Reichenbach Falls

Waterfalls in Bern

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Juck He

Tumbling through seven spectacular stages, the Reichenbach Falls are among the most breathtaking natural sights in the Bernese Oberland. Plunging a total of 250 meters (820 feet) down the Rychenbach stream, with the tallest drop—the Grand Reichenbach Fall—soaring 110 meters (360 feet), these cascades have captivated visitors for centuries. Set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and alpine forests, they remain one of the best places to go on a day trip from Interlaken, offering both natural beauty and literary fame.

Located just above the town of Meiringen, the falls became world-renowned after Sir Arthur Conan Doyle chose them as the dramatic setting for Sherlock Holmes’ final battle with Professor Moriarty in “The Final Problem.” Fans still come from around the world to trace the detective’s final steps, while others are drawn simply by the grandeur of the water and the peaceful valley below.

History and Significance of Reichenbach Falls
Things to See and Do at Reichenbach Falls
How to Get to Reichenbach Falls
Practical Tips for Visiting Reichenbach Falls
Nearby Attractions to Reichenbach Falls

History and Significance of Reichenbach Falls

Long before becoming a literary icon, the Reichenbach Falls were a local natural wonder celebrated for their sheer scale and beauty. The Rychenbach stream, a tributary of the Aare River, descends from the alpine slopes near the Rosenlaui Glacier, carving its way through deep gorges before dropping spectacularly into the Haslital Valley.

The falls gained international fame in 1893 when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle immortalized them in his Sherlock Holmes story “The Final Problem.” According to the tale, Holmes and his arch-nemesis Professor Moriarty plunged to their deaths here during a violent struggle, though Holmes later returned in a sequel to the delight of his readers. Today, a commemorative plaque near the viewing platform marks the fictional duel, and a bronze statue of Holmes stands proudly in nearby Meiringen.

Beyond its literary legacy, the falls also have a practical history. Their water power has long been harnessed for hydroelectric energy, reducing the flow at certain times of the year. Still, during peak flow in late spring and early summer, the Reichenbach Falls thunder with astonishing force—a sight that embodies the raw energy of the Swiss Alps.

Things to See and Do at Reichenbach Falls

Most visitors begin their journey aboard the Reichenbach Funicular, a historic cable railway that has been operating since 1899. The funicular glides up the steep hillside in just a few minutes, offering stunning views of the valley and the roaring falls. At the top, a short, well-marked trail leads to several lookout points where you can feel the spray and admire the sheer drop of the Grand Reichenbach Fall.

The main viewing platform is also home to the famous Sherlock Holmes plaque, marking the spot of the fictional confrontation with Moriarty. True enthusiasts often combine their visit with a stop at the Sherlock Holmes Museum in Meiringen, which displays memorabilia and recreations of scenes from the detective’s adventures.

For nature lovers, walking paths continue beyond the falls, winding through meadows and forests with panoramic views of the Bernese Alps. The lower paths are easily accessible, while upper trails reward those seeking a more active experience. Whether you come for the story or the scenery, this site is a great trip to go on from Interlaken for both families and explorers alike.

How to Get to Reichenbach Falls

The Reichenbach Falls are located about 1.5 km south of Meiringen in the Bernese Oberland. From Meiringen, it's a 20-minute walk or a 6-minute bus ride to the Reichenbach Funicular lower station. Regular trains connect Interlaken and Lucerne with Meiringen Railway Station via the Brünig line, operated by Zentralbahn. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

For those driving, parking is available near the funicular base station. From Interlaken, the journey takes about 30 minutes by car along Route 11.

Practical Tips for Visiting Reichenbach Falls

Best time to visit: Late May to early September, when water flow is at its most powerful.
Entrance fee in Euros: Approximately €9 round-trip (funicular ticket).
Opening hours: Daily, 9:00–17:30 (May–October; closed in winter).
Official website: https://www.meiringen.ch/en/reichenbachfall
How long to spend: 1–2 hours, including the funicular ride and viewpoints.
Accessibility: The funicular is accessible, though some upper paths are steep.
Facilities: Small café, restrooms, and souvenir shop at the base station.
Photography tip: Visit in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds; bring a lens cloth for spray.
Guided tours: Available seasonally through local tour operators or as part of Sherlock Holmes-themed excursions.
Nearby food options: Try the nearby Restaurant Reichenbach or Café Sherlock in Meiringen for Swiss fare and themed treats.

Nearby Attractions to Reichenbach Falls

Ballenberg Open-Air Museum – An open-air heritage site showcasing traditional Swiss houses and crafts.
Aare Gorge – A dramatic limestone canyon with walkways suspended above the rushing river.
Sherlock Holmes Museum – Located in Meiringen, celebrating the detective’s legacy with interactive exhibits.
Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge – A stunning natural gorge just a short drive away, perfect for scenic hikes.
Brienzersee (Lake Brienz) – A turquoise alpine lake offering boat rides and lakeside walks.

The Reichenbach Falls appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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