THE SWISS PARKS
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Argovia Jurapark
Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park
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Die grüne Schatzkammer.
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Rhein ins Vergnügen, raus aufs Land.
SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD
Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft Confédération suisse Confederazione Svizzera Confederaziun svizra Swiss Confederation
Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald Im Rhythmus der Natur.
Bundesamt für Umwelt BAFU Office fédéral de l’environnement OFEV Ufficio federale dell’ambiente UFAM Uffizi federal d’ambient UFAM Federal Office for the Environment FOEN
Ra
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Schaffhausen Wilchingen
These 18 Swiss Parks indicate exceptional areas of Switzerland. They were created to promote the distinctive scenery – both natural and cultivated – by their typical regional biodiversity and an environment that inspires people over and over again be it culturally, economically or for culinary traditions. The parks house a myriad of small wonders, waiting to be discovered, experienced, heard and savoured.
Jestetten
4 Rüdlingen
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Chasseral Nature Park
Thal Nature Park
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La vie grandeur nature.
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Stille Natur. Lebendiges Thal.
SaintUrsanne
Passwang Langenberg
Etang de la Gruère Mont Soleil
Oensingen
Welschenrohr
Sihlwald
Solothurn Zug
Les Prés-d’Orvin Biel/Bienne
La Chaux-de-Fonds
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Jura vaudois Nature Park Harmonieuse diversité.
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Jorat Nature Discovery Park (Candidate)
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Saut du uz R Doubs e ld a Le Locle V Neuchâtel
Une terre à vivre au quotidien.
Schwyz
Schüpfheim
Bern
Stans Sarnen
Schra tt
Fribourg Guggershorn
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V Col du Marchairuz
Mont Tendre
L’Abbaye de Montheron
Bulle La borne des trois Jorats
Wiriehore Grimmialp
Vanil Noir
Lausanne
Château de Chillon
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Barbecue Bed and Breakfast
Mountain cableway
un
Va lM
Albulapass
s Roffl a
Müstair
ora
Julierpass
Ernen Leukerbad
Grengiols
Leuk Sierre
Gampel
Niederwald Binn
Brig-Glis
ld Pfynwa ben I ll g r a
Sion
Genève
Bellinzona
Museum
Biotope
Picking
Campsite Crafts
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St. Moritz
Mountain inn
Bicycle paths
Ofenpass/ Pass dal Fuorn
Blitzingen
Mountain biking
Architecture
S-chanf
Savognin
Bivio
Rochers de Naye
Information centre
Mountain pass
Bergün/ Bravuogn
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Ice sports
Peak
Church
Splügen
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Zernez
Thusis
Piz Beverin Andeer
Charmey
Col de la Givrine
Town or village
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Oey-Diemtigen
Château-d’Œx
Safien Platz
lucht
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Villars-Tiercelin
17 Val Clu o z z
lé al
de
Schwarzsee
Gantrisch
Scuol
Davos
Val Tr upc h
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16
Sörenberg
Brienzer Rothorn
Thun
Gurnigelpass
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Viama
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Altdorf
t
luh Marbachegg enf
Schwarzenburg
ux o J
Glarus
Luzern
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Col du Mollendruz
Von Natur aus anders.
Albishorn
SoncebozSombeval
Chasseral
Appenzell
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Balsthal Saignelégier
Herisau
Zürich
Mümliswil
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Biosfera Val Müstair
St. Gallen Aarau
Delémont
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Linn (Bözberg)
ch l a Schl u
À contre-courant.
pure wilderness.
Frauenfeld
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Doubs Nature Park
Swiss National Park
Laufenburg Frick
Basel
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Nature/culture Natural monument
Easy hiking
Outdoor events
Eating/Sleeping
Playground
Electric bike
Recipe
Fauna
Rest area
Flora
Restaurant
Groceries
Ski lift
Group accommodation
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Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park
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Gantrisch Nature Park
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Un parc à vivre, un parc à partager.
Beverin Nature Park Wo der Capricorn zu Hause ist. Igl datgea digl capricorn.
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Parc Ela Der grösste Naturpark der Schweiz! Igl pi grond parc natural dalla Svizra!
Sledging Snowshoeing
Hiking
Thematic trail
Historical site
Town tour
Historical town centre
Viewpoint
Hotel
Winter activities
Hut
Winter hiking
Raum zum Entdecken – bei Tag und Nacht.
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Diemtigtal Nature Park nah – wild – wertvoll
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Pfyn-Finges Nature Park Staunen von Berg bis Tal.
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UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch visionär. natürlich.
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Binntal Nature Park Starke Wurzeln. Verborgene Schätze.
50 km
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Background map © swisstopo Perimeters 01/2019 © BAFU/Swiss Parks Network Park perimeter provisional in some places Icons © outdooractive
parks.swiss
The Swiss Parks
THE SWISS PARKS
Park and product label
Doubs Regional Nature Park
Chasseral Regional Nature Park
Thal Regional Nature Park
Argovia Jurapark
The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) awards the park label for a period of ten years to parks that fulfil all federal requirements. Products and services from these parks, which meet particular requirements can be certified with a product label by the park authority.
River, border and bond The Doubs River forms a natural border for 40 km between Switzerland and France. In Les Brenets, this wonder of nature is particularly impressive because here the river becomes a lake flanked by steep cliffs. The lake’s tranquil waters are suddenly agitated before becoming the Saut du Doubs waterfall. You can reach the waterfall on foot from the pier. The river continues its course through wild gorges, passing through Goumois and continuing all the way to Clos du Doubs before reentering France.
