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Top 10 Fascinating Facts about Axalp

Axalp is a high alpine pasture in the Bernese Oberland, which was developed as a tourist resort in the late 19th century and as a ski resort in the 1960s. Over the years, the infrastructure around the Axalp has been improved including the construction of numerous hotels.

It is one of three traditional alpine cooperatives south of Brienz, the other two being Hinterburg to the east and Tschingelfeld to the south. Axalp is ideally located for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

Axalp is easily accessible and can be reached by post bus or car in 40 minutes from the Brienz. Below are the top 10 fascinating facts about Axalp.

1. Be Fascinated by the Stunning Views from the Axalp Resort

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Located in a picturesque alpine landscape and surrounded by the adjacent mountain peaks, Axalp lies about 1535 m above sea level and forms part of the municipality of Brienz.

From the top, the village, with its pretty chalets, wooden houses, and alpine huts is laid out like a panoramic terrace situated on an idyllic plateau high above Lake Brienz.

Admire the majestic mountain landscape surrounding you and enjoy the intense turquoise of the glistening lake in the valley below.

Axalp offers guaranteed picture-perfect moments throughout the year, and it is a beautiful holiday resort and the ideal starting point for mountain tours and winter sports.

2. Axalp is a Perfect Spot for Winter Sports

In winter, Axalp transforms into a snow-covered natural paradise with stunning views over the wintry mountains and lakes.  The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,400 and 2,000 m, with 15 km of slopes and 3 km of ski routes available. 

The ski lifts are run by Axalp Windegg AG, and there are 4 lifts that are used to transport the guests. It is also a family-friendly resort, with a special ski area that caters to the youngest skiers. Two children’s tow lifts can be used free of charge.

The nursery slope is geared towards teaching children to ski in a fun ambiance. Sledding, snow fun, and seating for parents and onlookers round off the attraction.

It also offers sign-posted snowshoe paths and groomed cross-country skiing trails.

3. Enjoy the Panoramic Views with an Overnight Stay

A variety of pretty alpine huts and restaurants are the perfect place to relax after an active day of winter sports or an eventful hike.

Recharge your batteries with some delicious Swiss specialties and fall under the spell of the majestic mountain panorama. Sit back and relax on the comfortable sun terraces.

 Discover the many accommodation options and spend your holidays or long weekend in Axalp. Choose between comfortable holiday apartments, welcoming hotel rooms, and a variety of house rental options for groups.

4. It is the Starting Point for Hiking and Mountain Tours

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From spring to autumn, a variety of hiking trails and mountain tours are organized from Axalp into the stunning natural landscape and up to the majestic mountain peaks.

Nature lovers will discover active recreation on the picturesque woodcarving trail. A winding trail leads to the hand-carved wooden sculptures of the magical Lake Hinterburgseeli.

Hikers will be enchanted by the idyllic mountain lake in the nature reserve. As they progress, their perspective of the shimmering turquoise tones of Lake Brienz continually changes.

A hike through the wild and romantic Giessbach Valley is unique and leaves an unforgettable experience.

5. Enjoy Axalp Air Show

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Every year in the third week of October the public is welcome to watch live firing events on the three designated targets. The show is done courtesy of the Swiss Air Force.

This shooting range has been in use for target practice by the Swiss Air Force since 1942. The range has been used ever since and the area has been the subject of many types of tests and exercises.

Over the past few decades, the number of visitors attending the air show has dramatically increased from a few hundred to over 10.000 visitors.

6. Discover Giessbach Waterfall

Axalp is not short of beautiful places to see and the Giessbach waterfall, close to Brienz and Interlaken, is definitely one of the best things to see when visiting the area.

The impressive Giessbach waterfall cascades 500 metres from the Giessbach brook down into Lake Brienz in 14 stages. It can be reached either by hiking there or by taking Europe’s oldest funicular from the shore of Lake Brienz.

The added bonus of the Giessbach waterfall is that it is completely free of charge as local and foreign visitors are not required to pay any fees to see it.

7. Travel with the Brienz Rothorn Train

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The steam locomotive with its red carriages puffs its way up the mountain, passing through green forests and tunnels. As you continue your journey, you will enjoy an incredible panorama of the surrounding mountains and turquoise-colored Lake Brienz.

Once you reach the summit, the Berghaus awaits you with Swiss specialties and overnight accommodation. The panoramic view from the summit is unforgettable.

The Brienz Rothorn Railway is operational from June to October, early season possible until midway station Planalp. There are plenty of things to do in and around the railway and the Brienzer Rothorn. 

8. Visit Ballenberg Open-air Museum

Immerse yourself in the past and enjoy a stunning natural idyll at the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum. Experience the culture and customs of Switzerland at close hand and visit all of Switzerland in just one day. Adventurers, discoverers, and nature lovers will be in their element here.

The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is situated in the Holiday Region Interlaken in the heart of Switzerland. It is also easily accessible from any direction by public transport or by car. 

9. Experience Lake Brienz Mesmerising Waters

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Set in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, the turquoise-toned Lake Brienz promises experiences to remember with its mesmerizing waters at any time of year.

Gaze on imposing mountain slopes around the banks of the lake or take a tour of discovery to the picturesque villages surrounding Lake Brienz. Experience the full range of water-based activities, and relax with winter bathing in a Hotpot by the Brienz quayside.

10. Dine at Hilten Axalp Restaurant

Hilten Axalp restaurant is located in the beautiful skiing and hiking area of ​​Axalp ob Brienz. Enjoy the sun on our beautiful terrace with a magnificent view of the lakes and mountains, or let yourself be pampered with a fine meal in the warm parlor.

For the people who would like to organize a party, plan a family or club event, or have a barbecue with friends, Hilten Axalp restaurant hosts and support those events.