Schweiz: Bärentrek (175) / HERDRUK JULI 2025

The Bernese Oberland has one of the most famous mountain worlds packed into a very small area, including the much admired trio of peaks of Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau. In the eastern part of the Bernese Alps alone, 8 of the total of 47 Swiss peaks of four thousand meters with their glacial peaks reach majestically into the sky and shape the landscape in a unique way. Above all, the Bernese Oberland is also a land of waterfalls, mountain lakes and dramatic gorges: the Simmen waterfalls, Staub and Trümmelbach, the Giessbach waterfalls, the Aare and Rosenlaui gorges, the Oeschinen lake and the Blausee lake. One of the most glamorous long-distance hikes is the Bear Tour, which crosses the Bernese Oberland from east to west in 7 days (approx. 120 km) and covers the most spectacular stretches of land. Captivated by gigantic glaciers and imposing rock walls, the route follows the tracks of the bears that once crossed the passes in prehistoric times. In addition to the unique high mountains, fauna and flora, picturesque valleys with beautiful villages with world-famous names, such as Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Kandersteg and Lenk, provide even more variety, comfort and nostalgia from the turn of the century. And those who prefer the hearty hut life will find rustic mountain accommodation in certain places. The starting point is Meiringen in the Haslital, the end point is Gsteig in the Saanenland. Thanks to the exemplary public transport network, the tour can also be completed in shorter stages or divided into weekend trips.