The great outdoors There are many aspects to the Chasseral Regional Nature Park, which takes its name from the splendid mountain ridge that overlooks western Switzerland. The pastures, vineyards, wild gullies, plateaus and valleys bear testimony to a fierce desire to live with dignity. Quality watches and famous cheeses: dependable values. Everyone will encounter life’s true pleasures while walking, eating, breathing, observing and chatting here.
Ideal at any pace Although the Thal Nature Park lies right in the middle of Switzerland, it is a relatively well-kept secret. Nestling in the hills of the Solothurn Jura, this is a place where nature can be enjoyed at any pace. You can cycle through the countryside scattered with ruined castles or hike along the thematic trails and discover more about the flora and fauna, the geology of the region and local myths and legends. Alternatively, you may want to try out your climbing skills. And those who just want to relax can enjoy a good meal in one of the many mountain restaurants.
Recreation and relaxation Nestled between the rivers Aare and Rhine lie the hills of the Aargau Jura. This is the largest natural recreation area between Basel and Zurich, where hikers can delight in majestic fir trees, areas dotted with orchids, orchards, rocky outcrops and vineyards. It is the perfect place to relax, to discover and enjoy your surroundings and to get some exercise. At the heart of the park lies the Tafeljura between Frick and Villigen, an area of high plateaus giving views far into the Alps. The Aargau Jura, with its original valleys and villages, provides a gentle contrast to the built-up areas along the Aare and Rhine.
Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park
Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald
Randen, vineyards, Rhine In the northernmost corner of Switzerland lies an unexpectedly diverse landscape waiting to be discovered and experienced in all kinds of ways. The Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park is an area of expansive arable land, exceptional grasslands, wideranging forests and beautifully tended vineyards, and the unique landscape through which flows the River Rhine. Take in the view across the region and beyond from the Randen towers, learn about the countryside and its people in a tour around the picturesque villages or delve into the past at the Kesslerloch.
Something unique is emerging in the Sihlwald forest The Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald in Switzerland’s Central Plateau is unique in that it features a vast, connected area of around 11 square kilometres and offers a rare example of a primeval beech forest. Although human management of the Sihlwald was ceased not so long ago in 2000, there are already large sections of the forest with dead standing trees and fallen, decaying tree trunks, which provide insight into the emerging forest and wilderness. The wilderness offers a wide range of habitats for plants and animals. Hundreds of beetle, gnat and fly species make their homes in and on the deadwood. The variety of lichens, moss and fungi is amazing. Beech, ash and silver firs grow into huge giants over 50 metres tall. The Sihlwald was the first area in Switzerland to receive the official “Nature Discovery Park” label and certification. These credentials refer to its unique combination of nature pro-
SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD
Swiss Parks of National Importance are characterised by their scenic beauty, rich biodiversity and valuable cultural heritage. The people within the park communities are committed not only to preserving this valuable resource, but also to improving it and using it for the economic and social development of their region.
Argovia Jurapark
Significant scenic, natural and cultural value Of significant value in a Park of National Importance are forests and waters rich in biodiversity, rare habitats such as marshlands, alluvial zones and dry meadows, and unique landscapes of exceptional beauty such as the Jura Heights in the Argovia Jurapark or the managed grasslands of the Alps in the Diemtigtal Nature Park. In addition, the buffer zones around national parks and regional nature parks are areas of well-tended cultural landscapes, unspoilt villages and valuable cultural assets such as the St. Johann Monastery in the Biosfera Val Müstair (GR), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
www.parks.swiss
Supported by the people Parks originate in the hearts and minds of the local people: The public gives the impetus for the creation of a park. Only then will the federal government support a park project and award it the park label – provided all requirements are fulfilled. The local municipalities play a considerable role in the park authority, making strategically important decisions about the park.
Preserving value and promoting sustainable management Increasing numbers of municipalities in Switzerland are adopting policies based on sustainable development. This is particularly noticeable in the parks, where the inhabitants are aware of the special nature of the local and regional area and of the value of the landscape. This value also lies in the villages and the culture of the people living there. Municipalities within the parks work together and with other partners to develop visions and strategies to preserve these values and use them to develop their municipalties sustainably. Fascination and enjoyment The parks provide the opportunity to experience nature up close and learn new things about the natural world; this might happen, for example, on a “herb walk” or “marshland landscape path”. Village shops sell locally produced sausages, wine and cheese and local restaurants offer tempting regional specialities. It is a combination of all these qualities, which makes the Swiss Parks unique.
Saut du Doubs The hike starts in Les Brenets and after three kilometers takes visitors to the trail’s first highlight, the “Saut du Doubs” waterfall, then continues alongside the Lac de Moron on to the dam. The small “Halte du Châtelot” restaurant was once a meeting place for smugglers. The Doubs River runs past rugged cliffs, at times furiously gushing and then calmly flowing on to La Rasse.
> From Les Brenets to Biaufond: 21.2 km. Hiking time: 6:25 hours. www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ route-095.html Étang de la Gruère The Étang de la Gruère is an oasis of greenery located at the heart of the Franches-Montagnes, between Saignelégier and Tramelan. A trail winds its way along this scenic body of water in the midst of a marshy landscape. Lush and beautiful vegetation thrives in the wetlands, which are also home to interesting terrestrial and aquatic fauna.
Pioneers’ trail On this two-day hike from the Chasseral to Vue des Alpes, walkers can discover how nature in the Jura mountains was “tamed” by humans. Nature, in turn, shaped the special character of inhabitants. The trail with its many spectacular views leads along hedges, dry stone walls and mountain inns (métairies).
