Experiences along the route

Bicycle touring is more than just riding your bike: slowing down, going exploring, buying a tasty picnic at a farm shop or stopping by a restaurant to enjoy a fresh meal made from regional ingredients – it’s all a part of it! Here’s everything you need to know about the best stops along the way.

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Experience site

Köniztal valley

The natural landscape of the Köniztal valley offers idyllic yet impressive surroundings. Anyone who wants a change of pace from pedalling so hard should definitely park their e-bike for a while and set off to explore on foot! Green signboards (only available in German an French) at the site provide fascinating information about the natural landscape, e.g. which stream flows mostly underground from here to Bern and which highlights await you along the route in both directions.

Chäs und Brot

As you near the hamlet of “Chäs und Brot”, be sure to look out for the next green signboard along the route. Once you find it, dismount from your bike, take a seat on the bench, let your gaze take in the expansive view on one side and observe the hamlet on the other. Of course, the sign (only available in German and French) also explains the history behind the hamlet’s unusual name...cheese and bread, anyone feeling hungry?

Lake Wohlen

As a local recreation area, a true paradise for water sports fans, habitat for many animals and part of the hydroelectric power plant, multifaceted Lake Wohlen is perfect for taking a longer break. Maybe one of the benches right beside the green signboards is even unoccupied. If you sit down on it, you will find not only a relaxing view but also interesting and entertaining facts (only available in German and French) about the surroundings, such as why beavers were almost wiped out in the 18th century. It's worth dropping by, getting off your bike and having a well-earned break!

Herrenschwandenhöhe pass

After riding all the way to the top of this pass, you are rewarded with a picturesque panorama. You can see not only the Niesen and the Stockhorn peaks but also the city of Bern. And what's better than barbecuing with a view? This magical combination is found at the Herrenschwandenhöhe barbecue area, which is perfectly equipped and very well maintained. Special thanks go to the Rüedi family for their efforts. PS. The Rüedis breed alpacas – read the green signboard to find out more about these fuzzy animals as well as interesting facts about the area (only available in German and French).

INFORAMA Rütti, Zollikofen

INFORAMA is full of information. Up-and-coming professionals are trained here, and those already employed can receive further education at its seven different locations. The various green signboards (only available in German and French) on site provide information about INFORAMA, peppered with exciting and fun facts that invite you to set off on a discovery tour around the premises. A working farm with a variety of animals, numerous fruit trees and even a beehive await you. Depending on which way you are riding the Grünes Band (Green Belt) route, either your arrival or onward journey will include a ride along the idyllic INFORAMA avenue, lined by apple trees.

Flugbrunnen

Fruit, fruit and more fruit! Fruit is the number one topic when you make a stop in Flugbrunnen. Luckily, you can not only learn more about Switzerland’s favourite fruit from the green signboard (only available in German and French), but also bite into a fresh and juicy apple on the spot – thanks to the farm shops right beside you!

Allmendingen

Your next stop? The next green signboard along the route! It’s located at Hüenliwald forest in Allmendingen, with a comfy bench included, so that you can enjoy the view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau in peace and comfort. Hüenliwald? Chicken forest? Yep, that’s actually the name of this forest. The signboard at the site will reveal even more hilarious Hüenli locations in the area. After you've puzzled over the origins of this name for a while, you will have rested up enough to continue your ride with renewed vigour.

Belper Giessen

The next adventure awaiting you is in the “Aarelandschaft Thun-Bern” nature reserve. There are many reasons why a stop here is worth your time. For one thing, you can marvel at the clear water of the Belper Giessen and take a short walk through the wetlands. You can also discover why the water is so crystal-clear. And of course, you will find inspiration for your onward journey on the signboard (available in German and French). What more could you want?

Restaurants and cafes

  • Fact

    In these difficult times, it’s worth stopping by restaurants, bistros and inns to enjoy a tasty menu made from local ingredients: most of them offer take-away or are re-opening their outdoor spaces and terraces. For further information, please contact the eateries directly.

