Schwanden Ob Sigriswil: Winter Trails and Starry Skies

The various activities have different seasonal and timing considerations.

Winter Hiking and Snow Sports

The Schwanden–Heiligenschwendi winter hiking trail starts at Schwanden Säge and leads to the REHA clinic in Heiligenschwendi. The route is approximately nine kilometres long, lies between 1,000 and 1,200 metres above sea level, and is marked in pink. These details provide clear guidance for planning in terms of distance, elevation and trail markings. Seasonal conditions can affect access, so check the current situation before setting out.

The Dünzenegg Trail starts at the large Schwanden/Säge car park. It is 8.5 kilometres long, has an elevation gain of 380 metres and is also marked in pink. At around nine kilometres, the winter hiking trail is a similar length; for the trail, the stated ascent is an additional factor to consider when planning. The Dünzenegg Trail depends on the season and snow conditions. The figures describe the routes’ distances and elevation, but do not in themselves indicate how long they will take you.

The Sigriswil-Schwanden winter sports area has two T-bar lifts and one platter lift. The Schwanden ski lift is 1,400 metres long, and three slopes are designated for skiing and snowboarding. The ski lift operates seasonally. It can be reached from Thun by STI bus. Check the current timetable before travelling and the conditions for seasonal activities before setting out for winter sports.

Cross-country skiing is also possible in Werenäbnit Schwanden: the trails offer routes of up to three kilometres for both classic and skating styles. The start and finish are at the Schwanden ski lift car park. There is also a 1.5-kilometre floodlit night trail. Since the trails depend on the season and snow conditions, it is advisable to check current conditions when planning your trip.

Planet Trail, Observatory and Views

The SIRIUS Planet Trail mostly follows well-maintained, marked hiking paths and includes some moderate climbs. Walking time alone is approximately three hours. One starting point is the SIRIUS Observatory in Schwanden. Along the trail, the panorama stretches from Lake Thun across the Bernese Mittelland and far into the Jura. This gives you a sense of the hike not only from its approximate duration but also from its views.

The SIRIUS Observatory is for visitors who, under clear skies, would like to look through a large telescope at the Milky Way, planets and the Moon. Sky observations are therefore dependent on clear conditions. The planetarium offers a different focus: a modern Zeiss star projector projects realistic starry skies onto the dome. There is something to see beneath the dome in all weather and at any time of day. The SIRIUS Astronomy Centre uses modern technology to convey the fascination of space.

The Blueme observation tower stands just a few steps from the SIRIUS Planet Trail and is now an important junction for hiking trails. From the top, the panorama stretches from the Jura to the Bernese Alps. The site combines views with a link to history: the tower stands on a former Chutzen hilltop, where important messages were once relayed using fire and smoke signals. Two barbecue areas invite you to take a break outdoors. When planning, you can therefore decide whether to focus mainly on a hike, astronomy or a viewpoint.

Discover more destinations: Eriz, Goldiwil (Thun), Forst bei Längenbühl, Heiligenschwendi, Amsoldingen, Sigriswil, Uetendorf, Hilterfingen.

Go to the main travel overview: Thun.