Wattenwil: Hiking Trails, Landscapes and Village History

Wattenwil’s topography comprises the flat Gürbe alluvial plain with the village centre, as well as the districts of Gmeis, Mettlen and the higher-lying Rain (Grundbach). When looking for a hotel in Wattenwil, you might consider whether you’d like to combine your stay primarily with hiking, architectural heritage or one of the recurring events.

Landscapes and Hiking Trails

Grundbach is elevated and a popular recreational destination and excursion spot for the cities of Thun and Bern. As a sunny terrace that is usually free of fog, the district offers views of the Lake Thun region and the Bernese Alps. The Burgerwald is also a place to enjoy outdoor activities: in both summer and winter, it invites visitors to take extended walks and hikes as far as the Gurnigel area.

A longer route follows the Gürbe Whitewater Trail from Wattenwil to the Berghaus Gurnigel; the hike takes about 4¼ hours. There are places to swim along the river. The trail passes through the wild Gürbe Gorge, where more than a hundred wooden and concrete barriers slow the force of the Gürbe. Those travelling with a pushchair will find a suitable option on the lowest section of the Gürbe Whitewater Trail.

For a different perspective on the landscape, the barbecue site in Heimenried has a special location: it lies almost on the municipal boundary between Wattenwil and Burgistein. The site cannot be rented but is available for use. Wattenwil therefore offers options ranging from a longer hike to the Gurnigel area to a place that can be used without a rental.

Architectural Heritage and Local History

Wattenwil’s older buildings include the alpine house types known as Tätschhaus and Länderhaus, as well as the Mittellandhaus. These are joined by timber-framed buildings dating from around the turn of the last century. The rectory and church are of cultural interest. The different names offer a glimpse of the range of traditional architectural forms, from alpine house types to timber-framed buildings.

The church is open during the day and lies on the Way of St James; pilgrims can get a stamp for their pilgrim passport there. A visit thus offers a direct connection to architectural heritage and the pilgrimage route. Wattenwil was first mentioned in a document in the mid-13th century under the name “Watinwile”. Finds and excavations also suggest that the area was settled during the Bronze Age and Roman period. The written record and archaeological evidence therefore date back to different periods.

Recurring Events

The Wattenwil fair takes place every year on the first Wednesday in October. Around 200 market traders offer a wide variety of goods for sale. In the evening, various clubs and restaurants invite visitors to relax and spend time together. The market day thus combines the market with a shared evening get-together.

The national holiday celebration also has a fixed date: it takes place every year on 31 July. Traditionally, a procession with torches and lanterns is held. Participants are offered a bratwurst. The Fête de la Musique is open to the public and is organised by the municipal council every year on 21 June. Musicians and singers perform there free of charge. The three events therefore differ both in their dates and their format: market stalls and an evening programme in October, a procession and refreshments on 31 July, and music on 21 June.

Discover more destinations: Riggisberg, Gerzensee, Burgistein, Kirchdorf, Rüeggisberg, Kehrsatz, Niedermuhlern, Toffen

For the overview of the wider area: Seftigen.