> From the Chasseral to the Vue des Alpes: 28 km. Hiking time: 2 days of 3:20 hours and 4:45 hours. www.parcchasseral.ch Anabaptists’ trail On this two-day trip you can discover various visible traces of the life of the Anabaptists (a community that sought refuge in the plateau region of the Jura mountains in the 17th century), including secret gathering places with mysterious inscriptions, the Anabaptist Archive, networks of dry stone walls and much more. > From Sonceboz-Sombeval to the Chasseral: 33 km. Hiking time: 2 days of 4:30 hours and 6 hours. www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ etappe-0992.html
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Wolfsschlucht – “Wolf’s Gorge” trail, Welschenrohr This hike takes you through the many different aspects of the Thal Nature Park. The route begins with an ascent through the beautifully wild and romantic Wolfsschlucht (Wolf’s Gorge) and then continues along the airy heights of the second Jura mountain chain to Tannmatt
and on to Mieschegg. It is worth taking a quick detour to the dry stone wall on the Probstenberg, before the path leads back down to the village of Welschenrohr. > Round trip back to Welschenrohr: 14 km. Hiking time: 4 hours. www.naturparkthal.ch/ wolfsschlucht-weg Holzweg Thal, Balsthal and Holderbank The “Holzweg Thal” is a discovery trail that introduces visitors to the forest and its product, wood, via the media of art and play, inviting them to think, feel and touch. Artist Sammy Deichmann’s installations present nature in new and unexpected ways. They blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings, inviting discovery. > Several possible routes: 1:30 hours – 2:30 hours. www.holzwegthal.ch
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Frick Valley cherry trail The Chriesiwäg cherry trail in GipfOberfrick takes walkers through the spectacularly beautiful landscape of the Frick Valley with its abundance of cherry trees. The trail includes eleven information panels about cherry cultivation. Direct tasting from marked trees is permitted.
> Round trip from Gipf-Oberfrick bus stop, bridge: 5.5 km. Hiking time: 1:30 to 2 hours, longer option 4 hours. www.chriesiwaeg.ch Raftsmen’s trail Rafting was an important industry in the 19 th century. Rafters steered the timber rafts on the Aare and the Rhine from Stilli to Laufenburg and walked overland from there back to the starting point. Today, this wellmarked trail winds through the vineyards of the Mettau Valley and has information boards about the history. Take a break and enjoy a “rafting beer” or an overnight stay at the Gasthaus Bären in Hottwill. > Start: Laufenburg, destination: Stilli (Villigen) – or opposite direction Distance : 20 km, 4–6 hours www.floesserweg.ch
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Rhine-vineyard route Hike through vineyards and along the Rhine. Follow the trails used by the Romans, Celts and ferry operators and discover a piece of history.
> From Jestetten ((D) with SBB) to Buchberg: 13 km, 3:30 hours www.natourpark.ch (Wandern) Reiatweg Discover one of the most northern regions of Switzerland. The hike through varied terrain and the view of extinct volcanoes and the Alps is thrilling. > Recommended starting point: Hüttenleben bus stop in Thayngen. > Round trip starting and ending in Thayngen: 19 km, 4:45 hours www.wanderland.ch/en/ hiking-in-switzerland/ hiking-in-swiss-parks.html
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tection and recreation. For visitors who seek recreation, it boasts 73 km of hiking trails, 59 km of cycling routes and 55 km of bridle paths. Current and previously local wild animals, such as brown bear, wolf, lynx, deer, elk and European bison, can be found in the expansive and near natural compounds of the Wildnispark Zurich Langenberg. Visitors Centre The visitors centre of the Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald is located five minutes away from Sihlwald railway station. It provides information about the park, has a restaurant, a souvenir and bookstore, a large wilderness playground and a nature museum. Opening hours: 21st of March till the end of October, Tue to Sat from 12 to 5:30 pm; Sun 9 am to 5:30 pm; closed Mondays.
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Facts and figures
Address
Facts and figures
Address
Facts and figures
Address
Facts and figures
Address
Facts and figures
Address
Facts and figures
Address
Location: Northwestern Switzerland, approx. 60 km from Basel and 20 km from Neuchâtel
Parc du Doubs, Place du 23-Juin 6 CP 316 2350 Saignelégier Tel. 032 420 46 70 info@parcdoubs.ch www.parcdoubs.ch
Location: 10 km from Biel, Neuchâtel and La Chaux-deFonds Cantons: Bern and Neuchâtel
Parc régional Chasseral Place de la Gare 2 CP 219 2610 Saint-Imier Tel. 032 942 39 49 info@parcchasseral.ch www.parcchasseral.ch
Location: Solothurn Jura, between Berne, Basel, Lucerne and Zurich
Naturpark Thal Hölzlistrasse 57 Postfach 255 4710 Balsthal Tel. 062 386 12 30 info@naturparkthal.ch www.naturparkthal.ch
Location: Aargau Jura, 40 km from Zurich, 8 km from Aarau, 25 km from Basel
Jurapark Aargau Linn 51 5225 Bözberg Tel. 062 877 15 04 info@jurapark-aargau.ch www.jurapark-aargau.ch
Location: Swiss-German border, north of the Rhine, 30 km north of Zurich
Regionaler Naturpark Schaffhausen Hauptstrasse 50 8217 Wilchingen Tel. 052 533 27 07 info@naturpark-schaffhausen.ch www.naturpark-schaffhausen.ch
Location: 20 km south of Zurich
Stiftung Wildnispark Zurich Alte Sihltalstrasse 38 8135 Sihlwald Tel. 044 722 55 22 info@wildnispark.ch www.wildnispark.ch
Cantons:
Jura, Neuchâtel and Bern Area: 294 km2 Population: 14 400 Municipalities: 16
Park categories
THE SWISS PARKS
Park label If a park meets the requirements, it receives the protected label of “Park of National Importance” from the federal authorities. The park label is valid for ten years, after which time the park authorities must submit a new application. This ensures that the park meets all the natural, landscape and cultural requirements, that the management works professionally, and that all democratic, financial and territorial aspects of the park are guaranteed over the long term. Prospective parks can request a provisional candidate label whilst at the development stage.
