Switzerland Day 9: From Grindelwald to Lake Brienz | Iseltwald, Giessbach Falls & Grandhotel Giessbach

13 June 2024

A SLOW MORNING AT ASPEN, GRINDELWALD

I woke up to another beautiful morning in Grindelwald. Since it my last morning at Aspen Alpin Lifestyle Hotel, I decided to spend some time outdoors, soaking in the fresh mountain air and enjoying the scenery before checking out.

I simply sat outside my room, admiring the mountains in the distance. There was something incredibly peaceful about doing absolutely nothing. No rushing from one attraction to another, no worrying about the next destination. Just sitting there, breathing in the crisp alpine air and appreciating the beautiful surroundings.

The perfect Swiss countryside scene — grazing cows, wooden farmhouses and mountains partially hidden by the morning clouds.

A slow and peaceful morning at Aspen, enjoying the fresh alpine air and the beautiful mountain scenery.

After spending some time relaxing, I decided to take a little walk around the hotel grounds and the surrounding area.

One last look around Aspen Alpin Lifestyle Hotel, with the magnificent Swiss Alps rising in the background.

A little morning stroll around the hotel.

Towering snow-covered peaks and dramatic clouds — a breathtaking view of the mountains surrounding Grindelwald.

Rolling green hills, scattered chalets and forests stretching towards the mountains. Switzerland really is picture-perfect.

One final glimpse of the idyllic alpine scenery before bidding farewell to Aspen.

Then, it was time to check out of Aspen Alpin Lifestyle Hotel for my next adventure. A trip up to Eigergletscher aboard the Eiger Express cable car!

TAKING THE EIGER EXPRESS TO EIGERGLETSCHER

The Eiger Express is a modern gondola that connects Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher station, located approximately 2,320 metres above sea level. The journey takes just 15 minutes, but the scenery along the way is absolutely spectacular.

As the cable car ascended, I was treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape. Below me were endless stretches of dense green forest, winding mountain roads and lush meadows, while towering mountains rose dramatically in the distance.

A breathtaking view of the forested slopes and towering mountains as we ascended aboard the Eiger Express.

Travelling above the treetops towards Eigergletscher. What a scenic cable car ride!

One of the highlights of the ride was the view of the famous Eiger North Face, an imposing rock wall that has challenged mountaineers for generations. Standing at 3,967 metres, the Eiger is one of Switzerland's most iconic mountains, forming part of the famous trio of peaks alongside the Mönch and Jungfrau.

The higher the cable car climbed, the more the scenery changed. The green mountainsides gradually gave way to rugged rocky slopes, with patches of snow scattered across the landscape. It was fascinating to see the transition from the lush countryside below to the much harsher alpine environment above.

Getting closer to the rugged mountains, where patches of snow still covered the rocky slopes.

A beautiful turquoise reservoir nestled among the mountains, surrounded by patches of snow.

Before long, I arrived at Eigergletscher station.

Arriving at Eigergletscher station, 2,320 metres above sea level, surrounded by magnificent snow-covered mountains.

Stepping outside, I was greeted by snow-covered slopes, towering rock formations and magnificent mountain peaks. It was quite a contrast to the green meadows I had left behind in Grindelwald!

Clouds drifting across the snowy mountain peaks against a brilliant blue sky.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn't entirely on my side. Thick clouds drifted across the mountains, hiding much of the scenery that I had hoped to admire. I spent some time outdoors admiring the surroundings and taking photographs, hoping that the clouds might clear a little. Every now and then, the clouds would part, revealing glimpses of the snowy peaks before covering them again. I must admit, the views during the cable car ride were probably even more impressive than those at the top!

A view of the distant peaks and snow-covered slopes from the mountain station.

Exploring the snowy surroundings of Eigergletscher, with dramatic rock formations looming overhead.

Nevertheless, there was something quite mesmerising about watching the clouds move between the rugged mountains. With snow still covering parts of the ground and the dramatic rock formations rising above me, the landscape felt completely different from the picturesque villages and green valleys below.

From the viewpoint, I could also see a striking turquoise reservoir nestled among the surrounding mountains. Although it was an artificial reservoir rather than a natural alpine lake, its brilliant colour was absolutely beautiful, especially against the patches of snow scattered across the green slopes.

A spectacular panorama of green alpine meadows, lingering snow and a turquoise reservoir below.

