Gäu – between the Jura and the Aare

Gäu is bordered to the north by the first ridge of the Jura Mountains and to the south by the Aare. Oensingen is the main town of the district, which consists of eight municipalities. The area is part of the Olten tourism region, which comprises the three easternmost districts of the canton of Solothurn. Away from the main traffic routes, Gäu has largely retained its rural character. A stay here can focus on a range of themes: historical visits, trails across the Jura hills and activities on the Aare.

Oensingen: Castle and Market

Neu-Bechburg Castle in Oensingen has a history spanning more than 750 years. The grounds include a romantic castle park. Guided tours of the castle can be booked on request; check availability before your trip.

The Zibelimäret is also part of the annual calendar in Oensingen: it takes place every year from Friday to Sunday on the last full weekend in October. The programme includes fairground attractions, specialities, a trade exhibition and a market featuring local associations. If you plan to travel for the event, check the dates for your travel year.

Jura Hills, Views and Climbing

The 14.5 km “Jurahöhen-Beizen-Tour” hiking route runs from Oensingen to Egerkingen across the Jura hills. Hiking routes from Oensingen lead to the Roggenflue viewpoint. Its south face has five climbing routes on limestone; check conditions and restrictions before climbing.

Höchi Flue is another viewpoint: at 966 m, it offers panoramic views and information boards. The ascent appeals to sporty hikers and cyclists. This offers a variety of ways to get active in the landscape: a marked hiking route across the Jura hills, trails to a viewpoint and climbing routes on the Roggenflue.

Wolfwil on the Aare

Wolfwil lies on the Aare and is ideal for walking, jogging and cycling. One special trail idea is the 2.5 km Elfen- und Wichtelweg Wolfwil, a forest nature trail with 18 stations. It features handmade games, puzzles and gnome houses. Shorter loops are also possible; the trail is suitable for strollers and dogs, and has fire pits and comfortable places to rest. As trail details and facilities may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.

The pilgrimage site of Wolfwil is home to a Gothic devotional image of the Virgin Mary in its chapel. Visitors can learn about the site on a private guided tour.

More Activities and Getting There

Neuendorf has an 18-hole mini-golf course and a children’s playground. Härkingen’s sports facilities include a golf driving range. If you want to use it, check separately whether it is open to the public.

Olten and Solothurn can be reached quickly by public transport from Härkingen; check the timetable for your travel date. From Härkingen, the A1 and A2 motorways lead to Basel, Bern, Lucerne and Zurich in 30 to 60 minutes. This information provides a guide to getting there, while the activities in Gäu each offer their own highlights.

Plan your journey around the places you want to visit.

Discover more destinations: Oensingen, Egerkingen, Härkingen, Gösgen, Olten, Thal, Bucheggberg, Dorneck.

For the wider travel overview: Solothurn.