time.
5. Five Lakes, Zermatt: 9.8 km · ~3 hrs · moderate. The Matterhorn reflected in 3 of the 5 lakes.
Which one is on your list? 👇
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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
Just thought I’d share. 31 yrs ago, I stayed with you, and now this week, my daughter is staying with you 💖
Don`t hesitate to share your stories about Balmers with us.
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" www.balmers.com/get-to-know-balmers-hostel/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Picture from @lidia_myers
June in Lauterbrunnen 🇨🇭
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-lauterbrunnen/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Video made by @explorewithsimone
Interlaken is about to get louder.
Greenfield Festival 2026
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" www.balmers.com/greenfield-festival-2026/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
📍Interlaken, Switzerland🇨🇭 from @travelsruben
The town is built between two turquoise lakes 🏞️
Situated in the heart of the Alps, Interlaken offers a unique setting in the world, with dozens of paragliders coloring the sky every day 🪂
The spot not to miss: take the funicular to go up to Harder Kulm. The view up there is simply spectacular 🚠✨
Share this Reel with the person you want to go here with!
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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
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
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