Looking down towards the turquoise reservoir near Kleine Scheidegg, with alpine buildings tucked beneath the towering mountains.

KLEINE SCHEIDGGE AND A SCENIC WALK TOWARDS WENGEN

From Eigergletscher, I took the train down to Kleine Scheidegg, a mountain pass situated at approximately 2,061 metres above sea level. It was another beautiful spot, surrounded by magnificent alpine scenery.

A scene of snow-covered peaks emerging through drifting clouds from the train from Eigergletscher.

Patches of lingering snow scattered across the lush green slopes of the Swiss Alps as the train approaches Kleine Scheidegg.

Arriving at Kleine Scheidegg, the mountain railway junction nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps.

A little photo spot at Kleine Scheidegg, featuring the filming location of the Korean drama Crash Landing on You!

Snow-capped mountains towering above rolling green meadows, with little patches of yellow wildflowers adding colour to the landscape.

The scenery looked too beautiful to resist, and so I decided to explore the surroundings on foot, towards an intermediate station. That's the beauty of solo travelling, I suppose. No fixed schedule, no one to rush me, and the freedom to wander wherever I felt like going!

And I'm so glad I did.

What followed was an unexpectedly beautiful alpine walk. The scenery was completely different from Eigergletscher. Here, the rugged snowy mountain peaks formed a dramatic backdrop to vast stretches of green meadows. There were little yellow and white wildflowers scattered across the grass, patches of snow that had yet to melt, and winding paths cutting through the hills. I kept stopping to take photographs because every few steps seemed to offer another beautiful view.

Along the way, I passed open meadows, winding paths, a railway viaduct and even a little pond reflecting the mountains.

A winding alpine path disappearing towards the mountains.

Following the winding mountain path beneath the railway tracks, with breathtaking alpine scenery all around.

The winding path and snow-covered mountains beneath a brilliant blue sky.

The magnificent mountain peaks and their reflection.

A winding gravel path through the alpine meadows, with dramatic mountains rising in the distance.

A beautiful contrast between the rugged, snow-covered mountains and the lush green meadows below.

A yellow-and-green Wengernalp Railway train winding its way through the alpine hillside.

A stunning alpine landscape, with little yellow chairlifts adding a splash of colour beneath the towering mountains.

A little wooden chalet nestled into the hillside, surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery.

A charming little chalet surrounded by green meadows and wildflowers, with the mountains forming a spectacular backdrop.

A carpet of tiny white and yellow wildflowers spread across the alpine meadow beneath the towering cliffs. I really love the wildflowers!

A little mountain train travelling across the green slopes, surrounded by an endless alpine landscape.

Everything felt incredibly peaceful.

Looking back, this unplanned walk might actually have been one of my favourite parts of the day. There wasn't any particular attraction I was trying to reach. I was simply enjoying the scenery, taking photographs and soaking in the beauty of Switzerland at my own pace.

And sometimes, those are the moments that stay with you the longest.

A LITTLE STROLL AROUND BRIENZ

After spending some time wandering through the beautiful alpine meadows, it was time to bid farewell to the mountains and continue with my next adventure.

I made my way back to the railway and took a series of trains towards Brienz, where I would be staying at the beautiful Grandhotel Giessbach. Even the train journeys in Switzerland were incredibly scenic, with snow-covered mountains gradually giving way to lush green valleys, charming villages and picturesque countryside.

One last look at the lush green slopes and charming Swiss chalets as the train made its way down from the mountains.

A glimpse of the yellow-and-green Wengernalp Railway train as it curved through the beautiful Swiss countryside.

Before long, I caught my first glimpses of the beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Brienz.

My first glimpse of Lake Brienz, with its striking turquoise waters framed by traditional Swiss chalets.

The beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, surrounded by mountains stretching into the distance.

I had arranged for a shuttle transfer to Grandhotel Giessbach, but there was still some time before my scheduled pickup. Thankfully, I learnt that the Tourist Information Brienz office, located just opposite the railway station, offered luggage storage. How convenient!

The Brienz Tourist Information Centre, conveniently located opposite the railway station, where I was able to leave my luggage before exploring the village.

After leaving my luggage there, I decided to make the most of the waiting time by exploring the surroundings. And naturally, I headed towards Lake Brienz, which had such a beautiful shade of turquoise blue. I feel like that photographs don't do it justice!