Restaurant zum Schloss at the Kulturhof Schloss Köniz

If you're in the mood for a longer break and some refreshments before getting back on your bike, be sure to stop off at Restaurant zum Schloss. The menu features seasonal dishes prepared with local ingredients and great attention to detail. The products used in the kitchen are supplied by farms, butchers, and other shops in the surrounding area. And it’s not uncommon to find vegetables and fruit on your plate that came from the restaurant's own garden. You can enjoy the delectable food in the charming restaurant with its castle-like atmosphere or outside in the courtyard under the large lime tree in the warmer summer months.

Hotel and Restaurant Bären, Oberbottigen

One of the two restaurants on the Grünes Band (Green Belt) named for bears is found in Oberbottigen. The Mettler family is now the second generation to run this charming country inn bursting with warm hospitality. The peaceful location in Oberbottigen is nevertheless close to the city and is perfect for taking an extended breather. The Hotel and Restaurant Bären is not directly on the route, so be sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss the turn-off. And why is adding an extra 250 metres to your ride actually worth it? Because of the house speciality! Diced beef, veal and pork tenderloin in a creamy mushroom sauce seasoned with Jack Daniels – cheers, errr... bon appetit!

Landgasthof Bären, Frauenkappelen

One of the two restaurants along the Grünes Band (Green Belt) named for bears is this one in Frauenkappelen. If you are a fan of familiar comfort foods from “Granny’s” handwritten recipe book, you should definitely stop off here. The kitchen team uses high-quality, seasonal products that come from the region whenever possible. The traditional dishes are served in the cosy country inn or on the peaceful terrace under cool, shady trees in summer. Yumm, braised beef! Or perhaps a “Rösti” potato pancake or crispy, battered whitefish? One thing is for sure – you’ll be ready to pedal with gusto again after this pit stop!

Bogen 17 Kiosque, Wohlen b. Bern

You'll find Bern's most iconic lakeside pub – Bogen 17 – directly under the Wohlei bridge. An eclectic crowd meets here under bright awnings and fairy lights. While stand-up paddleboards and rowboats glide across the water in the background, the kitchen crew in the blue container whip up creative dishes – with sizzling passion, team spirit and a focus on regional products. The lettuce and trout, for example, come from Hofen, the vegetables from the farm on Lake Wohlen, the beef from Schüpfen, and the rice from the Maggia valley in Ticino.

Restaurant Alte Mühle INFORAMA

Would you like to take a longer break before continuing your journey? What about a delicious lunch, coffee and a croissant, or an aperitif? INFORAMA's own self-service restaurant, “Alte Mühle”, offers a weekly special, various salads and other delicacies served buffet-style from Monday to Friday. Only Swiss products are used to prepare the dishes, and the wine list features vintages from Swiss wineries. How about a small glass of Epesses from the Lavaux region on Lake Geneva, for example?

Restaurant Rössli, Habstetten

The Rössli Habstetten is a cosy country inn serving Swiss and Italian specialities and is located just a few metres off the E-bike Route 888 – Grünes Band Bern (Bern's Green Belt). Whether it's “spaghetti al pomodoro e basilico” or a “Rösti” potato pancake with bacon and fried egg, Marcolino and Manuela Esteves and their team will conjure up the perfect dish for every visitor to their restaurant. In addition, there is always a fresh weekly menu from Tuesday to Friday – with both a meat and vegetarian option available. This means everyone can recharge before it's time to get back in the saddle!

Kaffeehaus Stettler café, Stettlen

It may not be directly on the route, but depending on the direction of the wind, you can simply follow the tempting scent of aromatic coffee. You will find the charming Kaffeehaus Stettler right next to the level crossing in the old railway station in Deisswil. Everything is mixed and brewed with a lot of passion here. For their own coffee blend, they order raw beans from Central and South America as well as India through a Swiss trader and then have them roasted at a local, small-scale roastery. The baristas are experts of their trade, just as they should be. Their coffee creations inspire all fans of Espressi, Cappuccini & Co.

Restaurant Jägerheim, Belp

This restaurant is located in the middle of a nature reserve and is famous far beyond the region's borders for its wild game and fish specialities. The dishes are served with seasonal salads (what else would you expect?). When the weather is nice, you can enjoy your meal on the shady terrace under the chestnut trees. After eating, take the opportunity to let your food settle during a relaxing walk along the crystal-clear waters of the Belper Giessen. Why is the water so clear? Find out by reading the green signboards.

