Gelterfingen: Discover hiking and history

Gelterfingen offers history, hiking trails and a gravel-bike loop as different ways to plan a stay. If you are looking for a hotel in Gelterfingen, you can choose what to focus on: Kramburg, a hike or a bike ride.

History and protected townscapes

Gelterfingen was first mentioned in writing in 1345 under the name Geltolfingen. The seat of the barons of Kramburg was located in the village. Kramburg Castle stands on a rocky promontory. Its ramparts and ditches mark out the site, of which only a few sections of wall remain. The Chramburg ruins are accessible only from above; check current trail conditions before visiting.

The protected categories in Gelterfingen include a protected townscape area, a protected landscape area, a designated dry habitat and an archaeological protection area. Townscape, landscape and archaeological heritage are therefore among the different features that distinguish the village.

Hiking and cycling

One specific hiking option is the easy 7.8-kilometre route from Kaufdorf via Gelterfingen and Gerzensee to Kirchdorf. Near Gelterfingen, it follows a narrow forest path, climbs up to the houses of Chramburg and then continues along the edge of the forest. Along the way, the hike near Gelterfingen offers views across the Gürbetal valley towards the Stockhorn-Gantrisch range and the Bernese Alps. To get to the start of this hike, take the train from Thun or Bern to Kaufdorf; return from Kirchdorf by bus.

A notice dated 26 May 2025 reported that the official hiking trail between Gelterfingen (Kramburg) and the Oelegraben near Heitere had reopened after rock-clearing work from 13 to 16 May 2025. The same notice warned of rockfall danger in the forest. Before setting out, check local notices for any later closures or hazards.

The “Where Spring Dwells” hike passes through a landscape between Eggenhorn and Schlatt, with many well-preserved hedgerows, as well as fruit trees, walnut trees and stately oaks along the way. Another option is the “Hike along Lake Gerzensee”: shortly after Gelterfingen, it follows a narrow forest path alongside a deeply incised ravine.

For a gravel-bike ride, the 34.74-kilometre Gürbetal gravel loop follows gravel and farm tracks at the foot of Belpberg, partly through the forest and along the Mösche, to Gelterfingen. On foot or by gravel bike, there are different types of trails and published route distances to choose from. Trail conditions may change along the routes; check local notices before hiking.

Getting there and farm shop

BERNMOBIL route 166 runs between Toffen railway station and Wichtrach village square. In Gelterfingen, it serves the Gelterfingen, Dorf and Gelterfingen, Schulhaus stops. Check the current timetable before travelling.

The Burebeck farm shop at Dorfstrasse 22 sells baked goods, various cheeses, pasta, Güetzi biscuits, Nidletäfeli caramels, jam, apple rings, honey and eggs from a self-service kiosk. It also offers seasonal vegetables and fruit, as well as fresh milk from its own cows. Check the opening arrangements before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Belp, Niedermuhlern, Rüti Bei Riggisberg, Burgistein, Uttigen, Toffen, Rüeggisberg, Kehrsatz.

For the higher-level travel overview: Seftigen.