The passenger boat Brienz docked along the lakeshore, surrounded by the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and the majestic Swiss Alps.

A peaceful afternoon by Lake Brienz, with little boats floating on its brilliant turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Spotted a little duck enjoying a swim in the incredibly clear turquoise water!

A few kayakers enjoying the beautiful weather on Lake Brienz.

The water was so clear near the shore that I could see the rocks beneath its beautiful turquoise surface.

Interestingly, the lake owes its distinctive turquoise colour to tiny mineral particles, often called glacial flour, carried into the water by glacial rivers. These suspended particles scatter sunlight, giving the lake its beautiful blue-green appearance.

Before long, it was time to head back, collect my luggage and catch the shuttle to Grandhotel Giessbach.

AN UNEXPECTED BOAT RIDE TO GRAND HOTEL GIESSBACH

I had originally booked the hotel shuttle to Grandhotel Giessbach. When the driver arrived, he kindly took my luggage and asked whether I had a Swiss Travel Pass.

I did!

He explained that the pass covered the boat ride across Lake Brienz, and that I could then take the historic funicular up to the hotel. He pointed out that since the weather was so beautiful that day, he would recommend taking the scenic route instead of travelling by road.

And as luck would have it, the boat was just about to depart!

So he told me to RUN!

Off I went, leaving my luggage in his care and making a dash for the boat hahaha.

What was supposed to be a straightforward shuttle transfer turned into an unexpected little adventure. And looking at the beautiful turquoise lake and surrounding mountains, I was so glad he suggested it!

A charming lakeside village nestled at the foot of the mountains.

The turquoise waters of Lake Brienz were so calm that they reflected the clouds above. Such a beautiful sight!

The driver was right — the weather was indeed perfect and the ride was exceptionally scenic.

A closer look at the lower cascades of Giessbach Falls, tumbling through the forest towards Lake Brienz.

TAKING THE HISTORIC GIESSBACH FUNICULAR

After arriving at Giessbach See, I boarded the historic Giessbach Funicular (Giessbachbahn) for the short ride up to Grandhotel Giessbach.

Dating back to 1879, the Giessbachbahn is considered the oldest funicular railway in Europe built specifically for tourists! Its charming vintage carriages have been transporting visitors from the lakeside landing stage to the hotel for well over a century.

The journey takes just a few minutes, climbing through the lush forest with glimpses of the beautiful Giessbach Falls along the way.

And I think I spotted a rainbow across the cascading waterfall!

It appeared only for a fleeting moment, so I didn't manage to capture it in a photograph. Such a pity! But it was a lovely little surprise, especially after the hotel shuttle driver had encouraged me to take the scenic route because of the beautiful weather.

A glimpse of the rushing Giessbach Falls, surrounded by lush greenery.

The charming Giessbachbahn, a historic funicular dating back to 1879, which carries visitors from the Lake Brienz boat landing up to Grandhotel Giessbach.

What a wonderful way to arrive at the hotel!

GRANDHOTEL GIESSBACH

I soon realised that Grandhotel Giessbach isn't just a hotel, but a tourist attraction in its own right!

Many visitors come here without staying overnight, whether to experience the historic funicular, admire the beautiful Giessbach Falls, explore the surrounding grounds or simply enjoy the views of Lake Brienz.

The hotel itself is a historic Belle Époque landmark, so it's easy to see why people would make a trip here even if they weren't staying the night.

As for me, I was fortunate enough to be checking in for a stay! One of the reasons I wanted to visit Grandhotel Giessbach was because it was featured in the Korean drama Crash Landing on You! The hotel appeared as the music school where Ri Jeong Hyeok studied during his time in Switzerland.

During check-in, the receptionist also helped me arrange my dinner reservation. She was incredibly friendly and took the time to explain the two dining options available at the hotel: Parkrestaurant Les Cascades, which offers classical French and Swiss cuisine, and Elisa – Bistro & Terrace, which offers a more contemporary dining experience with creative, seasonal dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

After explaining the differences between the two, she recommended Elisa, which sounded quite appealing to me. She also helped me make a dinner reservation for later that evening. I really appreciated how friendly and helpful the hotel staff were!

My first proper look at Grandhotel Giessbach, with its distinctive towers, red wooden balconies and beautiful historic architecture. The hotel appeared as the music school in the drama Crash Landing On You.

