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 8 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
Our Swiss hostel at Balmers Hostel ❤️
One day, we had fun at the club in the hostel, another day, we drank beer all night with new people, it was a fulfilling and happy hostel life😇
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @so_tographer
Believe it or not, the water we raft on every day comes straight from the glaciers; it melted just a few hours ago. That’s what makes the Lütschine so wild, refreshing, and fun.
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Book this activity here:
" www.balmers.com/activity/rafting/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
The Augstmatthorn hike is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. ❤️ This ridge walk offers stunning views over Lake Brienz and the surrounding Alps.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
⏱️ Hike duration: 3 hours
🥾 Distance: 6.3 km
⬆️ Elevation: 576 meters
💪🏼 Difficulty: Easy
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DISCOVER THE AUGSTMATTHORN SUMMIT
Augstamatthorn is one of the best hikes you will ever do near Interlaken.
" www.balmers.com/augstmatthorn-hike/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @themanduls
Skydiving in the Swiss Alps is a must for your bucket list! ⭐
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" www.balmers.com/activity/sky-diving/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
GIESSBACH FALLS HIKE: A HALF-DAY ADVENTURE FROM ISELTWALD
Looking for a relaxed, scenic hike near Interlaken? The Giessbach Falls trail is a great choice. Just a 20-minute bus ride from Interlaken Ost, you’ll arrive in Iseltwald, a charming Swiss village nestled on the shore of Lake Brienz. This easy trail follows the shoreline to the stunning Giessbach Falls- perfect for anyone craving a laid-back adventure.
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" www.balmers.com/hike-to-giessbach-falls/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🚗💨 Say hello to our vintage Balmers car, an iconic piece of hostel history! Parked out front and full of stories, it’s the perfect selfie spot and a symbol of all the epic adventures that start here.
📸 Snap a pic with it and tag us, we might just feature you!
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
One for the bucket list in Switzerland, the views are breathtaking! There is some phenomenal hiking in the Jungfrau region; this has to be one of the prettiest parts of the country!
PS. The Cliff Walk is free, but the gondola up isn’t.
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" www.balmers.com/5-must-do-hikes-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @calsnape
🎲🌟 Cozy vibes & competitive spirits! Our covered terrace is where the magic happens — from game nights to trivia battles, it’s all laughs, cheers, and good company. A super cute space to chill, play, and maybe win a round or two 😉
👇 Tell us your go-to trivia topic or favorite board game!
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" www.balmers.com/activities/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Splash into the crystal-clear Aare River in Bern, where the water is refreshing, the views are breathtaking, and summer feels endless.☀️⛱️
✨ Save this for your next Swiss adventure by the river!
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River Floating Interlaken: le guide ultime des aventures estivales
" www.balmers.com/fr/river-floating-the-ultimate-summer-adventure-guide/
🔗 More info in our link in bio "
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Repost from @ instasuiza @switzerland.explores
Via Ferrata Around Interlaken – An Adventure Seeker’s Guide
Are you an adventure seeker? Is hiking not thrilling enough for you? If you dream of being high up in the mountains, navigating narrow ledges, and taking in epic views, then via Ferrata (literally “iron paths”) in the Interlaken region might be your thing!
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" www.balmers.com/via-ferrata-around-interlaken-complete-guide/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📸 @lazyset_up
❄️ Ancient ice, epic views. The glaciers near Interlaken aren’t just cool, they’re legendary. Hike up, breathe in that crisp alpine air, and witness nature in slow motion.
Pro tip: bring sunglasses, it glares.
👇 Have you ever seen a glacier up close? Tell us where, or tag someone who needs to!
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" www.balmers.com/explore-the-best-mountains-around-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @stelladefrain
🐮 You’ll hear them before you see them — Swiss cows with their iconic bells, living their best alpine life just a yodel away from Balmers.
Yes, they’re cute. Yes, they might be judging your hiking shoes.
👇 Ever met a cow on a trail? Drop your funniest cow-encounter story in the comments!
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @stelladefrain
Why go to an amusement park when you can go canyoning in the Swiss Alps ⛰️💦
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" www.balmers.com/fr/activity/canyoning/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @outdoorinterlaken
🛏️ Sleep, chill, repeat! Our dorms are made for backpackers who don’t just need a bed — they need a vibe.
Lockers? ✅ Showers? ✅ New friends? Definitely.
Whether you`re snoring or storytelling, this is the place.
👇 Tag your roomie or tell us your ultimate dorm survival tip in the comments.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
📍Habkern - Augstmatthorn - Harder Kulm
🥾 27000 Steps
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Augstamatthorn is one of the best hikes you will ever do near Interlaken.
" www.balmers.com/augstmatthorn-hike/ "
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Repost from @nastyaelagina
We all have that one friend ...
And they make the hike a whole lot more entertaining 😆
And just to be clear, we do love the aul hiking poles!
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" www.balmers.com/ultimate-guide-to-hiking-in-the-interlaken-region-trails-tips-scenic-routes/ "
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📷 @tinyboots_travels
🧠✨ Big brains. Bigger vibes.
Meet this week’s Trivia Night champs — they came, they guessed, they conquered… and yes, they now own a limited edition Balmers t-shirt 😎👕
Think you’ve got what it takes to dethrone them? Join us next round — same time, same chaos.