Product label Goods and services from the parks are eligible for the Swiss Parks product label designation from the park authority. Fourteen parks already offer over than 1,700 different food products – and the range is growing. For example, the “Jurakette” (“Jura chain”) sausage is produced in the Thal Nature Park (SO). The L’Étivaz Alpine cheese from the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Nature Park, the “Mostbröckli” (smoked and air-dried beef, served in thin slices) from the Argovia Jurapark and the cereal risotto from the Gantrisch Nature Park all carry the “Swiss Parks” product label, which guarantees that the product is a high-quality regional speciality from a park. The label is only awarded if the products meet the requirements of a local brand and the services are essentially provided within the park area. In addition, they should be produced sustainably and help to strengthen the regional economy. The federal level certification process ensures that this is the case. Consumers of local goods and services thus contribute to preserving and improving the local biodiversity and countryside, to promoting specific cultural values and boosting the regional economy.
Cantons: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Bern, Neuchâtel 387 km2 38 700 21
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Solothurn 139 km2 14 800 9
Cantons:
Aargau, Solothurn Area: 241 km2 Population: 41 300 Municipalities: 28
Cantons:
Schaffhausen; Waldshut district (DE) Area: 209 km2, of which 175 km2 in Switzerland Population: 26 000 Municipalities: 15; two villages on German side
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Zurich 11 km2 90 6 perimeter municipalities / 13 affiliated municipalities
Benefits for the local people
Jura Vaudois Regional Nature Park
Jorat Nature Discovery Park
Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park
Gantrisch Regional Nature Park
Diemtigtal Regional Nature Park
Pfyn-Finges Regional Nature Park
In creating a park, the local population makes a conscious decision to pursue a sustainable economic and social development in their region. This development should be in tune with local natural and landscape values, and at the same time maintain an outlook for the local inhabitants and future generations. Changes are therefore desirable, but they must concord with the sustainability criteria to which the region commits itself.
Between nature and culture The Jura Vaudois Nature Park stretches from the Dôle peak as far as the little medieval town of Romainmôtier, with its famous abbey. The park has a rich variety of natural features: quiet forests, mysterious marshlands, wide open grasslands and karst rocks. The region is a great place for biking and for pleasure hikes with numerous traditional pubs and farmhouse inns serving local specialities.
The largest forest on the Swiss Plateau Lying north of Lausanne, the huge forest expanse of the Jorat is the largest continuous wooded area on the Swiss Plateau. With its many springs and wetlands, it is a source of high quality drinking water for the region. The Jorat is a special area with a very strong identity.
Landscapes with people In the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park, people, nature and culture are bound together in impressive harmony: rugged hills dotted with shingleroofed Alpine huts and historic villages with their stone bridges over the River Saane bear witness to a centuries-old culture. Today the local people still celebrate their pride in their region with numerous folk festivals and customs. And they take delight in the wonderful landscape: La Pierreuse and the Vanil Noir nature reserves being of particularly outstanding beauty.
Fresh air park near the capital The landscape in Gantrisch Regional Nature Park is characterised by forests, canyons and the unique Gantrisch mountain chain. The area is rich in legends and stories, like the folk song “Vreneli ab em Guggisberg”. The low level of light pollution provides unimpeded views of the stars. The unspoiled landscape is ideal for relaxation. The region has been designated as a “Regional Nature Park of National Importance” since 2012. This means that state support is provided for projects in the region that benefit nature, society and sustainable business activities.
Close by – wild – treasured Wild landscapes, exciting discoveries: the Diemtigtal Nature Park offers many outdoor adventures right on your doorstep. With 140 Alpine farms and over 10,000 dairy cows, heifers, sheep, goats and horses, the Diemtigtal is the largest Alpine farming community in Switzerland. The cultural and economic traditions of this community are still upheld and highly valued today, something which is clearly seen and felt.
Delights from mountain to valley Grasslands and biotopes, idyllic mountain villages and towns, hilly vineyards and one of the largest spruce forest in the Alps… the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park concentrates huge natural diversity in a small area and has an astonishing variety of different landscapes and richness of flora and fauna.
SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD
Parks of National Importance are divided into three categories: national parks, regional nature parks and nature discovery parks. These three park categories have different organisational structures and pursue different goals. National park A national park consists of a core and a buffer zone. In the core zone, nature can develop freely and undisturbed. Human activities are severely restricted. The buffer zone includes villages and cultural landscapes managed in harmony with nature, as well as areas for tourism or forestry. As its name suggests, this zone provides a buffer which protects the core zone from negative influences. Currently, there are no projects in this category.
www.parks.swiss
Publishing details Publisher:
Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN)
Text credits:
Switzerland Tourism, the Swiss Parks, Swiss Parks Network, FOEN
Final editing:
In-house consultants:
Christoph Grosjean, Estelle Paratte, Mireille Rotzetter Species, Ecosystems, Landscapes Division: Matthias Stremlow, Simone Remund, Christoph Grosjean
Communication Division: Gabriella Zinke Design:
Picture credits:
Cartography:
Address for ordering the print version (free):
Nature discovery park A nature discovery park is divided into a core and a transition zone. The core zone provides an undisturbed habitat for local flora and fauna. The transition zone acts as a buffer for the core zone. In the transition zone there is a wide range of opportunities for education, relaxation and adventure sports, providing an important contribution to improving the quality of life of the urban population. A nature discovery park is no more than 20 kilometres from the nearest urban centre and is easily accessible by public transport.
