Explore six captivating hikes in the Bernese Oberland, ranging from challenging Alpine treks to discovering secluded valleys.
In the heart of the picturesque Bernese Oberland, nestled between the iconic Jungfrau region and the charming village of Gstaad, lies a treasure trove of hiking trails catering to all levels of experience. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice, the region promises an unforgettable adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For moderate hikes, the Choleren Gorge near Adelboden offers a 7.8 km circular route showcasing a dramatic natural gorge, accessible from the village of Adelboden. Another highlight is the Blumental Panorama Trail (Mürren), an easy 3.2 km trail descending from Allmendhubel funicular to Mürren, offering great views of the Jungfrau massif. The Giessbach Falls Trail, with its mostly flat, lakeside path passing by a fairytale castle, is an easy hike suitable for most visitors.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Hardergrat Trail and Schynige Platte Trail offer thrilling ridge hikes with spectacular panoramic views. The Via Alpina Bernese Oberland trek, an 8-day self-guided trek through stunning landscapes along the famous Via Alpina route, is another exciting option for experienced hikers.
Accessing these trails is made easy by the region's excellent public transportation system. Mürren and Grindelwald can be reached by train and cable cars/funiculars, while Interlaken serves as a major hub with parts of the Hardergrat trail accessible from nearby stations. Many hikes start in or near alpine villages like Adelboden, Mürren, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Interlaken, which are accessible by public transport or car.
One unique hiking experience is the W35 trail from Lauenen to the fondue caquelon, a 5.2-mile moderate trail taking hikers to a giant hilltop caquelon overlooking waterfalls and the valley, perfect for a fondue picnic made with local cheeses. Hikers can reserve a pre-prepared 'fondue backpack' the day before their hike, containing all the ingredients and tools to make a classic or truffle fondue.
The W29 La Videmanette loop, with a distance of 4 miles, is another moderate trail offering awe-inspiring views of the Bernese and Vaudois Alps, as well as Gstaad's famous dolomites. The walk starts at Schönried train station and includes several mountain restaurants such as Nüjenberg, Hüsliberg, MUMA, and Site Alp. The uphill hike from Schönried to the Rellerligrat viewpoint, with a distance of 10 miles, is considered difficult.
Site Alp, a highlight of the trail, is home to a farm shop and show dairy run by the Santschi family, where visitors can see how local cow milk is processed into Bernese Alp cheese, raclette, yogurt, and more. Site Alp also offers the option to rent a scooter for a speedy descent to Zweisimmen station - cash is required.
The route from the Rellerligrat viewpoint continues on to the Sparenmoos, a high plateau in the Gstaad region known for its serene rolling hills and panoramic views. La Videmanette also boasts a restaurant with a sunny terrace and the nearby village of Saanen hosts concerts, markets, and festivals during the summer.
For more information on planning a trip to this hiking paradise, visit the websites gstaad.ch and adelboden-lenk-kandersteg.ch/en, as well as our website Traveller. Happy hiking!
Experience the mesmerizing Blumental Panorama Trail in Mürren, a leisurely 3.2 km hike offering magnificent views of the Jungfrau massif, perfect for home-and-garden enthusiasts and new travelers. Alternatively, for a more challenging lifestyle pursuit, the Via Alpina Bernese Oberland trek, spanning 8 days, provides an exhilarating journey through the heart of the picturesque forests and iconic Swiss landscapes, catering to seasoned travelers.
