If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and have “take the perfect Lake Brienz selfie” on your bucket list – this post is for you!
The Pier That Became a Global Star
Hidden in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, the peaceful lakeside village of Iseltwald was once a quiet insider tip among locals and hikers. That all changed when a now-legendary romantic scene from the Korean Netflix drama Crash Landing on You was filmed on a small wooden pier by the lake.
Since then, Iseltwald has become a must-visit destination for K-Drama fans, especially from Asia. Every day, hundreds of tourists make the pilgrimage to this tiny village just for one thing: the perfect photo on the iconic pier.
Why a Fee? The 5 CHF Selfie Debate
With fame came challenges. The sudden influx of tourists brought a wave of problems:
- Overflowing trash bins
- Constantly full restrooms
- Crowds in the tiny village center
- Visitors leaving without spending a cent
To cope with the pressure on infrastructure and services, Iseltwald introduced a 5 CHF fee in 2023 to access the pier. A turnstile was installed, and now visitors must pay to get that viral selfie shot.
Where Does the Money Go?
Contrary to what some may think, the fee isn’t about profit. It’s used to cover essential services that keep Iseltwald beautiful and accessible:
| Service | Covered by Pier Fee |
|---|---|
| Public toilet cleaning | ✅ |
| Waste management | ✅ |
| Security & staff presence | ✅ |
| Infrastructure maintenance | ✅ |
The village reinvests all revenue into keeping the area clean, safe, and welcoming.
What Tourists Should Know
Here are a few quick facts if you’re planning to visit:
- 💰 Pier access fee: 5 CHF per person (via ticket machine)
- 🚻 Toilets: 1 CHF, located nearby
- 🕰️ Best time to visit: Early morning or weekdays
- 📷 Photography tip: If you don’t want to pay, you can still get great shots of the pier from the lakeside promenade
Tourist Etiquette in Iseltwald
Remember: Iseltwald is not a film set – it’s a real Swiss village with real residents. If you visit:
- Be respectful of private property
- Take your trash with you
- Avoid blocking paths or taking loud videos
- Consider supporting the local café, restaurant, or souvenir shop
Even a small coffee purchase helps the local economy and shows appreciation for the community welcoming you.
More Than Just a Selfie Spot
While the pier is undoubtedly the star of the show, Iseltwald offers so much more:
- 🚶♀️ Charming lake promenades
- ⛴️ Boat trips on Lake Brienz
- 🏞️ Scenic hikes into the surrounding hills
- ☕ Cozy spots to enjoy Swiss treats by the water
Why not make a half-day or even full-day trip out of it?
Final Thoughts
The 5 CHF selfie fee may feel unusual at first, but it’s a small price to pay to preserve one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakeside locations. By contributing, you’re helping to keep Iseltwald clean, welcoming, and sustainable – so that future visitors can enjoy it just as much as you.
So go ahead – grab that picture-perfect moment, breathe in the alpine air, and experience a slice of cinematic magic on the shores of Lake Brienz.
Looking for more hidden gems in Switzerland? Explore my travel blog for insider tips, must-see spots, and real-life advice from locals and travelers alike.
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