A park can offer many benefits to the local population. These might include developing marketing strategies for the sale of regional products, encouraging innovative methods of caring for the cultural landscape for farmers, or helping to market natural attractions for the tourism sector. Some parks now offer new and varied activities for a wide range of visitors and are committed to creating accessible tourism. Such activities extend a park’s value-added chain and create additional value. They help to ensure that existing jobs are maintained and new ones created.
Strengthening identity Overall, a park strengthens the positioning of a region. It can help to ensure that services such as village shops or public transport are preserved and can encourage social cohesion. A park may also bring new impulse to a region. For example, several parks have established working groups and forums to discuss the future of the region and develop concrete projects. Thus, cultural offers, discussion groups and panel discussions are being created as a result of direct initiatives taken by the local population. Such initiatives strengthen the culture and identity of the region.
Metzger Rottmann Bürge Partner AG, Erlenbach/ZH Roland Gerth, Markus Gyger, semio / Nicolas Denis, Lorenz Andreas Fischer, Gerry Nitsch, Marc Amiguet, Samuel Monnard, Renato Bagattini, Christof Sonderegger, Kathrin Käser / swissimage / Switzerland Tourism / Roberto Buzzini – FOEN / Gantrisch Nature Park / Federal Office for the Environment / Bern Tourismus / Mel Weber / Argovia Jurapark and photographers from the Swiss Parks featured. Metzger Rottmann Bürge Partner AG, supported by Swiss Parks Network FOBL, Distribution of Publications www.bafu.admin.ch/ud-1050-e Order number: 810.400.055eng This publication is also available in German, French and Italian. © FOEN seventh updated edition: January 2019
On foot through the Jura vaudois Nature Park This 2–3 day hike takes you along the ridges from St-Cergue to Romainmôtier, on to Mont Tendre (1679 m), and down to the foot of the Jura. Along the way you can enjoy the magnificent panorama of the Vallée de Joux, the Alps and the Lake Geneva region.
Enjoyment for all
An untamed forest on Zurich’s doorstep, studying an ant colony in the Jura vaudois, delightful walks in the valleys of Valais and exploring sites soaked in history in the mountains of Graubünden: Experience the fascination of Switzerland’s parks in pristine natural and characteristic cultural landscapes and discover a whole new world of learning.
Nut tarts, apple cider, excursions and overnight stays: The Swiss Parks produce unique products and offer services of exceptional quality. Products and services can be found in the park itself, but are also available at retailers and at markets and fairs.
Swiss Parks have something to offer all visitors, from school classes to families and individuals. Here you can explore Alpine landscapes, walk in gently rolling hills, trek over rugged rock formations or stroll through blossoming orchards. Those interested in cultural and natural history will also find an exciting programme on offer: historical routes invite cyclists on a venture of discovery, castles reveal their fascinating history, and marshland nature trails offer astonishing new insights. Not forgetting the rich offering of culinary experiences: Families tending herds in the mountains give a taste of Alpine cooking, vintners open their wine cellars, and “tasting trails” let you discover regional products such as cheese, sausage, wine and bread. For e-bike fans, we recommend the “Route Verte” – From Schaffhausen to Geneva, this trail will take you accross the living landscapes of the Jura mountain range’s six Nature Parks (www.larouteverte.ch).
Learning in the field The parks’ location in regions featuring extraordinary natural and cultural values makes them an ideal place for learning. One of the key tasks of a park is to develop programmes which raise awareness and educate both the local population and its guests. The parks offer special arrangements for families, groups and companies, from guided walks and excursions to theme trails and talks. There is also a long list of volunteer services, environmental education and adult education courses. The UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch is the largest Swiss provider of nature and culture excursions. School in the park Several parks offer a large variety of exciting activities specially for school classes. For example, the Zurich Sihlwald Wilderness Park organises excursions targeted at primary schools. In the Diemtigtal Nature Park it is possible to spend a few days with a class on the Alp learning about the way of life and the work there. In the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, meanwhile, schoolchildren can go to school on the farm. And why not discover the forest from an ant’s perspective in the Jura vaudois Park, home to the largest known colony of wood ants?
Swiss Parks offer a year-round range of exquisite food products, high-quality consumer items, original handicrafts and exciting activities. It is worth keeping an eye out for the label for products and services from the parks as this guarantees that the purchase of the product or service benefits the park. Even hotels and restaurants offer certified services for dining out. Fairs and special events like the Swiss Parks Market, the “Genuss” (Best of the Region) and “Genusswoche” (“enjoyment week” in September) and special offers available in the parks around “Parks Day” (always on 24 May) provide an ideal opportunity for discovering the culinary and cultural variety on offer in the parks. Guided enjoyment In the parks themselves, guided walks bring an informative element to the pleasure experience. In Argovia Jurapark, for example, wine walks take place on two weekends in the year. The Jura vaudois Nature Park runs mushroom excursions led by a mycologist, and between June and September the Diemtigtal Nature Park invites visitors to “discovery days” on five alps, with
One of Switzerland’s biggest forest areas Situated more than 1000 metres above sea level, the huge Risoud forest covers an astounding 2277 hectares. The trees are principally spruce, providing wood of a very high quality. It is said that resonant wood from this forest was used to construct some Stradivarius violins. Discover this mystic forest steeped in legend and stories of contraband…
Fountain Trail in the Jorat forest For centuries, the main springs in this region have been tapped to provide drinking water to the inhabitants of Lausanne and the surrounding towns and villages. Other less important springs and resurgences have also been tapped over the years to feed the fountains along the forest paths, formerly for woodcutters and their horses, and nowadays for the delight of walkers.