The breathtaking view of Lake Brienz from the hotel grounds! The turquoise lake looked absolutely stunning under the afternoon sunshine.

Just another photo of the scenery surrounding Grandhotel Giessbach. I could not stop taking photos.

The elegant interiors of Grandhotel Giessbach! From the elaborate chandelier to the antique furniture and decorative details, everything felt wonderfully nostalgic.

Even the corridors had much character, with their vintage furniture, patterned carpets and grand piano.

Another reason I chose the hotel was its location beside the beautiful Giessbach Falls. I specifically wanted a room overlooking the waterfall, which was something I was really looking forward to.

I decided to stay for just one night, partly because the hotel wasn't exactly cheap! Also, while its secluded location overlooking Lake Brienz was undeniably beautiful, it wasn't the most convenient base for exploring other places. Travelling to and from the hotel required a little more planning, whether by boat and funicular or the hotel's shuttle service.

One night seemed like a lovely little treat to enjoy the beautiful hotel and the Giessbach Falls!

My room for the night! It had a warm, old-fashioned charm, with wooden flooring, floral details and soft yellow curtains.

The bathroom was spacious, with a bathtub, vintage-style fittings and pretty sage-green tiles.

My room also had a lovely little sitting area, complete with antique-style green velvet furniture and floral wallpaper. It felt like a cosy room in an old European country house!

The highlight of the room! I could see Giessbach Falls cascading down the forested hillside from the room.

The private balcony overlooking Giessbach Falls! It has a little table and two chairs where I could sit and admire the cascading waterfall.

Even the room key had an old-world charm! Instead of a modern key card, I was given this rather substantial traditional key with a brass Grandhotel Giessbach fob. As an overnight guest, I could also enjoy complimentary rides on the historic Giessbach funicular during my stay.

Grandhotel Giessbach

Address: Giessbach, 855 Brienz, Switzerland

Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8VY6x2YQbgPCwzV77

Room Type: Superior Double Room with Waterfall View

Price: S$855.13 (1 night, inclusive of breakfast)

AN UNEXPECTED TRAVEL COMPANION AT GRANDHOTEL GIESSBACH

While checking in at Grandhotel Giessbach, I met another lady who happened to be from Singapore too! She noticed that we were from the same country and struck up a conversation with me.

We made a little small talk, and she asked where I was planning to go next.

Since there was still some time before dinner, I had decided to make a short trip to Iseltwald, another filming location from the Korean drama *Crash Landing on You*.

Iseltwald is a picturesque village along Lake Brienz, best known for its wooden pier where Ri Jeong-hyeok played the piano in the drama. As a fan of the show, I thought it would be nice to visit the filming location while I was in the area.

Getting there from Grandhotel Giessbach was relatively straightforward. I could take the historic funicular down to the Giessbach See boat landing and then catch a boat across Lake Brienz to Iseltwald. The boat timings worked out quite nicely too, leaving me enough time for a quick visit before returning to the hotel for dinner.

When I mentioned my plans, the lady spontaneously suggested that we go together!

I was like, okay, why not? Hahaha.

I didn't think too much of it at that point. After all, we were both Singaporeans travelling in Switzerland, and it seemed nice to have some company for a little excursion.

And so, off we went to Iseltwald!

Back on the historic Giessbach funicular, making my way down to the lakeside pier to catch the boat to Iseltwald.

Cruising across Lake Brienz towards Iseltwald. The turquoise water was absolutely mesmerising, sparkling beneath the afternoon sunshine.

Approaching Iseltwald, with the picturesque Schloss Seeburg standing beside the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. The village looked like something straight out of a storybook!

EXPLORING ISELTWALD – THE FAMOUS CRASH LANDING ON YOU FILMING LOCATION

Iseltwald is undeniably beautiful, with its charming Swiss houses, surrounding mountains and sparkling turquoise waters of Lake Brienz.

However, I have to admit that I found Iseltwald a little underwhelming.

Perhaps it was because I had already visited so many breathtaking places in Switzerland by this point. After seeing the dramatic Alpine landscapes, snow-capped mountains and picturesque villages throughout my trip, I suppose my expectations had become rather high!

Iseltwald was still lovely, of course, but it was also a very small village, and there wasn't particularly much to explore. I found that I could finish looking around fairly quickly.