Bistro Zät Sibe café and bakery, Kehrsatz

With sandwiches, speciality roasted almonds, croissants and an assortment of gourmet coffee, “Zät Sibe” in Kehrsatz is a café and bakery all in one. It’s ideal for a short stopover, to shop for a picnic along the route, or to enjoy a treat on the spot. How about a latte and homemade vanilla custard slice on the charming terrace, for example? You’ll be full of energy afterwards to keep on biking!

Farm and village stores

Burren Bindenhaus strawberry farm, Köniz municipality

This stopover is not directly on the route, but 200 metres of extra pedalling is well worth it for all strawberry lovers! A huge strawberry field awaits you behind the Burren Bindenhaus, where you can pick the popular red berries yourself during the summer season. Perfect for a snack to go – or for a sweet souvenir! The family-operated business, which is now in the second generation, belongs to the hamlet of Bindenhaus.

Königs Biohof organic farm shop, Oberbottigen

The selection of products at the König organic farm shop may be small but it is very, very special. Delectable fruit and vegetables, aromatic herbs and fresh eggs – all certified organic – can be purchased here 24/7 thanks to the self-service option. It is also the hottest insider's tip during the summer. The farm shop is located in an old vaulted cellar, which means it is wonderfully cool inside. And the fountain in front of the farm is an extra bonus! You can fill up your water bottle with fresh, cool water, while the benches right next to it invite you to sit down for a while – the ideal spot for a short stopover.

Herrenmatt-Hof farm shop, Riedbach

The shelves of the farm shop right next to the small organic farm are restocked daily and with loving care by the owners. Savoury cheeses, delicious meat specialities (how about a mouthwatering garlic sausage for your picnic, for example?) and homemade jams are available, as are eggs, fresh vegetables and seasonal fruit. The little shop is open 24/7, and customers can serve themselves. Before getting back on your bike, take a seat on the bench outside and enjoy your freshly bought picnic with a view of the beautiful farm garden.

Dorfladen Frauenkappelen village shop

The Dorfladen Frauenkappelen modern village shop often smells more like a bakery because, in addition to fruit, vegetables, a wide range of cheeses, and delicious meat specialities, you can also find freshly baked bread and handmade sandwiches here. All of the products and ingredients come from the region. If you have time for a leisurely break, you can order coffee and cake or enjoy a glass of white wine and an aperitif platter – right on site thanks to the shop’s small terrace with wooden tables and chairs. Definitely worth getting off your bike for!

Hofladen Holzer farm shop, Frauenkappelen

If the Hofladen Holzer farm shop had to be summed up in one word, it would probably be “homemade”. The Holzers are the third generation to run this family business, and their delicious products are on sale in the farm shop. The large assortment includes fruit, vegetables, eggs and lots of homemade products such as pasta and jams. How does freshly baked bread for a picnic en route sound? And those who want to take a longer break from cycling can enjoy an aperitif platter or order the homemade farm ice cream, which is the perfect way to cool off when it’s hot before you hit the road again.

Pfister’s Molki shop, Zollikofen

Local is how we like to do it: Whether it's meat from the Aeschlimann butcher shop in Uettligen or Bigler's butchery in Büren, bread from the Leuenberger bakery in Zollikofen, or syrup from Siroupier de Berne – there's nothing at Pfister’s Molki that doesn't come from Bern. The dairy’s own products are a highlight, of course (farm ice cream, yummy!), and there can be up to 150 types of cheese in the refrigerated display case depending on the season!

Hofladen Rütti INFORAMA

INFORAMA also has a small farm shop, which is operated with great passion by the tenant farmers, the Emmenegger family. For example, they turn the harvest from the farm's many fruit trees – mainly apples – into dried apple rings and sweet cider. Potatoes, meat specialities, jam, yoghurt and freshly baked braided bread can also be found on the shelves – everything seasonal, of course. Yum! And speaking of yum, homemade ice cream, various chocolate creations and creamy pastries are also sold here. So, if you still need an energy boost for the rest of the trip, you should definitely make a pit stop here.

