Right on Bern’s doorstep, there’s a beautiful hilly area that stretches all the way from Belp to Schwarzsee. The region is 400 square kilometres in size and comprises 20 municipalities. Characterized by large forests and idyllic villages and protected by the impressive Gantrisch range, the area was certified as a Regional Nature Park by the Swiss Confederation in 2012. Be it rare animals or plants: protecting biodiversity is a top priority. This is achieved, for example, by preserving the natural night landscape (i.e. darkness), which is extremely important for the animals that live here so their day-night rhythm is not disturbed.
In addition to the beautiful landscapes, it is the countless hiking and biking routes and running trails that bring hikers and sports enthusiasts to the Nature Park in the warmer months. From flat to steep and from asphalt to gravel – the many roads and paths through the gentle hills or along the Gürbe river are diverse. How about a bike tour around the “Guggershörnli” (Guggershorn hill) or a hike along the Gantrisch Panorama Trail? Both options will reward you with a breathtaking view of the Bernese and Fribourg Alps. In the spring, gorgeous "Buntbrachene" (meadows covered in flowers) give the landscape of the Nature Park a burst of colour, and in autumn, all eyes are on the treetops in red, orange, and gold.
There’s a lot to do in the winter months, too: Cross-country skiing fans can enjoy the 45 kilometres of excellent trails on 1,450 to 1,650 meters above sea level, where snow is guaranteed and you have the best view of the snow-capped mountain peaks and winter wonderland below. The soft powder snow is also popular with snowshoe enthusiasts and there are many tours to choose from. Our tip: the popular Selibüel-Winterwanderweg (Selibüel route).
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SchneeSelitalSince 1956, countless girls and boys have learnt to ski in the Selital ski area between Bern, Thun and Freiburg. And families still love the SchneeSelital ski area today.Winter ActivitiesSchneeSelitalMore -
Cross-country skiing center GantrischA stone’s throw from Bern, the cross-country skiing center in the Nature Park Gantrisch provides over 45 km of perfectly groomed cross-country trails at an elevation of 1,450 to 1,650 m above sea level.Winter ActivitiesCross-country skiing center GantrischMore -
Mountain Lake in WinterThe frozen Schwarzsee mountain lake is one of the highlights of the Schwarzsee region.Winter ActivitiesMountain Lake in WinterMore -
Schwarzsee Ice PalacesIn a small forest, not far from Schwarzsee each winter a charming little ice paradise is built in the cold winter months.Winter Activities, Trips & Recreation, Bern for FamiliesSchwarzsee Ice PalacesMore
Culinary delights
Resting and restoring your strength is vital when out and about. A hearty dinner in the Alphütte Obernünenen hut (1,689 m.a.s.l.) after a long hike, a glass of white wine from the hotel's vineyard in the Schloss Gerzensee Hotel after a bike tour, or a pizza straight out of the pizza oven at the Hotel am Schwarzsee after a relaxed walk – the Gantrisch Nature Park offers plenty of options when it comes to food and drink.
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Fact
If it promises Gantrisch, it delivers Gantrisch. Be it flour from the renowned Dittligmühle mill in Längenbühl, creamy cheese from the Aeby family’s cheese dairy in Plaffeien, or sweet honey from the Höhener honey farm in Mühleturnen: at least 80 percent of the ingredients used for the products must come from the park.
Events
Would you like to celebrate a traditional Alpabzug or visit a music festival with a colourful mix of musical styles? Then off you go to the Gantrisch!
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Fact
Due to the current situation, some rules and restrictions apply. Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Office of Public Health. The organizer will also provide information on whether or not the event will take place.
Activities
Swinging from tree to tree like Tarzan, gazing up into the starry night sky, entering a fairytale world made of ice and light – there’s a lot to discover at Gantrisch Nature Park.
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Gäggersteg BoardwalkEven from a distance, the boardwalk trail at the foot of the Gägger in Rüschegg stands out sharply against the background of green forest. Offering splendid views of the Gantrisch mountain range, interesting facts about biodiversity in the forest reserve, and fun puzzles for younger hikers, the trail guarantees an exciting outing every time.HikingGäggersteg BoardwalkMore -
Gantrisch Rope ParkSwing and climb among the treetops at the Gantrisch Rope Park. There’s so much to discover! A thrilling experience for the entire family awaits in the Längeney Forest.Adventure & Sport, Bern for Families, Excursions in good weatherGantrisch Rope ParkMore -
Schwarzsee Witch’s Trail (Häxewääg)On the Witch’s Trail around Schwarzsee’s mountain lake, a fearsome dragon wakes from his lengthy sleep, and long-forgotten myths are brought back to life. The adventure trail leads along the shoreline through a magical landscape set against a picturesque mountain backdrop. Fascinated children, encounters with mythical creatures, an entertaining hike and fun and games are guaranteed!Trips & Recreation, Bern for FamiliesSchwarzsee Witch’s Trail (Häxewääg)More -
Klettersteig GantrischAccess to the via ferrata takes you through the Gurnigel watershed; the start is just below the Leiterenpass. The climbing distance is 220 meters.Adventure & SportKlettersteig GantrischMore -
Summer Toboggan Run, SchwarzseeThe toboggan run is approx. 1000 meters long, including the ascent.Adventure & Sport, Bern for FamiliesSummer Toboggan Run, SchwarzseeMore -
Uecht ObservatorySixty years ago an engineer discovered an outstanding location on the hill just above Niedermuhlern – a site that provides a fantastic view far into the distance and the stars.Trips & RecreationUecht ObservatoryMore
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