Lake Brienz is the eastern of the two large lakes of the Bernese Oberland and one of the cleanest and clearest alpine lakes in Switzerland. Depending on the light, the water glows in intense turquoise to azure blue – an effect produced by fine glacial particles carried by the Aare and surrounding mountain streams. The lake is noticeably quieter and less commercially developed than Lake Thun.

The lakeshore roads pass through small hamlets such as Iseltwald, Oberried and Ringgenberg, with old timber houses and small bathing spots. The Giessbach Falls on the southern shore are the lake's best-known natural spectacle and easily reached by boat. In summer, BLS boats run regular services between Brienz, Giessbach and Interlaken Ost. Cycling and hiking trails run all around the lake.

Lake Brienz is accessible from Interlaken Ost by train to Brienz in around 20 minutes. By car, take the cantonal road along the northern or southern shore. Parking is available in Brienz, Iseltwald and other lakeside villages.