Hofladen Bergmann farm shop, Bolligen

If you enjoy having a large selection to choose from, this is the place for you. At the Hofladen Bergmann farm shop you can find everything that’s in season, from fresh apples, pears and cherries to walnuts, pumpkins and mirabelles, to plums, damsons and quinces. Strawberries are their speciality, however, which is why a visit in June always pays off. In addition to the vegetables and fruit grown directly on the farm, they also offer products from the region, which all have labels indicating their origin. So, there's everything you need for the perfect picnic!

Stettler Obst farm shop, Bolligen

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Sweet, tart, red or green – the choice is yours and it's not an easy one. There are over 40 different apple varieties grown on the Stettler farm. The family also cultivates pear, plum and walnut trees, and even raises their own nectarines and peaches! In addition to fresh fruit, the quaint farm shop also stocks dried fruit on its shelves. So, if you need an energy boost, treat yourself to a sack full of tasty items for a picnic. And for some sweet liquid refreshment, there's tangy apple juice fresh from the cider press.

Dorfladen Allmendingen village shop

The popular village shop in Allmendingen offers whatever you might need on a bike ride – and naturally everything is local and seasonal. We particularly recommend the eye-catching and extremely varied selection of cheeses on display! Personal contact with customers as well as producers in the immediate neighbourhood is very important to the staff at this quintessential “corner shop” – which makes every visit a special shopping experience. Perfect for a quick stop during your cycling tour!

Häberlihof farm shop, Allmendingen

Whether it’s leafy lettuce, sweet apples or crunchy carrots, pretty much everything that is in season is sold directly from the farm. The number of tempting products on the shelves can vary depending on the season, but everything is always organic and regional. The most practical thing are the opening hours at the Häberlihof farm shop: it’s never closed! (open 24/7). Speaking of open, the Häberli family are always happy to welcome visitors to their heritage farmhouse or well-kept barn. And there are even two garden chairs and a little table in front of the house for a longer break.

Rubigenhof Fischzucht fish farm, Rubigen

Fresh fish are not only found in Swiss lakes and rivers – trout, char and rainbow trout are also sold fresh at Gassers in Rubigen. The farm shop is located right next to the fish farm, where a top priority is placed on organic production. With a package of smoked salmon, some cream cheese and a crusty hunk of bread, you have a delicious salmon sandwich for your next roadside break. There are even Simmental beers available for beer fans who are already planning afternoon aperitifs!

Wälchlis Hoflade (Soulfarm) farm shop, Kehrsatz

It's not directly on the route, but the extra 500 metres are worth it – we promise! Wälchlis Hoflade farm shop offers everything a hungry cyclist could wish for, from preserves and sweet cider to dried fruit, beef, syrup and jams. Everything that is sold at Wälchlis in Kehrsatz is seasonal, fresh and lovingly produced on the farm. A visit to the farm shop is a particular treat on Fridays and Saturdays, when the air is full of the smell of freshly baked bread, braided sweet bread, and pastries. The family is also full of ideas on how to expand their selection, so stay tuned to see what will be offered next.

Grill and picnic areas

Wohlen b. Bern barbecue area

When the weather is nice, it's not easy to find a free spot on the shores of popular Lake Wohlen. If you prefer to enjoy a far-off view of the lake, get back on your bike and ride to the nearby Kirchgasse barbecue area. You’ll find it located slightly above the lake and right on the edge of the forest. The barbecue area is maintained by the municipality and is equipped with three large tables with benches and a fire pit. There is no firewood provided but you can fetch your own in the forest. Just a few minutes' walk from this secluded spot brings you to an old mill with an imposing water wheel that now produces eco-friendly electricity.

Gümligen barbecue area

Anybody feel like a barbecue while on the road? It's best to buy the ingredients along the way and plan a stopover at the edge of Tannacker Park in Gümligen. This picturesque barbecue area is equipped with two large tables and benches. The roof protecting the supply of firewood is very practical, as nothing will stop you from grilling – not even a light rain shower. For an extra adventure, the wood can also be collected in the nearby forest.

Bicycle stores

Bike shop one80, Köniz

If only space wasn't so limited on your bike, you could spend even more time perusing the farm and village shops! But don’t worry, at one80 you’re sure to find a suitable bicycle basket or bag for sale, along with everything else that a cyclist’s heart desires, from spare parts to clothing and services. The shop is located in the centre of Köniz, between the Gurten and Ulmizerberg mountains. Thanks to the team’s meticulous service, a bike breakdown is only half as bad, because after a competent realignment, your two-wheeler will be as good as new and ready to get back on the road.

