The forest, with its enchanted hiking trails and rushing waterfall, is like something out of a fairy tale.
The Giessbach Falls and their surroundings have been protected as a cantonal natural monument since 1950. Thanks to the Giessbach Foundation, the Grandhotel Giessbach and its surrounding forest are a cultural asset of national importance. The forest above Lake Brienz with its enchanted hiking trails, magnificent vegetation and rushing waterfall is an ecological jewel.
The forest, like the hotel, exudes an aura of eternity. It is reminiscent of a fairytale forest with majestic trees, unique vegetation, moss-covered rocks and rare ferns. The energy of the forest is combined with that of the water of the Giessbach Falls, which cascade down over 400 meters, and the turquoise-green Lake Brienz. The beauty, tranquillity and fresh air of the place are ideal for pausing and recharging your batteries.
There is no economic logging in the Giessbach forest. Harvesting machines have never been used and there are no logging roads. Necessary interventions are limited to safety measures against rockfall and tree care along the paths, parking lots and the funicular. The protected status allows the forest to develop naturally without human intervention. The healthy soil stores a lot of water, air and carbon, which means it dries out less. The natural processes of germination, growth, ageing and decay provide a habitat for many animals, fungi, plants and lichen species.
Although nature is wild on the 22-hectare area, it requires intensive care. Park rangers like Thomas Herren ensure that the paths are well maintained, safe and clean. Trees are cared for, branches removed, rocks secured and paths and squares renovated. Employees of the Giessbach ensure that guests are well informed and sensitized to nature and culture.
