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
Book through us directly to ensure the best rates and up to date availability.
Find Great Activities Check AvailabilityFind out why, we have
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, weโve 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. Weโre a very human bunch, and we love connecting in real ways.Weโd 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 whatโs 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 itโs 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 somethingโs not right during your stay. Weโd much rather try to fix things in real time than read about them later when itโs 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 โgood, best, amazingโ 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 stayโand everyone else’sโas awesome as possible, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Be Cool:
-
Respect others and their belongings.
- Keep it quiet after 10 PMโsome legends like to sleep.
-
Check-out is by 10 AM. Please bring your sheets, duvet cover, and pillowcase to reception (no need to bring duvets or pillows).
-
Return anything you borrowedโlike room keys or adapters.
-
Lights and fans off when you leave the room, please!
A Few No-Gos:
-
No smoking indoorsโeven with the window open.
-
No cooking outside the guest kitchen.
-
Donโt leave windows wide open with the heating on.
-
And above all: donโt be disrespectful.
Thanks for being the absolute best! Weโre glad youโre here. ๐งก
What is Balmers Hostel?
Balmers Hostel is Switzerlandโs oldest privately owned hostel, set in three charming Swiss chalets surrounded by mountain peaks waiting to be explored. Itโs 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
The most beautiful summer road trip in the world ๐จ๐ญ๐โฌ๏ธโ
โ
๐ Stop 1: Appenzell Alpsโ
โข Hike to รscherโ
โข Seealpsee morning reflectionsโ
โข Schรคfler Ridge for panoramic viewsโ
โ
๐ Stop 2: Bernese Oberlandโ
โข Oeschinensee panorama trailโ
โข Blausee (short stop, unreal color)โ
โข Sunset in Lauterbrunnen Valleyโ
โข Trรผmmelbach Fallsโ
โ
๐ Stop 3: Interlaken - Grindelwald Regionโ
โข First Cliff Walkโ
โข Hike to Bachalpseeโ
โข Cable car to Firstโ
โข Sunset at Harder Kulmโ
โ
๐ Stop 4: Central Switzerlandโ
โข Stoos Ridge hikeโ
โข Ride the worldโs steepest funicularโ
โข Lake views over Lake Lucerneโ
โ
๐ Stop 5: Eastern Switzerlandโ
โข Sunrise at Saxer Lรผckeโ
โข Scenic drives through alpine valleysโ
โ
โ๏ธ Best time to go: JuneโSeptember for hiking, cable cars & clear viewsโ
โ
Would you do this Switzerland road trip? ๐ฅนโ
๐ Save this for laterโ
โ
๐Donโt forget to follow @vh_travelwithme for more travel guides, things to do, and road trip itinerariesโ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/what-to-do-interlaken-upcoming/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bio
One of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland in winter ๐จ๐ญโ
โ
๐ Oeschinen Lake, Bernese Oberlandโ
โ
A winter hike that feels straight out of a postcard.โ
โ
๐ฅพ Kandersteg โ Oeschinenseeโ
โข 9 km round tripโ
โข 500 m elevation gainโ
โข Snowshoes or crampons, depending on snow and ice conditionsโ
โ
In winter, the famous panoramic trail is closedโ
(reopening June 2026).โ
โ
Still, the journey to the lake is absolutely worth it: frozen water, silent forests, and alpine views in every direction.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/day-trip-to-oeschinensee/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @steffi_inswiss
Interlaken winter flying at its finest โ๏ธ๐ชโ
โ
Crystal-clear skies, snow-covered peaks, and epic views over Lake Brienz ๐โ
This is what perfect January conditions look like in Interlaken ๐จ๐ญโจโ
โ
Wouldn`t you want to fly here in winter?โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ฅ captured @sonsibar @paraglidinginterlaken
Fun fact about **Balmers Hostel**:โ
โ
It all started back in **1907**, when Frida and Adolf Balmer opened a small *Touristenheim* for travellers. By the 1950s, they were already hosting British school groups, so you could say the hostel spirit here has been going strong for quite some time.โ
โ
In the 70s, the second generation expanded it from a modest 50 beds to one of the most iconic hostels in Switzerland.โ
โ
Today, the third generation is still running the show.โ
โ
So yesโฆ when you stay at Balmers, youโre not just booking a bed, youโre joining over a century of travellers passing through Interlaken.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/hostel "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