Handicap & Nature Trail The five-kilometre route, starting and ending at the Villars-Tiercelin forest hut, leads through varied forest landscapes dotted with observation posts on fauna, flora and the mountains. Part of the track is laid out on a removable deck made of oak from the local forest. There are crossing places for wheelchairs every 50 to 100 metres. > Round trip from the Villars-Tiercelin forest hut: 5 km. Hiking time: 1 hour and 15 min.
Chemin de la Sarine in the Pays-d’Enhaut The hike begins in Rougemont, which has several delightful buildings, and follows the path of the Saane as far as Château-d’Œx. The trail then takes you across meadows to Rossinière. This village is known for its extraordinary wooden buildings, including the
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Markets, cottages and “Gourmet Roads” Each year, the Gantrisch, Thal, Binntal and Entlebuch Nature Parks organise a market where locals and visitors can purchase regional products from the local municipalities, such as cheese, sausage, dried meat, vegetables, tea and baked goods. The Argovia Jurapark has created a “Gourmet Road”, a circuit of 179 kilometres leading visitors to numerous producers and restaurants. The Gantrisch Nature Park has come up with an original idea, so-called “Gantrisch Hüsli” (Gantrisch cottages) in numerous shops in the region, including in Bern, which sell local products such as Vreneli cheese, Drachenhörnli (“dragon macaroni”), the legendary Christmas biscuits and painted Easter eggs. The Entlebuch herb and wild plant market in Escholzmatt is known throughout Switzerland. An overview of Gourmet Weeks, markets and park products can be found on the homepage of the Swiss Parks Network: > www.parks.swiss/en/discover_ the_parks/eating_drinking/
> From Rougemont to Rossinière: 15 km. Hiking time: 3–4 hours. www.gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch Information centre at the Maison de L’Etivaz The Maison de l’Etivaz is the first Relais Infos – information centre – established in the Gruyère Paysd’Enhaut Regional Nature Park. It provides general information about the park and the Alpine economy. There are two slide shows which give an insight into local cheesemaking techniques in Alpine chalets where visitors are invited to participate in the summer months.
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Gantrisch panoramic trail The name of this 20-kilometre-long trail holds no false promises. The Gäggersteg footbridge across the forest area damaged by Storm Lothar will be the high point of this hike for children. Virtue was made of a necessity here: a forest reserve now exists in the area in which entire expanses of forest
were levelled by the storm in the winter of 1999. > From Gurnigelbad to Zollhaus: 20 km, Hiking time: 7 hours (can be completed in stages). www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ route-0379.html Leisurely Walk in the Gantrisch Regional Nature Park Along the circular walk, visitors are rewarded with amazing views and impressions: From the path, visitors can take in the direct view of the Alps, hike through the wild Thanwald, pass the noteworthy and charming town of Oberbütschel and refresh themselves at two restaurants. On Wednesdays, they can take a tour of the nearby Uecht Observatory, where they will be able to gaze at the magnificent starry sky.
Alpine treats What could be nicer than ending your Alpine experience actually on an Alp? Book a day helping with the cows (“chüejeren”), or cheesemaking in the Füürhus before enjoying a platter of tasty cheese and bread, assorted meats or the traditional farmer’s dish, “rösti” (hash browns). Visitors can round off the day with a glass of wine under a starry sky, in the midst of fascinating mountain scenery. > www.diemtigtal.ch/alpgenuss
Springenboden Wrestling Trail Do you know the Wyberhaken? Home of Swiss wrestling champion Kilian Wenger, here you can find out more about this popular national sport, which has managed to uphold its deep-rooted traditions.
Illgraben – Bhutan bridge round trip The 134-metre-long suspended footbridge was constructed in 2002 in cooperation with the Kingdom of Bhutan. It provides an attractive way of accessing the Pfynwald nature conservation area. The bridge also leads the visitor across the Illgraben valley, one of the most active debris flow areas in the entire Alpine region.
> Illgraben – Bhutan Bridge round trip, starts and ends at Leuk train station: 7 km. Hiking time: 2:30 hours. www.pfyn-finges.ch/ illgrabenbhutanbruecke Info centres Further information about the region can be obtained at the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park, at the Leuk Tourism entrance to the SOSTA sport and culture centre at Leuk railway station, and at Siders railway station.
> Circuit from Springenboden: 2 km, 1:30 hours
> www.gantrisch.ch/musse
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Address
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Location: Jura vaudois, 25 km from Yverdon-les-Bains and 35 km from Lausanne
Parc Jura vaudois Rte du Marchairuz 2 1188 St-George Tel. 022 366 51 70 info@parcjuravaudois.ch www.parcjuravaudois.ch
Location: north of Lausanne
Parc naturel périurbain du Jorat Rue des Fontaines 8 1058 Villars-Tiercelin Tel. 021 903 09 30 info@jorat.org www.jorat.org
The centre of the park is located 80 km from Lausanne and 60 km from Freiburg
Parc naturel régional Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Place du Village 6 1660 Château-d’Œx Tel. 0848 110 888 inscriptions@ gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch www.gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch
Location: between Bern, Fribourg and Thun
Fördeverein Region Gantrisch Naturpark Gantrisch, Schloss Schlossgasse 13 3150 Schwarzenburg Tel. 031 808 00 20 info@gantrisch.ch www.gantrisch.ch
Location: Bernese Oberland, half an hour away from the city of Bern
Naturpark Diemtigtal Bahnhofstrasse 20 3753 Oey Tel. 033 681 26 06 info@diemtigtal.ch www.diemtigtal.ch
Location: Central Valais, 25 km from Visp
Naturpark Pfyn-Finges Kirchstrasse 4 Postfach 65 3970 Salgesch Tel. 027 452 60 60 admin@pfyn-finges.ch www.pfyn-finges.ch
Vaud 531 km2 34 900 30
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch
overnight stays. In this way, visitors come into close contact with locals and learn about the production, manufacturing processes and origins of the products.
famous Grand Chalet, in which the painter Balthus spent his final years.
