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Switzerland
Zentralschweiz
Obwalden

Giswil

Attractions and Places To See around Giswil - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Giswil, a municipality in the canton of Obwalden, Switzerland, offer a blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Nestled at the foot of the Brünig and Glaubenbielen Passes, the region features the pre-Alpine Lake Sarnen and prominent peaks. It provides a serene escape with numerous sites for visitors.

Best attractions and places to see around Giswil

  • The most popular attractions is Brienzer Rothorn Summit, a summit that offers panoramic views of Central Switzerland, the Bernese Alps, and Lake Brienz. This location is also known for its ridge hike.
  • Another must-see spot is Giessbach Falls, a waterfall where water plunges approximately 400 meters. A walkway allows passage behind the water, and views of the Grand Hotel are available from several vantage points.
  • Visitors also love Tannensee, a mountain lake. This location provides either a wild highland feeling or a bathing experience, and is often less touristy than Melchsee.
  • Giswil is known for its diverse natural features, including summits, waterfalls, and lakes. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor activities and natural landscapes in the region.
  • The attractions around Giswil are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 450 upvotes and more than 300 photos shared across 58 highlights.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Brienzer Rothorn Summit

Highlight • Summit

Magnificent mountain scenery, panoramic views of Central Switzerland or the Bernese Alps and the green-blue Lake Brienz in the valley... also a very beautiful ridge hike, but only recommended for those with surefootedness and a head for heights.

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Fürstein Summit

Highlight • Summit

The hike is not very difficult, a good mountain walker and sure-footedness are needed.
The ascent and descent of the Fürstein is steep and therefore not easy to commit.
Above you can expect a great all-round view, even to the midlands.

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Giessbach Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

The water plunges approximately 400 meters. About halfway down, a walkway allows you to go behind the water. The view of the Grand Hotel from several vantage points is breathtaking.

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Melchsee-Frutt

Highlight • Lake

Hiking, fishing, skiing, just enjoying the view and the beauty of the mountains. Everything is possible on the shore of this dream lake.

The cable car takes exhausted hikers comfortably down into the valley to Stöckalp, the valley station is served by the post bus.

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Tannensee

Highlight • Lake

The Tannensee is a true gem. Depending on the weather, you get a wild highland feeling or a liberating bathing feeling in a Swiss mountain lake. A little less touristy than the Melchsee.

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Tips from the Community

JR on Tour
July 22, 2024, Tannensee

Beautifully situated mountain lake surrounded by a wonderful mountain panorama... either easily accessible from Melchsee-Frutt or via the more challenging 4-lake hike from Engelberg

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JR on Tour
July 22, 2024, Tannensee

Beautifully situated mountain lake surrounded by a wonderful mountain panorama... either easily accessible from Melchsee-Frutt or via the more challenging 4-lake hike from Engelberg

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Regina
October 27, 2023, Fürstein Summit

Always a special sight, the Seeli and the view of the mountains. Simply great.

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Gabi
July 5, 2023, Tannensee

The Tannensee in the Urner Alps is the upper reservoir in the source area of the Grosse Melchaa, a tributary of the Sarner Aa. It is located in the Swiss canton of Obwalden in the municipality of Kerns in the area of the summer and winter sports resort of Melchsee-Frutt and on the mountain saddle between the Tannenalp and the Melchseealp. Source: Wikipedia

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Gabi
July 5, 2023, Melchsee-Frutt

The Melchsee-Frutt high plateau is located in the heart of Central Switzerland at 1920 m and offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The natural landscape, the mountain lake and the unique flora guarantee unforgettable moments.

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take good hiking shoes with you, and a jacket can suddenly get cold.....

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Groofy
January 29, 2023, Fürstein Summit

Super nice 360 degree panorama.

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Manuela
October 25, 2022, Fürstein Summit

Great view. A must for every experienced hiker

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Giswil?

