Hinterburgseeli: the quiet pearl above Lake Brienz

Nestled in the steep slopes above Axalp lies the idyllic Hinterburgseeli. A place that radiates calm. While Oeschinensee struggles with visitor crowds and headlines, it remains comparatively quiet here. This may be because even the journey there is somewhat more demanding: The post bus to Axalp winds up a narrow road about 1000 meters in altitude and runs only rarely. Those planning the trip should definitely keep an eye on the timetable.

Fairy tale forest idyll in the mountains
The hike to Hinterburgseeli begins at the terminal station of the post bus. The proximity to the woodcarver village Brienz is unmistakable: The hiking trail is lined with numerous wooden sculptures. Along the path, you encounter carved animals, fairy tale figures, and people – artfully made from rootstocks and tree trunks left by Storm Lothar. The path goes up and down gently, leading through a fairy-tale-like forest and into the Hinterburg-Oltscheren nature reserve, where many orchids bloom in early summer. A few meters before the lake, instead of following the path down to the shore, you take the one to the restroom. You should definitely take the chance for a toilet break before following the narrow trail to the lakeshore. Those who have brought barbecue food can grill it at the designated fire pits. Swimming in the lake is allowed – but polluting the water is not. Anyone who doesn’t use cosmetically certified natural sunscreen without microplastics should stay on the shore.

From Hinterburgseeli, the hiking trail steadily ascends to Chrutmettli – a few glances back are worthwhile, as the gem soon disappears from view. From where the trail crosses the roadway, it is only a few meters to the Hilten Axalp restaurant. Shortly after, the hiking trail joins the outbound path again, which we follow back to the post bus station.

Text: Karin Meier