Oberthal: Hiking, Landscapes and History

Oberthal is known for its green, hilly landscape, which is reminiscent of some parts of the Emmental. Hiking, traces of history and leisure activities offer a variety of experiences. When planning your trip, both the specific route and travel arrangements are important.

Hiking around Blasenfluh

The Oberthal hiking guide includes six hiking routes. One of them leads from Moosegg towards Blasenfluh: the signposted Alpine Panorama Trail No. 3 follows this direction. The Moosegg–Blasenfluh hike is classified as moderately difficult and has an ascent of 162 metres and a descent of 162 metres. Some sections are steep and slippery; caution and good footwear are recommended. The route to Blasenfluh passes the Waldhäusern inn and then continues into the forest. There, the forest section follows a ridge through coniferous woodland; steep slopes and nutrient-poor ridges shape the landscape.

Blasenfluh lies at an elevation of 1,118 metres and is the highest point in the municipalities of Oberthal, Signau and Lauperswil. A panoramic information board on Blasenfluh provides information about the municipalities and their history. From there, the eastern Emmental lies below the trail. At some viewpoints in Oberthal, you can see both the mountains of the Bernese Oberland and the Jura range. Another signposted route is the Heart Route, which follows traffic-free paths around Blasenfluh.

Möschberg and Lychleustein

The hamlet of Möschberg lies at an elevation of 853 metres. It is home to impressive farmhouses and a seminar hotel of the same name. Möschberg was first documented in 1544, with four houses, and is considered the birthplace of organic farming in the German-speaking world. This hamlet thus brings together historical references and an agricultural character.

The granite stone Lychleustein lies at the southern edge of the road from Möschberg to Alterswil. It is classified as a cup-marked stone and a resting stone for the dead. It was once a pillar 1.6 to 1.8 metres high, bearing the inscription “1755 HS”. Today, the stone has two round holes, one of which goes all the way through. According to an old custom, passing funeral processions would stop here. The stone’s shape, inscription and traditional function give the site several distinct historical associations.

Leisure and accommodation

The Bauplatz leisure area has several fire pits, as well as tables and benches for a picnic or a barbecue. Visitors can also enjoy an Alpine panorama there. The area offers a different kind of stop from the hiking trails, with fire pits, seating and views at its centre.

A 2021 municipal FAQ describes the Oberthal pump track as a free sports and leisure facility for all age groups, which can be ridden on all kinds of bikes; helmets are compulsory. Check the facility’s current status and applicable rules before visiting.

Getting there and choosing a hotel

Since 1871, the main access route to Oberthal has come from Zäziwil. Oberthal has no longer been connected to public transport since July 2014; check current travel arrangements before your trip. The Moosegg–Blasenfluh hike is a separate matter: its starting point, Moosegg, can be reached by public transport on weekends and public holidays.

The Bio-Garni-Hotel Möschberg welcomes individual guests seeking relaxation in peaceful surroundings at the entrance to the Emmental. The Möschberg Hotel serves freshly prepared meals made with organic, predominantly regional produce. The hotel is directly accessible by car, with parking spaces in front of the building. This provides practical information for choosing accommodation, including the type of guests welcomed, dining and access by car.

Discover more destinations: Grosshöchstetten, Konolfingen, Walkringen, Münsingen, Zäziwil, Aeschlen, Kiesen, Oberdiessbach

Go to the regional travel overview: Konolfingen.