Picture by @baydean
Weโve seen the debates. ๐ซโ
Now tell us: What are the proper consequences when someone loses their bread in the fondue?โ
โ
And no, โrunning around the tableโ or โpaying a roundโ wonโt cut it - weโre talking high-stakes fondue justice. ๐โ
โ
๐Drop your rules in the comments - we need answers. โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/your-guide-to-eat-the-best-fondue-in-interlaken/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @switzerland
Not just a bed. A proper social life.โ
โ
At Balmers, the days are for mountains and the evenings are for everyone else.โ
โ
Think trivia nights that get surprisingly competitive.โ
Foosball battles that last far too long.โ
Movie nights with popcorn and a film.โ
Garden hangs. Bar chats. New mates by midnight.โ
โ
You can come solo. You wonโt stay that way.โ
โ
Check in for the Alps.โ
Stay for the atmosphere.โ
โ
Book your room and join in.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
March in Interlaken? Best of both worlds.โ
โ
Snow is still up high. Spring is waking up down low.โ
โ
One day, youโre carving fresh lines in the Jungfrau region. The next time youโre paragliding over two lakes. Feeling bold? Skydive it. Prefer something calmer? Kayak on Lake Brienz or wander through Lauterbrunnen while the waterfalls are showing off.โ
โ
Skiing. Snowboarding. Sledging. Skydiving. Paragliding. Canyon swings. Winter hikes. Early spring lake days.โ
โ
Adventure season doesnโt end here; it just gets interesting.โ
โ
Base yourself at Balmers. Weโll help you plan the rest.โ
Book your bed and make March count.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/activities "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @outdoorinterlaken
๐The Thrill Walk - Birgโ
Canton of Bern - Switzerlandโ
โ
๐จ๐ญ A walkway at 2,677 m has been built into the rock, offering breathtaking views of the three legendary peaks: Eiger, Mรถnch, and Jungfrau.โ
โ
โถ๏ธ Access:โ
Take the world`s steepest cable car from Stechelberg to Mรผrren, one of Switzerland`s most beautiful villages. Then, take a second cable car towards Birg.โ
โ
Access to the walkway is free.โ
Note: The Schilthorn summit is open this winter.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/schilthorn-what-to-do-what-to-see/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @steffi_inswiss
Grindelwald, Switzerland. This place ticks all the boxes for spectacular scenery, skiing, hiking, and enjoying the Alps. Grindelwald also has the longest toboggan run in the world at 15.4km. ๐ฟ๐กโ๏ธโ๏ธโ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/full-apres-ski-experience-in-grindelwald/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ฅ Video by @mygreatescapes @mygreatescapes
Ever heard of the โBlue Mind Effectโ? ๐โ๏ธโ
โ
Science shows that being near water lowers stress hormones and slows down our thoughts. In the winter, this effect is supercharged. The silence of Lake Brienz, the crisp alpine air, and the rhythmic stroke of your paddle create the ultimate mental reset.โ
โ
No summer winds, no crowdsโjust you and the mirror-like reflections of the Swiss Alps. Itโs more than an adventure; itโs moving meditation.โ
โ
Ready to clear your head? ๐ถโจโ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/activity/winter-kayak-tours/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @hightidekayak
My favourite trip to date! ๐จ๐ญ The trip I dreamed about for years, and I finally made it happen, all on my own. โ๏ธโ
โ
Traveling solo was something I never thought Iโd have the courage to do. As someone whoโs always surrounded by people, stepping out of my comfort zone felt terrifyingโฆ but it was exactly what I needed. I wanted to challenge myself, to grow, to prove that I could do things for myself and by myself.โ
โ
The first few days were scary, getting lost, taking the wrong train, figuring things out in a new country with a new language, but honestly, thatโs what made it so beautiful. The mistakes, the laughter, the little moments of โwow, I did that.โโ
โ
I was lucky enough to see a close friend in Germany and then set off on my own. It felt like me vs. the worldโฆ but the world showed up for me in the best way possible. I met the most amazing people in Balmoral, Interlaken, all solo travelers who became lifelong friends. We extended our stays, shared stories, and created memories Iโll never forget. ๐ซโ
