The route from Merligen to Thun is a small section of the much longer, more than 60-kilometre-long Panorama Rundweg Thunersee trail no. 26. It is distinguished above all by sensational views of the mountain panorama, including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, and of Lake Thun glistening in the sun.

Swiss Riviera

Due to its location and the Mediterranean climate, the village of Merligen is regarded locally as a riviera. There is no doubt that the breeze from the lake, the proximity to the Bernese Alps and the countless attractions for visitors, set the mood for a holiday.

We don’t stay here long, however, as we have more than 15 km of road ahead of us and other pleasures. After climbing a little higher, the first thing that catches your eye is the pyramid-shaped mountain (Niesen – 2’362 m) on the opposite shore of the lake. Among other things, its summit can be reached by an overground railway, which opened on 15 July 1910.

Stairway to the top of Niesen

In addition to the cable car, a staircase with 11,674 steps also leads to the mountain. However, these are only accessible during the annual Niesen – Treppenlauf run. The run is only 3.5 km long, but with an incline of more than 60% and an altitude difference of 1’669 m, it is not the easiest of runs. It was first organised in 1990.

The view of Niesen stays with us throughout the hike. And the route continues through other, equally picturesque villages. There is therefore the opportunity to look into the gardens of the locals and seek inspiration. It has to be said that the Swiss gardens are very well cared for.

Traditionally, there are self-service outlets selling local products along the route. I recommend the cheese, which I usually buy in such places.

Gummischlucht ravine

The route is also not short of areas closer to nature. For example, just after the village of Sigriswil, you pass through the Gummischlucht Gorge. In its centre, between high rock walls, there is a small bridge from where you have a great view of the stream flowing down the rocks from above. If you feel like finding out more about this place, there are information boards along the path.

As you continue walking, look up because there is a 340-metre-long bridge suspended over the gorge. The path goes right by it, so there will be an opportunity to walk to the other side of the gorge. However, there is a fee to enter the bridge.

Mysterious forest labyrinths

The next points on the map are Rappeflue and Balmflue, which are mysterious labyrinths formed after a large landslide. It looks as if a path leads between huge boulders overgrown with moss and trees. One feels quite small and vulnerable in this magical place.

The last section of the trail leads right next to the lake along the promenade to the very centre of the historic town of Thun. The view from here of the town, the castle and town hall and the beautiful panorama of the Alps, is phenomenal. The benches right next to the lake invite you to stop for a bit and enjoy this landscape.

Finally, the route can be shortened by taking a bus in one of the surrounding villages.