Wilderswil – Gsteigwiler – Saxeten

Here you will experience the abundant flora and fauna in the Bernese Oberland: on a sun terrace slightly further up than Wilderswil, you will find the village of Gsteigwiler. Let your gaze sweep across the fruit tress, the rich flora and the lush flowery meadows or steal a glance in the direction of the Lütschine valley. Can you see the Lütschine’s water feature? The calm, gently broken by birds and the rustling of the leaves in the nearby forests, makes you forget you are living in the 21st century. Walk over the covered wooden bridge to the pretty church in Gsteig. You are bound to find your very own energy source here.

The trip by PostBus or car takes you through the untamed alpine high valley to the mountain village of Saxeten. Every curve on every walking trail opens up a new perspective of the spectacular mountain world. Challenging hiking tours, for example to the Morgenberghorn, open up views over the peaks to Lake Thun and down to the Central Plateau. In winter, the countryside is transformed into a fairytale world and you will fall in love with Saxeten valley and its authentic nature, at the very latest after a trip on the romantic sledging run through the forest.

Do you know the story of the Unspunnen ruin? It is not just the historical significance, but also the view that is impressive. More historical moments and traditions are presented in the village museum “Alte Mühle” (Old Mill) in Wilderswil. But the present too is attractive with exciting activities: experience the mountains from above on a round trip in a helicopter from Gsteigwiler and take in the impressive Swiss alpine world.

Pause for a moment to remember the victims of a tragic accident at the Saxetbach gorge. On 27th July 1999, 21 young people from Australia, New Zealand, England, South Africa and Switzerland were killed in a flash flood. The memorial park is located in the «Chammri» by the Saxetbach river, overlooking the Lütschine delta and Lake Brienz. The names of the victims are engraved in a large rock, while 21 posts with stones from the Saxetbach river honour the dead. A covered wooden panel provides a sheltered place for moving messages and recollections from relatives and the bereaved.

The resounding names of the numerous accommodation possibilities in Wilderswil, Gsteigwiler or Saxeten sound promising: they bear the German names for Alpine rose, Alpine view, Bear, Ibex and Stag… From family-run hotel, attractive B&B to a range of holiday apartments: you are bound to find just what you are looking for. The variety of accommodation offers you suitable, authentic/relaxing experiences with your family, intimate togetherness or with friends who share your passion for nature.