โ
This trip was more than travel; it was a journey toward independence, confidence, and connection.๏ฟฝTo anyone reading this: leap. Do the thing that scares you. Donโt let fear, comfort, or opinions hold you back. The world is waiting, and itโs so worth it. ๐โจโ
โ
Cheers to the memories, the people, and to always saying yes to the adventure. ๐ฅ๐โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/hostel "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @michellegilmour33
Cosy corners. Fire nights in the garden. Proper chats that turn into long evenings.โ
โ
At Balmers Hostel, itโs not just a bed for the night, itโs the kind of place where strangers become your hiking crew by morning.โ
โ
โข Fire nights under the starsโ
โข Big garden for slow afternoonsโ
โข Lively bar when you fancy itโ
โข Quiet nooks when you donโtโ
โข Mountain views in every directionโ
โ
Adventure all day. Proper comfort at night.โ
โ
Book your room. Come to the Alps. Stay for the atmosphere.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/adventure-hostel-interlaken/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bio
14,000 feet.โ
One deep breath.โ
Then absolutely nothing beneath your trainers.โ
โ
Skydiving over Interlaken isnโt just a โtick the boxโ moment. Itโs lakes on both sides, the Jungfrau in front of you, and 45 seconds of pure freefall that rearranges your perspective entirely.โ
โ
Slightly civilised panic.โ
Utterly unreal views.โ
A landing youโll never stop talking about.โ
โ
Book the jump.โ
Sleep it off at Balmers.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/activity/helicopter-skydiving/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @skydiveswitzerland
Lucerne โ Iseltwald โ Grindelwald โ Lauterbrunnen โ Interlaken.โ
โ
Five stops. Zero regrets.โ
โ
Start with cobbled streets and lake views in Lucerne. Drift through the quiet charm of Iseltwald. Let Grindelwald show off beneath the Eiger. Stand still in Lauterbrunnen while waterfalls do their thing. Finish between two lakes in Interlaken, preferably with a pint in hand.โ
โ
The kind of road trip where every โquick stopโ turns into an hour.โ
โ
Base yourself at Balmers and make it legendary.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/hostel "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
Repost from @supirdieropa
When the cold sets in, the Interlaken holiday region becomes wonderfully cosy. GIide across a calm lake, slip into a warm pool or treat yourself to a delicious raclette or fondue. As if that were not enough, you can relax in a floating sauna and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Relaxing Hotpot experience in Brienz and Beatenberg Unique Hottug experience on Lake Brienz Sealander, a floating caravan on Lake Thun Floating sauna on Lake Thun with stunning view Enjoy delicious Raclette on a rafting-boat on Lake Brienz.
.
" www.balmers.com/winter "
.
Repost from @interlaken
Some leave with a backpack.
Some leave with a story.
And some leave us a postcard.
Weโve always liked the idea that a few lines scribbled over coffee can say more than a five-star review ever could. A thank you, a memory, a joke that only makes sense if you were there.
If youโve stayed with us at Balmers, youโll know โ itโs never just a bed for the night. Itโs the people you meet, the kitchen chats at 2am, the plans that werenโt planned.
Until next time.
.
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
๐Harder Kulm, Interlaken
If youโre planning a trip to Interlaken, Switzerland, donโt miss these panoramic views of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps ๐ป
How to reach ๐
Hop on the 10 minutes Harderbahn furnicular ride from the Harderbahn base station which is just a short walk from the Interlaken Ost station.
.
" www.balmers.com/hike-the-harder-kulm/ "
.
Repost from wheresjasmyn
Until next snow โ๏ธ
Sleds. Speed. Screams.
That kind of cold that bites your cheeks and makes the laughs louder.
No skills needed.
Winter hits different when you stop watching and start sliding.
.
" www.balmers.com/activity/day-sledding/ "
Run, lift, flyโฆ and WOW ๐ฎ๐ช
Watch this epic takeoff as pilot and guest launch and fly straight into the mighty Jungfrau region๐๏ธ
Moments like this = pure magic in the Swiss Alps ๐จ๐ญโจ
Would you dare to run off this hill?
.
" www.balmers.com/activity/paragliding "
๐ธ captured for PGI by kaufmannmike
@paraglidinginterlaken
Until next time, Balmers.