One of the main attractions was, naturally, the famous wooden pier featured in Crash Landing on You.

Interestingly, visitors now have to pay CHF 5 to access the pier! A turnstile was installed following the overwhelming popularity of the filming location, as the small village had been receiving large numbers of tourists hoping to recreate the iconic piano scene.

I remember looking at the entrance and thinking, "Hmm, do I really want to pay just to walk onto the pier?"

Personally, I didn't think it was necessary.

I suppose if I were travelling with a friend or partner, I might have been more willing to pay for the experience and take some photographs recreating the scene. But since I was travelling solo, it seemed a little sad to pay just to stand on the pier by myself. Besides, the view of Lake Brienz was equally beautiful from the surrounding shore! So I was perfectly happy standing nearby, taking photographs with the sparkling turquoise lake

Arriving at Iseltwald, a tiny lakeside village with magnificent mountain views and sparkling turquoise water. Spot the wooden jetty featured in the drama Crash Landing On You!

The wooden jetty decorated with red flowers, overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Brienz.

Following a little path past rustic wooden cottages and lush green meadows. It was lovely discovering the quieter side of Iseltwald.

A charming wooden cottage covered in blooming red roses.

A peaceful little path between green meadows and traditional Swiss chalets, with the mountains rising behind them.

Looking down towards the little village of Iseltwald, with wooden chalets scattered between green meadows and the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. Such a picturesque sight!

A charming building peeking through the trees.

The little winding path leading back towards the village centre, with Lake Brienz waiting at the bottom. Such a beautiful view for an ordinary afternoon stroll.

A lovely view of Iseltwald's traditional Swiss chalets, with their terracotta rooftops clustered along Lake Brienz. In the distance, the little peninsula with its castle-like building makes the village look especially picturesque against the towering mountains.

Back at the Iseltwald boat landing to return to Grandhotel Giessbach.

EXPLORING GIESSBACH FALLS BEFORE DINNER

After returning to Grandhotel Giessbach from Iseltwald, the Singaporean lady asked me where I was planning to go next. Since I still had some time before my dinner reservation, I thought I would take a walk up to Giessbach Falls.

There are walking trails around the waterfall, including one that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. It sounded like a lovely way to spend the remaining afternoon, especially since the waterfall was one of the main reasons I had chosen to stay at the hotel.

The lady mentioned that she had some mobility difficulties and decided not to join me. I was actually a little relieved, to be honest. I could explore at my own pace without having to worry about whether the walk would be too strenuous for her.

Off I went to explore Giessbach Falls!

The views along the trail were beautiful, with the water cascading down the mountainside and glimpses of the surrounding greenery and Lake Brienz. I enjoyed being able to admire the waterfall from different angles, especially after having spent much of the afternoon looking at it from my hotel room.

The magnificent Giessbach Falls cascading down the forested mountainside. Vistors that walk through the bridge.

Another view of Giessbach Falls, with the water tumbling over several rocky tiers. The sheer volume of rushing water was quite impressive!

I followed the winding trail through the forest towards the waterfall.

Getting closer to the waterfall! The water was crashing down with incredible force, sending a fine mist into the surrounding air.

One of the highlights of Giessbach Falls is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall! A narrow passage carved into the rock leads behind the cascading water. Such a unique experience!

Watch how powerfull the Giessbach Falls is!

Looking through the curtain of cascading water towards Grandhotel Giessbach in the distance.

What surprised me, however, was how quiet the trail was. There was practically nobody around!

Usually, I would describe a place like this as peaceful and tranquil. But with the daylight gradually fading, the deserted paths and the sound of rushing water made the atmosphere feel just a little eerie. Oops. It was beautiful, no doubt, but I couldn't help feeling slightly creeped out walking around there all by myself.

Perhaps it was because the surroundings were getting darker, or perhaps I was simply too conscious of the fact that there was nobody else in sight. Either way, it certainly added a different mood to my little waterfall adventure!

Still, I'm glad I went. The Giessbach Falls were magnificent, and it was lovely to experience them up close rather than just admire them from afar.

The forest floor was dotted with moss-covered boulders, almost like something out of a fairytale. Except that I was walking alone, and the silence was starting to feel a little eerie.

Making my way back through the forest, with the late-afternoon sunlight streaming through the trees. It was beautiful, although I was rather glad to be heading back towards civilisation.

