Gurten Park and Funicular

Gurten is the green hill just south of Bern, rising to around 860 metres, and it is the city's favourite place for fresh air. A funicular, in service since the late nineteenth century, climbs from the valley station in Wabern to the top in a few minutes, and the station can be reached by tram from the city centre in around fifteen minutes. At the top you find a park with woodland trails, open lawns, playgrounds, a miniature railway, restaurants and picnic spots. A lookout tower offers a wide panorama over Bern, the Aare valley and, on a clear day, the line of the Bernese Alps from the Eiger to the Jungfrau. The hill is also known for its music festival in July and for a long brewing tradition that gave the local beer its name. Locals come for walks, family outings and simple picnics, and the Gurten feels pleasantly unhurried compared with the busy Old Town.

The funicular makes the visit easy for everyone, and the hill suits all ages. For children, the miniature railway and the large playground are the main attractions. For adults, the walks and viewpoints are the draw, with marked trails that lead around the summit in loops of different lengths. Several routes run down through the forest to the foot of the hill, which makes a pleasant return on foot after riding up. Restaurants at the top serve Swiss dishes and have terraces with views, so lunch is a natural part of the outing.

Time your visit with the weather. On a clear day the tower view is excellent, but cloud or haze can hide the Alps, and the funicular schedule varies with the season, so check the operating times before you go. In winter, the park is quieter and snow can lie on the trails, creating a different mood, though some facilities may be closed.

Dress in layers, since the hilltop is cooler than the city, and wear shoes suitable for forest paths. Special events through the year include seasonal festivals and concerts, and the Gurten festival in summer draws large crowds, so avoid the dates if you want a quiet visit.

Getting there is simple. Take the tram toward Wabern from the station and walk a few minutes to the valley station, or use the local bus. Public transport in Bern is efficient, and many hotels provide a transport pass for guests. Allow half a day for the round trip with a walk and a meal.

The Gurten pairs well with a morning in the Old Town, giving a balance between culture and nature. For a lighter outing, ride up for the view, have a coffee on the terrace and ride down again in about two hours.

Other facilities include a small pond, a sculpture trail and a seasonal programme of events that ranges from family days to music evenings. Dogs are welcome on leads on most trails, and strollers can use the main paths. The funicular is also a handy ride for anyone who wants to see the city from above without a long climb. If the weather turns, the restaurants offer warm indoor seating with panoramic windows, so even a cloudy day has its moments. Check the weather forecast and the live webcam before setting off.