Giswil is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the serene Tannensee, a mountain lake offering a wild highland feeling or a refreshing bathing experience. The majestic Giessbach Falls plunge approximately 400 meters, with a walkway allowing you to go behind the water. Other notable features include Sarnersee for water sports, the prominent Giswilerstock peak, and the enchanting Guberwald Forest with its trails and whimsical flora.

Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in Giswil?

Yes, Giswil offers several historical and cultural landmarks. You can explore the Parish Church of St. Laurentius, built in 1635 on a former fortress hill, and the adjacent Ossuary Chapel of St. Michael. Discover the ancient Rudenz Castle Ruins, once the seat of local administrators, or the remains of Rosenberg Castle, considered the oldest in Giswil. The Schrotenmatt House, dating back to 1467, is presumed to be the oldest preserved wooden house in the area.

What outdoor activities are popular around Giswil?

The region around Giswil is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, gravel biking, and mountain hikes. Popular routes include the Bärgmandli path, the Mändli Ridge Hike, and trails around Glaubenbielen. For more details on specific routes and their difficulties, you can explore the Hiking around Giswil, Gravel biking around Giswil, and Mountain Hikes around Giswil guides.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Giswil?

Absolutely! Giswil offers several family-friendly options. The Melchsee-Frutt high plateau is a hub for outdoor activities suitable for families, with a mountain lake and unique flora. The Tannensee is also considered family-friendly. In winter, Mörlialp is a small, family-friendly ski region offering skiing, tobogganing, and snowshoe trekking. The Schacher Seppli Adventure Trail also provides an engaging experience for children.

What kind of views can I expect from the summits around Giswil?

The summits around Giswil offer breathtaking panoramic views. From Brienzer Rothorn Summit, you can see Central Switzerland, the Bernese Alps, and the green-blue Lake Brienz. Fürstein Summit is known for its super nice 360-degree panorama, extending even to the midlands. These views are often described as magnificent, especially towards iconic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

What are the best places for water activities near Giswil?

Sarnersee (Lake Sarnen) is a central feature of the region, perfect for water sports such as swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The Tannensee, a mountain lake, also offers a liberating bathing experience. For a more unique natural setting, the Steinibach Stream, flowing down from the Glaubenberg, has primeval-looking landscapes and is popular for summer bathing.

Can I visit Giswil during winter, and what activities are available?

Yes, Giswil is also a great destination in winter. Mörlialp, a small ski region above Giswil, offers various winter sports activities including skiing, tobogganing, winter hiking, and snowshoe trekking. The snowy landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures.

Are there any hidden gems or less touristy spots around Giswil?

The Tannensee is often described as a true gem and less touristy than the more well-known Melchsee, offering a wild highland feeling. The Stuckli Seebli Waterfalls provide a serene setting for a peaceful retreat, perfect for a refreshing dip or a picnic away from crowds. The Guberwald Forest also offers enchanting trails for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Giswil?

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent mountain scenery and panoramic views, especially from summits like Brienzer Rothorn Summit. The natural beauty of the lakes, like Melchsee-Frutt and Tannensee, is highly appreciated for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the views. The diverse range of outdoor activities and the unique flora also contribute to unforgettable moments for visitors.

Are there any notable viewpoints for scenic photography?

Absolutely. The Brienzer Rothorn Summit and Fürstein Summit offer incredible 360-degree panoramas of the Alps and lakes. The Kaiserstuhl Lookout Point also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges, making it ideal for photographers. Additionally, the Glaubenbielen Pass (Panoramastrasse) offers beautiful views of Sarnersee and Stanserhorn peak.

What is the Melchsee-Frutt area known for?

The Melchsee-Frutt high plateau, located at 1920 meters, is renowned as a hub for diverse outdoor activities. It boasts stunning natural landscapes, a beautiful mountain lake, and unique flora. It's a popular spot for hiking, fishing, climbing, and simply enjoying the serene mountain environment.

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