Steffisburg: Culture, the Zulg and Nature

The Zulg flows through the heart of Steffisburg as a mountain river and joins the Aare at Heimberg. Together with historic buildings, arts and cultural activities, and the surrounding landscape, it shapes different aspects of the town. If you are looking for a hotel in Steffisburg, these different themes can guide your travel plans: would you like to explore the village’s history, visit an exhibition, or set aside time by the river and outdoors?

Village Church and Höchhus: Experience History

The village church was first mentioned in historical records in 1224. Archaeological excavations indicate that an earlier Christian place of worship was built on the site as early as the 7th or 8th century. The present-day church was built in 1681: Abraham Dünz I designed it as a longitudinal Protestant preaching hall. Its acoustics help make it a popular venue for concerts. The building’s history thus brings together early evidence of Christianity, Protestant architecture and a concert venue that is still in use today.

The present form of the Grosse Höchhus dates to 1526, and it is one of the few surviving rural manor houses of that period in the Canton of Bern. The Canton of Bern’s building inventory lists it as a late medieval manor house of national importance. You can also spot a detail from the 19th century: restored remains of a pottery kiln are visible beneath a glass floor in the restaurant. The combination of architectural history and preserved craftsmanship makes the Höchhus a destination in its own right for anyone interested in cultural history.

Art and Changing Exhibitions

The “zur alten Töpferei” museum opened in the municipality of Steffisburg in summer 2023. Its focus is on maiolica works. The Hans & Marlis Suter Collection has a different focus: it comprises 20th-century Swiss art, with a particular connection to the Thun region and the Canton of Bern. Temporary exhibitions from this collection are held occasionally in the attic of the Höchhus, featuring paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures. As these exhibitions are held only from time to time, it is a good idea to check for current dates before planning a visit.

The Kunsthaus Steffisburg association also organises cultural events and activities in public spaces. This extends the cultural offering beyond historic buildings and collections. Visitors planning their trip around art and history can treat these different offerings as separate points of interest, without combining them into a set route.

The Zulg, Hiking Trails and Orchids

The Zulg river area is recommended for nature play, picnics and making use of fire pits. At the Zulgboden barbecue spot, there is an official grill and picnic area with tables, seating and toilet facilities. Access by motor vehicle is not permitted; parking is available on both sides of the Gummsteg. This distinction is important when planning: the spot offers a place to take a break by the river, but driving to the barbecue area is not allowed.

Another way to explore the landscape is the “Abenteuer Zulggraben” route. It starts near the Steffisburg/Post bus stop and heads upstream along a winding stretch of the Zulg through mixed woodland. The entire route follows marked hiking trails. Wild orchids grow in Steffisburg’s forests, along paths and even in built-up areas. A survey recorded seven species at more than 60 sites; the number of sites may change over time. The wild orchids found here are protected throughout Switzerland.

Outdoor Pool and Practical Information

The seasonal Steffisburg outdoor pool is located at the mouth of the narrow Zulg Valley. It offers spacious areas for visitors of all ages and a 52-metre water slide, which opened in 1986. Check the exact dates of the season before your visit. There is ample bicycle and car parking nearby; public transport stops are about a five-minute walk away.

Other activities in Steffisburg include swimming, mountain biking, horse riding, walking and hiking. A guided boat trip on the Aare starts in Steffisburg Schwäbis and travels from Thun to Bern. Participants can jump into the water along the way; water conditions and safety requirements may vary. Check the current availability of the trip before travelling. This allows you to consider the local outdoor pool, river activities and a guided trip on the Aare as different options for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Thierachern, Forst bei Längenbühl, Heiligenschwendi, Goldiwil (Thun), Unterlangenegg, Buchholterberg, Schwanden Ob Sigriswil, Oberhofen Am Thunersee.

Return to the main travel overview: Thun.