A gorgeous view of Grandhotel Giessbach nestled among the greenery, with the mountains rising behind it. From this angle, the hotel looks like a fairytale castle!

The rushing waters of Giessbach making their way over the rocks before plunging down another cascade. Even away from the main waterfall, the scenery was beautiful.

DINNER AT ELISA – BISTRO & TERRACE

Dinner at Elisa started off on a rather unexpected note.

When I arrived at the restaurant, I found out that the Singaporean lady I had met earlier during check-in, who was travelling with her sister, had somehow added both of them to my dinner reservation, telling the restaurant staff that we knew each other.

I was quite taken aback. I mean, yes, we had chatted earlier and even visited Iseltwald together, but I certainly hadn't agreed to have dinner together! I wasn't opposed to having company, but I would have appreciated being asked first.

Perhaps she was simply being friendly and meant well, but I couldn't help feeling that she was overstepping my boundaries a little. It was also a small reminder to myself that information shared casually in conversation might sometimes be taken as an invitation for more than I had intended.

Anyway, I explained the situation to the waiter.

And this was where the service at Grandhotel Giessbach really impressed me.

Rather than making things awkward, he was incredibly understanding. He reassured me that there was absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to dine alone and encouraged me not to feel uncomfortable about expressing my preference. He then kindly arranged a separate table for me.

I was so relieved!

But the story didn't end there. When the lady arrived at the restaurant, she noticed me sitting alone and called out to ask why I wasn't joining them, saying that she had made a reservation for the three of us.

Before I even had to figure out how to respond, the waiter stepped in.

I can't remember his exact words, but he very tactfully explained that it would be lovely for me to enjoy my dinner on my own. He handled the situation with such grace and sensitivity that nobody was made to feel embarrassed or rejected.

I was genuinely touched.

He even made sure that I was seated some distance away from the two ladies, giving me the space and privacy I wanted. Throughout dinner, he also came by occasionally to check that everything was alright. So thoughtful!

Unfortunately, I have absolutely no recollection of what I ordered for dinner. And for some inexplicable reason, I didn't take a single photograph of the food either! All I remember is that the food was good, and the service was even better.

Looking back, what stayed with me wasn't so much the meal itself, but the kindness and thoughtfulness of the waiter. He handled an awkward situation with such tact and made sure I could enjoy my evening in peace. Perhaps I was overthinking the whole situation. The lady was probably harmless and genuinely thought it would be nice for us to dine together. I certainly didn't think she had any bad intentions. Still, I felt that she had been a little too intrusive, and I was grateful that the waiter understood without making me feel unreasonable.

Sometimes, it's the people you encounter during your travels who leave the most lasting impressions.

The entrance to Elisa – Bistro & Terrace, where I had dinner.

A cosy corner of the restaurant, with beautiful curtains framing a view of Lake Brienz.

The moon hanging above Lake Brienz as evening settled in. After an unexpectedly eventful dinner, it was lovely to end the evening with such a peaceful view.

AND WITH THAT...

Another beautiful day in Switzerland came to an end.

Back in the comfort of my room at Grandhotel Giessbach, I could admire the magnificent Giessbach Falls illuminated against the darkness. It was such a magical sight, and exactly the kind of experience I had hoped for when I decided to splurge on a room overlooking the waterfall.

Looking back, this day was memorable for more reasons than one. The spectacular mountain scenery, the unbelievably turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, the charming little village of Iseltwald and the breathtaking Giessbach Falls were all wonderful in their own ways. There were also a few unexpected encounters that reminded me of the importance of setting boundaries, even when travelling.

But above all, what stayed with me was the kindness and thoughtfulness of the people I met, particularly the lovely staff at Grandhotel Giessbach, who made my short stay feel so special. From the warm welcome at check-in to the considerate waiter who helped me navigate an awkward situation during dinner, I genuinely felt well taken care of throughout my stay.

Although I only spent one night here, Grandhotel Giessbach turned out to be one of the most memorable stays of my Switzerland trip. Sometimes, it is not just the beauty of a place that makes an experience special, but also the people who make you feel welcome.

And as I settled in for the night, with the gentle glow of the waterfall outside my window, I couldn't have asked for a lovelier way to end the day.

The magnificent Giessbach Falls illuminated after dark, as seen from my room. What a privilege to be able to enjoy such a beautiful view!

Love,

Shu