Velo-Fachgeschäft Leuthold, Zollikofen

The Veloladen Leuthold in Zollikofen is a one-stop shop for all your bicycle needs. A visit is particularly worthwhile if your own backpack has no more room for purchases from the tempting farm and village shops along the way. You’ll find everything you need from expert and personalised advice to accessories, clothing and tune-up services. The team attaches great importance to sustainability and works according to the motto “Repairing is the future”. Had a breakdown? No problem! After a tune-up at Leutholds, your bike will be as good as new and ready to hit the road again.

Where to stay

Hotel and Restaurant Bären, Oberbottigen

One of the two restaurants on the Grünes Band (Green Belt) named for bears is found in Oberbottigen. The Mettler family is now the second generation to run this charming country inn bursting with warm hospitality. The peaceful location in Oberbottigen is nevertheless close to the city and is perfect for taking an extended breather. The Hotel and Restaurant Bären is not directly on the route, so be sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss the turn-off. And why is adding an extra 250 metres to your ride actually worth it? Because of the house speciality! Diced beef, veal and pork tenderloin in a creamy mushroom sauce seasoned with Jack Daniels – cheers, errr... bon appetit!

Landgasthof Bären, Frauenkappelen

One of the two restaurants along the Grünes Band (Green Belt) named for bears is this one in Frauenkappelen. If you are a fan of familiar comfort foods from “Granny’s” handwritten recipe book, you should definitely stop off here. The kitchen team uses high-quality, seasonal products that come from the region whenever possible. The traditional dishes are served in the cosy country inn or on the peaceful terrace under cool, shady trees in summer. Yumm, braised beef! Or perhaps a “Rösti” potato pancake or crispy, battered whitefish? One thing is for sure – you’ll be ready to pedal with gusto again after this pit stop!

More

Kulturhof Schloss Köniz

You can also tour Schloss Köniz (Köniz Castle) – ideal for anyone who wants a dose of culture along the way. The castle's Kulturhof enjoys a reputation that extends beyond the region's borders. It’s not surprising, as this versatile cultural centre connects city with countryside and creates a space for enriching encounters. The event programme features dance performances, readings, theatre and magic shows. But there's more than just hocus-pocus here! You can expect moving experiences full of music, humour and poetry. The Kulturhof offers moments that will amaze you and that are sure to be saved in your “favourite memories” folder.

Lörmoos, Wohlen b. Bern

Who’s up for a small challenge? The Lörmoos raised bog is not easy to find, but this short detour is well worth it. When you come to the main road, turn towards the forest and ride along the road for roughly 200 metres. You will know you have arrived when you spot the “Lörmoos” sign! Take a breather, park your e-bike and follow the narrow path to the moor. Now all you have to do is start enjoying yourself. And in case there are any botany fans around, you will find various QR codes at Lörmoos that reveal more about the impressive and diverse flora.

Büsselimoos, Kirchlindach

"It may not be right on the route, but this nature reserve is ideal for those who want to swap their bikes for an idyllic walk. Here’s how to do it: Ride to the car park at the edge of the Burrishus forest and from there follow the brown sign for about 900 metres and then take a slight right turn until you reach the “Büsselimoos” sign. You can leave your e-bike here. Covering 3.5 hectares, the Büsselimoos may be one of the smallest nature reserves in the canton, but it is unique and particularly worthy of protection because of the large number of Scheidigem Wolltras growing here. The heads of these plants look like bushy balls, and Bern locals have lovingly nicknamed them “Büüsseli” – which is how the moor also got its name.

Botanical nature trail at HAFL university, Zollikofen

When you arrive, be sure to take a look at the HAFL signboard and keep your eyes open for the botanical nature trail. You’ll be surprised to find that it’s located on the roof of a building, where you can enjoy a close-up look at the plant diversity as well as an expansive panoramic view. Students learn using extremely practical methods at the BFH HAFL (Bern University of Applied Sciences for Agriculture, Forestry and Food) thanks to cultivated fields, a greenhouse with exotic plants, and arable and biodiversity areas (it even has its own forest!).