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Attractions for visitors
> From St-Cergue to Romainmôtier: 46 km. Hiking time: a total of 12:30 hours over 2–3 days. www.parcjuravaudois.ch
> Round trip from the Chalet-à-Gobet: 11.7 km. Hiking time: 3 hours.
Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park
The Swiss National Park, which has been in existence for over 100 years, has its own legislative basis. The park is one of the best protected wild areas in the Alps.
Regional nature park A regional nature park covers a rural area characterised by a diversity of natural features, rich biodiversity and unique cultural assets such as the Rhaetian Railway in Parc Ela (in Graubünden). These values should not only be preserved and enhanced, but also used to develop the region sustainably.
The wild west of Lucerne Almost no other region can boast as many natural treasures as the “Wild West of Lucerne”. It’s no wonder that Entlebuch has been listed as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. An enchanting universe unfolds here: unspoiled mires alternate with idyllic Alpine meadows and pastures, above which Schrattenfluh mountain thrones majestically. Whether you visit the Kneipp spa centre, take a guided tour, follow the mire trail or visit the mire adventure park Mooraculum: Entlebuch is simply inspirational. Mooraculum – the biggest mire adventure park in the Alps Mooraculum and the Sonnentauweg round walk offer a wide range of experiences in and around the mystical topic of the mire or marshland. The Rossweid ob Sörenberg area is full of natural wonders which can be discovered, smelled, felt, enjoyed and tasted at the park.
> Sonnentau trail circuit, starts and ends in Rossweid: 1.5 km. Hiking time: 1 hour. www.mooraculum.ch “Genuine Entlebuch” culinary delights Enjoy a culinary experience at the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. The Entlebuch biosphere and its landscape are as varied as its wide selection of regional products. The “genuine Entlebuch” brand will surprise you with its wide range of dairy, meat and other food and beverage specialties. The products are made using primary products from the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, are then produced and refined by partner businesses. They are deeply rooted in the region and showcase its unmistakeable identity.
Vaud 22 km2 20 8
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Fribourg and Vaud Area: 503 km2 Population: 14 500 Municipalities: 13
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Bern and Fribourg Area: 404 km2 Population: 37 100 Municipalities: 22
Binntal Regional Nature Park
Beverin Regional Nature Park
Parc Ela
Strong roots. Hidden treasures. The Binntal Nature Park offers surprises at every turn. This tributary valley in the Valais is rich in minerals, waiting to be discovered among the stones at the Lengenbach quarry or on tours with an amateur geologist. Each summer the well-preserved mountain village of Ernen becomes a place of music, with classical concerts of international standing. In Grengiols a unique type of wild tulip blooms in the rye fields in May. Niederwald is the hometown of Cesar Ritz, who founded the Ritz-Carlton hotel chain. And there is something for gourmets too: the Binntal Nature Park is home to many excellent restaurants.
Home of the ibex Four valleys, two cultures, one Park. The Beverin Regional Nature Park is known for its deep gorges, intact townscapes, crystal-clear mountain lakes and ibexes, called “capricorn” in Romansh. These majestic animals thrive on the steep cliffs around Piz Beverin (2998 metres) and watch over the Beverin Nature Park, whose wild and natural landscape stretches across 412 square kilometres, giving a feeling of endlessness.
Discover and experience Parc Ela lies at the heart of Graubünden and brings together the three linguistic cultures Romansh, Italian and German. With steep mountainsides and expansive valleys, surrounded by glaciers and mountain lakes, the park still has a sense of wilderness. The historical villages in the valleys with their baroque churches are a reminder of the former importance of the trade routes via the Albula, Julier and Septimer Alpine passes. The scenery, the people and their products make the Parc Ela unique!
Römerweg – Roman Road The hiking trail starts in the village of Binn, famous for its minerals, and continues along the historical path through the wild and romantic Twingi Gorge to the “auf dem Blatt”
chapel. It then leads past the picturesque hamlet of Hockmatta to Bächerhischere and on to Grengiols, which is famous for its unique tulips. > From Binn to Grengiols: 12 km. Hiking time: 3 hours. www.wanderland.ch/en/routes/ route-0169.html Music village of Ernen The music village of Ernen has become well known far beyond the borders of Switzerland for its piano week and its baroque and chamber music festival. Every summer the exceptional classical music festival is staged in the midst of breathtaking scenery, thanks to the initiative of the now deceased pianist György Sebök.
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Via Capricorn The Via Capricorn is a three-day hike through Beverin federal nohunting zone, where ibex enjoy free rein. The hike starts and ends at the Hotel Restaurant Capricorns in Wergenstein. Former bridle paths take you up to the Glaspass on Heinzenberg, the end of the first stage. On the second stage the path leads down to the Safiental, and the third takes you from Turra-
hus via the Farcletta digl Lai Grand back to Wergenstein. The Via Capricorn is a demanding mountain hike, and even experienced mountain walkers need to allow 8–9 hours for each of the three stages. > Round trip from Wergenstein: 49 km. Hiking time: 3 days www.viamala.ch Gaping gorges – exhilarating experiences Viamala, Roffla and Ruinaulta – these three gorges are impressive natural features in the park and form the gateways to its four valleys. Discover the myth-enshrouded Viamala Gorge, the majestic trail to the Roffla Gorge waterfall or the unique countryside of the Ruinaulta. An exhilarating experience is guaranteed!
