From the lush green alpine pastures to the snow-laden valley, every season offers a special experience. As the alpine summer draws to a close and autumn arrives, the traditional "Chästeilet" takes place and the rutting starts. The Justistal promises sheer relaxation, tradition and nature.
Visitors can hike through the 7.5-km Justistal, passing fir trees and idyllic alpine farms as they follow the course of the Grönbach. On one side you see as far as the Sigriswilgrat ridge, with the Güggisgrat ridge on the other. Be sure to pick up delicious alpine cheese from one of the nine farms and cooperatives. A wonderful tour leads you through the tranquil Justis valley and over Sichle into Eriz.
Fancy a cook-out at a barbecue point, or lunch in an alpine cabin? Stop over at Lilis Beizli at the Grosser Mittelberg and refresh yourself by drinking from the cool fountain and treating yourself to reportedly the best "Chässchnitte" in the world.
The "Chästeilet" cheese apportioning ceremony has been a tradition of the Justistal every September since 1739. In this time-honoured ceremony, Swiss cheese produced over the alpine summer from the milk of 250 cows is divided according to a prescribed ritual.
Visiting the "Chästeilet"
Take a bus from Sigriswil to the Justistal. Since the event is highly popular, it is advisable to get there early. The apportioning starts around 11:00 at the Spycher (storehouses) above the Grönhütte. In the afternoon, herdsmen lead their cattle and goats back to the farm in a ceremonial drive.
Watching the rutting
From early September to early October, visitors can observe rutting as scores of stags move from around the region to the Justistal. In the company of a local wildlife expert, you will hear the bellowing of the stags. With luck, you will also witness herds of females or even fights between dominant males for the favours of females.
The Justistal is a paradise for cross-country skiers and winter hikers alike. You can traverse the 12-km route from the Grönhütte to Hindersberg and back on cross-country skis, or walk a well-signposted winter trail. Whether you start out on foot or cross-country skis, you will enjoy views of snowy alpine meadows, firs and the surrounding peaks along the way.
Hike past traditional alpine farms
Almost 300-year-old Justistal "Chästeilet" ceremony, plus cattle drive in September
Hirschbrunft von Anfang September bis Anfang Oktober
Idyllische Langlaufloipe durchs tiefverschneite Justistal
Check the weather conditions in advance
Good footwear is recommended for the Justistal
Getting up early for the "Chästeilet" pays dividends
Observe the rutting with a native wildlife specialist