A yoga weekend in the Bernese Oberland: the Schweibenalp above Lake Brienz
If you want a yoga weekend in Switzerland without taking time off, the Bernese Oberland is one of the most beautiful settings in the country. The Schweibenalp sits at 1,100 metres above Lake Brienz — about two hours from Zurich or Bern.
Why the Bernese Oberland for a yoga weekend?
Lakes, forests and mountains close together, easy to reach by train: the Bernese Oberland combines nature with short journeys. In autumn, once the season is over, places grow quiet. For a retreat, that is ideal.
The Schweibenalp: a place made for retreat
The Zentrum der Einheit Schweibenalp sits on a sunny terrace above the Giessbach falls. It has a historic guesthouse, a temple chalet, a meditation room built like a small temple, a vedic fire tent and around ten hectares of permaculture gardens. The kitchen is vegetarian and organic.
The house is simple: showers are along the corridor and there is no spa. In return it is quiet, and in November the fire tent is the warmest place on the mountain.
How to get there
- By train via Bern or Lucerne to Brienz
- PostBus towards Axalp to the Bramisegg stop
- About 15 minutes on foot through the forest
- The centre can pick you up at Brienz station on request — arrange your arrival time directly with the centre
- By car: A8, exit Brienz / Giessbach / Axalp, then about 800 m of forest road; winter tyres may be needed in November
What two days there look like
Our weekend follows three movements: arriving, exploring, integrating. On Friday an opening circle and first practice, and the fire ceremony if you choose it. On Saturday meditation in the temple, therapeutic yoga, a hike to the lake and mantra chanting in the evening. On Sunday morning meditation, yoga, art therapy and a closing circle until 13:00.
What does a yoga weekend at the Schweibenalp cost?
For our retreat, the price depends on room occupancy and includes two nights, organic full board and every session. Current prices are on the retreat page. The fire ceremony is optional and charged separately.
Tips for November in the mountains
- Pack warm layers and sturdy shoes
- Bring a torch for the path in the evening
- Book your train only once the retreat is confirmed
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Schweibenalp from Zurich?
About two hours by train to Brienz, then a PostBus to Bramisegg and a short walk.
Are there single rooms?
There are only a few single rooms. Rooms are allocated in order of registration.
Is the fire ceremony included in the price?
No, it is optional and costs extra. The cost is split among the participants.