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Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Bern 136 km2 2400 2
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Swiss National Park
Alp Flix mire landscape The Flix Alpine meadow and mire landscape is renowned for its species diversity. Children can discover nature at six locations using the researcher kit. A day of excitement and experience is guaranteed with the insect vacuum, magnifying glass and plaster for casting animal tracks. The researcher kit can be obtained on the trail.
> Research trail: 3 km. Hiking time: 3 hours with experiments. www.parc-ela.ch Rhaetian Railway: UNESCO World Heritage Site The Albula line of the Rhaetian Railway opened in 1903 and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Considering the conditions at the time, the construction of the railway was a gigantic project, comparable to today’s New Rail Link through the Alps. On the Albula Railway Adventure Trail or in the Railway Museum in Bergün, visitors can explore the history of the Rhaetian Railway and its impact on the everyday life of the people in the region.
Pure wilderness! The Swiss National Park represents a pioneering achievement in the context of nature conservation in Europe. Established as the first Alpine national park in 1914, it has the highest classification as a wilderness area. In addition to all plants and animals, all natural processes in the Swiss National Park are protected. The 80 kilometres of marked hiking trails enable visitors to experience this fascinating landscape and its dynamics at close quarters without causing any major disturbance to natural processes. The Swiss National Park, the neighbouring Biosfera Val Müstair and the municipality of Scuol have jointly formed the UNESCO Engiadina Val Müstair Biosphere Reserve since 2010. Margunet The Margunet nature trail leads through the Ofenpass forests to high Alpine meadows rich in flora and fauna and provides a glorious panoramic
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Valais 277 km2 11 300 12
Biosfera Val Müstair
view over half the national park. It also provides interesting information about the open and hidden secrets along the route. > From Stabelchod (car park P8) to Il Fuorn: 8 km. Hiking time: 3 hours. www.nationalpark.ch/en/visit/ trails-routes Zernez Visitors Centre The Zernez visitors centre was opened in 2008 and is housed in a striking, monolithic building designed by the Graubünden architect Valerio Olgiati. The beauty of the Swiss National Park can be explored there using modern technology and solid mechanical devices. The centre includes an exhibition, audio guides in five languages, a discovery trail for children, seasonal special exhibitions, a shop and information point. Starting on 1 May 2019: special exhibition on wolves. http://www.nationalpark.ch/en/ visit/national-park-centre/
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Naturally different! Naturally different, the idyllic Val Müstair is a world in itself. Lush green meadows and picturesque villages form a stark contrast to the wild nature of the nearby National Park. For this reason, its unique landscape has been given two honours: The Val Müstaire was named a Regional Nature Park in 2011 and made part of the UNESCO Engiadina Val Müstaire Biosphere Reserve, along with the Swiss National Park and parts of the municipality of Scuol. A la Riva dal Rom – on the banks of the Rom This thematic hike starts at the source of the Rom above Tschierv. From here the route winds its way for 14 kilometres following the natural path of the Rom via Fuldera, Valchava and Santa Maria as far as Müstair. The trail’s beauty lies in the wealth of fascinating scenery, from enchanting wetlands and
dense larch forests to striking marshlands and flowering meadows. > A la riva dal Rom: 14 km, 3–4 hours www.biosfera.ch/de/erlebnisseangebote/la-riva-dal-rom Promenada William Wolfensberger This sunny panoramic trail with a total of five benches was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of poet William Wolfensberger. What Wolfensberger describes in his poems is right before your eyes here. In addition, you can enjoy a free view of the impressive peaks of Piz Daint and Piz Dora. > Promenada William Wolfensberger: 3,5 km, 1 hour 30 min. www.biosfera.ch/de/erlebnisseangebote/promenada-williamwolfensberger
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Location: centrally located between Lucerne and Bern
UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch Chlosterbüel 28 6170 Schüpfheim Tel. 041 485 88 50 zentrum@biosphaere.ch www.biosphaere.ch
Location: Upper Valais, 13 km from Brig
Landschaftspark Binntal Postfach 20 3996 Binn Tel. 027 971 50 50 info@landschaftspark-binntal.ch www.landschaftspark-binntal.ch
Location: Central Graubünden, approx. 35 km south-west of Chur, approx. 160 km from Zurich
Naturpark Beverin Center da Capricorns 7433 Wergenstein Tel. 081 650 70 10 info@naturpark-beverin.ch www.naturpark-beverin.ch
Location: Albula region: Tiefencastel, Filisur, Bergün, Savognin, Bivio
Info- und Buchungsstelle Parc Ela Stradung 42 7460 Savognin Tel. 081 659 16 18 info@parc-ela.ch www.parc-ela.ch
Location: In the Engadine, approx. 170 km from Zurich
Schweizerischer Nationalpark Schloss Planta-Wildenberg 7530 Zernez Tel. 081 851 41 41 info@nationalpark.ch www.nationalpark.ch
Location: Val Müstair, 60 km from St. Moritz and 130 km from Chur
Biosfera Val Müstair Center da Biosfera 7532 Tschierv Tel. 081 850 09 09 info@biosfera.ch www.biosfera.ch
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Lucerne 394 km2 17 800 7
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Valais 180 km2 1300 5
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Graubünden 412 km2 3200 11
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Graubünden 548 km2 5400 6
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Graubünden 170.3 km2 0 4
Canton: Area: Population: Municipalities:
Graubünden 199 km2 1600 1