What’s your unbeatable trivia category? Drop it below 👇
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" www.balmers.com/adventure-hostel-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
What a place 🤯
📍 Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe), Switzerland 🇨🇭
🏔️ At 3,571 metres, on the Sphinx observation deck, you can enjoy the view of Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in Europe, and the surrounding 4,000+ metres high mountains, which give a spectacular panorama.
🧊 Jungfraujoch also has an ice palace carved in the Aletsch Glacier, which offers a frosty experience with handmade ice sculptures and the lifelike works of art made of ice.
🚂 Did you know that the railway station of Jungfraujoch at 3,454 metres is the highest one in Europe? And its rails are going inside the mountains of Eiger and Mönch.
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Explore the best mountains around Interlaken
" www.balmers.com/explore-the-best-mountains-around-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📽️ @tamas.pix
Some buildings feel like home before you even step inside 🏡✨
This one has welcomed travelers, dreamers, and mischief-makers since forever.
Whether you’re here for the mountains, the memories, or just a bed with good vibes — Balmers has your back.
Been here before? Drop a ❤️ if this place is in your travel story.
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" www.balmers.com/hostel "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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📷 @catdogfilmm
What to Do in One Day in Interlaken: The Perfect Itinerary
Short on time but big on adventure? Interlaken might be small, but it packs a serious punch. If you only have one day to explore this stunning region, don`t worry, we`ve put together the perfect itinerary to help you experience the best of what Interlaken has to offer.
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" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-in-one-day-in-interlaken-the-perfect-itinerary/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🎉 What happens after hostel check-in?
👉 Balmers Club happens.
Basement dance floor, wild theme nights, cheap drinks, and the kind of stories you’ll almost remember 😅🍻
From “I’m just going for one” to “why is it 4 am?”, it all goes down here.
What’s your most questionable Balmers Club memory? 👀👇
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" www.balmers.com/club-nights/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
☀️🧺 What do you get when you mix hungry backpackers, a lake, and zero plans?
A classic Balmers sunset picnic, obviously.
We met at 5:45, brought questionable snacks, too much hummus, and just the right amount of chaos. Some swam, some sipped, some forgot towels... no regrets.
Been to a Balmers Lake picnic? What did you forget to bring? 😅👇
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" www.balmers.com/social-activities-get-together/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
🚂💨 When your ride to the top is older than your grandma… but WAY more scenic 😂
The Brienz Rothorn Bahn is a steam-powered legend with epic views, coal smoke, and zero WiFi (you’ll survive, promise).
Who’s sitting next to the person who brought snacks? 🍫👀
Tag your mountain train crew below!👇
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" www.balmers.com/best-panoramic-train-in-switzerland/ "
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Repost from @aisyaadif
Spanning 1.4 km, this dramatic canyon is carved through 200-meter-high cliffs by the powerful Aare River, which has been shaping the landscape for over 10,000 years. The walk through the gorge is an easy and family-friendly experience, but don’t let that fool you—it’s anything but ordinary. The sound of rushing water, towering rock walls, and sheer beauty of this spot will leave you in awe.
It can get busy, so if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy the gorge in peace, aim for late afternoon or early morning visits. On a sunny day, the blue water of the river will leave you speechless.
How to Get There:
📍 Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht) is located near Meiringen in the Bernese Oberland, Swiss Alps. You can access it via two entrances (East and West), with the option to walk through or make a loop if you’re driving.
Entry:
💸 CHF 12 (No reservation required)
🕒 Opening Hours: April-November, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (longer in high season)
Nearby Attractions & Hikes You Can’t Miss:
📍 Reichenbach Falls - Just a short drive away, this waterfall is not only iconic for its dramatic drop but also for its connection to Sherlock Holmes.
📍 Gelmerbahn - Europe’s steepest open-air funicular takes you to a stunning lake with hiking trails around it.
📍 Trift Bridge Hike - One of the most exhilarating hikes in Switzerland—don’t miss it!
📍 Meiringen - This small town is famous for its meringues and Sherlock Holmes-themed attractions.
Add Aare Gorge to your list of must-see spots in the Swiss Alps. It’s a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and a touch of history.
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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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📷 @taniaparfe
Oh yeah, what a beautiful spot, right? 😊
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" https://www.balmers.com/spring/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
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Repost from @journeys_with_derwen
Some come for the mountains, some for the parties… but everyone ends up in the dining room talking about travel fails and weird hostel roommates 😂✈️
Tell us: what’s the funniest thing you’ve overheard in a hostel? 👀👇
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" www.balmers.com/adventure-hostel-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Where to go swimming in Interlaken
After a long day hiking in the Swiss Alps, there’s no better way to cool off than jumping into one of Interlaken’s crystal-clear lakes or rivers. Whether you’re looking for a quick dip, a full day of sunbathing, or some adventure, Interlaken has swimming spots for everyone. Summers here can get surprisingly warm, so pack your towel and sunscreen, and dive into these stunning natural pools surrounded by the Swiss Alps.
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" www.balmers.com/the-best-swimming-spots-in-interlaken/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
Some come for the mountains, some for the parties… but everyone ends up in the dining room talking about travel fails and weird hostel roommates 😂✈️
Tell us: what’s the funniest thing you’ve overheard in a hostel? 👀👇
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" www.balmers.com/hostel/ "
🔗 More info in our link in bio