Some came as strangers, left as friends. Nights turned into stories, stories into memories that will travel far beyond Interlaken. From shared dinners to late talks, mountain mornings to unforgettable adventures, this is what Balmers is all about.
Our doors stay open, the lights stay warm, and your place here will always be waiting.
See you soon.
.
" www.balmers.com/hostel "
.
๐ท @_victoriaaldrich
โ๏ธ One of the most special winter experiences you can have in Switzerland: walk on the frozen Oeschinensee! ๐จ๐ญโ
โ
In winter, when conditions allow, they have a marked ice walk on the lake. Itโs open now, so itโs time for a day trip.โ
โ
To reach the lake, travel to Kandersteg, ride the gondola up, then follow the groomed snowy trail to the lakeside, about 30 mins.โ
โ
Always check the safety sign at the lake before stepping on the ice. Then enjoy a stroll on the ice, keeping within the marked borders, about a 1 km loop.โ
โ
โ ๏ธ Conditions can change quickly, so always check the trail status online and info boards before heading out. They regularly check ice stability and close the ice walk if necessary.โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/the-most-beautiful-lakes-around-interlaken/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
Repost from @swissfamilyfun
Join us for a day at Grindelwald-First and discover why it`s known as the Top of Adventure. You can fly above the winter wonderland on the First Flyer or sled downhill while breathing in the fresh mountain air. ๐ทโ๏ธโ
โ
Have you ever been and made your own memories here? Tell us about it โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/visit-grindelwald-first/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @jungfrauregion
It`s officially Carnival season in ๐จ๐ญ!! ๐ญ dates ๐๐ปโ
โ
This is definitely the most vibrant & fun event in Switzerland !! ๐ February consists of Carnival festivities happening across Switzerland, but the 2 most famous Fasnachts are:โ
โ
1. ๐๐ฎ๐ณ๐๐ซ๐ง`๐ฌ ๐
๐๐ฌ๐ง๐๐๐ก๐ญ ๐ญ โ
โ
๐
: 12 February 2026, Dirty Thursdayโ
Big Bang / Fritschi Day Wake-up Call, 5 amโ
Carnival Parade, 2 pmโ
โ
๐
14 February 2026, Rรผรผdig Saturdayโ
Various events in the city center, 12 pm to 11 pmโ
โ
๐
15 February 2026, Carnival Sundayโ
Carnival in the Littau districtโ
โ
๐
16 February 2026 Gรผdismontagโ
Wey-Tagwache, 6 amโ
Carnival parade, 2 pmโ
โ
๐
17 February 2026, Shrove Tuesday, โ
Children`s Monster Parade, 2:30 pmโ
Monster Parade, 7:30 pmโ
โ
๐ง๐ถ๐ฝ: ๐ถ๐`๐ ๐ฎ๐ป ๐๐ป๐๐ฝ๐ผ๐ธ๐ฒ๐ป ๐ฟ๐๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ ๐ต๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐๐ฝ!โ
โ
2. ๐๐๐ฌ๐๐ฅ`๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ ๐
๐๐ฌ๐ง๐๐๐ก๐ญ ๐ญโ
โ
๐
23 February 2026, Mondayโ
Morgenstreich, 4amโ
Carnival Parade 1.30pm - 6pmโ
โ
๐
24 February 2026, Tuesdayโ
Children`s Parade 12pm onwardsโ
Guggenmusik bands 7.30pm-11pmโ
โ
๐
25 February 2026, Wednesdayโ
Carnival Parade 1.30pm-6pmโ
Endstreich Various events happening all night until 4amโ
โ
๐
1,8,15 March 2026, Sundaysโ
Sunday marches w/o costumes, only music!โ
โ
๐ง๐ถ๐ฝ: ๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐๐ฝ ๐ถ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป ๐ฎ๐ ๐ฎ ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ฎ๐๐ผ๐ฟ!โ
.โ
" www.balmers.com/weekly-social-activities-at-balmers-hostel-and-social-events/ "โ
๐ More info in our link in bioโ
.โ
๐ท @yvetteinswitzerland
Private rooms and dorms.โ
A proper beer garden.โ
Bar and on-site club nights.โ
Guest kitchen. Pool table. Kicker. TV room.โ
โ
All right in the heart of Interlaken.โ
.โ
๐ Secure your stay at " www.balmers.com/hostel "โ
๐ More info in our link in bio
