Best canyons around Bowil, a municipality in the Bern-Mittelland administrative district in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, offer diverse natural experiences. While the region is known for its general proximity to Swiss attractions, it features several notable gorges. These geological formations provide opportunities for exploration within a natural landscape. The area around Bowil is characterized by its varied terrain, including forests and waterways.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Cross country, partly swampy, good footwear recommended
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Yes, a farmer actually spotted a bear back there and was able to photograph it. This was about 3 years ago. Since then things have become quiet again, at least around the bear. But of course it's very quiet at the back in Eriz and there really doesn't seem to be any hustle and bustle. Totally secluded and yet close to Thun and Bern.
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The path has many steep steps, bike often has to be carried, but the Zulggraben is impressive
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This section cannot be recommended for biking, I carried the bike down and up, but the buildings and nature are impressive
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You can go along the stream up to the right and come to cool bathing spots and the waterfall. The adventure is worth it!
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In the last ice age ice stream and water formed the gorge of the Räbloch. What remains is the natural bridge over which you can now take a particularly impressive look into the depths.
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The canyons in the region around Bowil offer a variety of natural features. You can find impressive geological formations like the natural bridge at Räbloch Gorge, which was shaped by ice and water during the last ice age. Other gorges, such as Rotache Gorge, feature beautiful waterfalls and lush forests. Many also provide scenic viewpoints and opportunities to explore rivers and streams.
Yes, if you're looking for a tranquil experience, Eriz Valley is known for its secluded atmosphere. Despite its proximity to larger towns like Thun and Bern, it offers a very quiet environment, perfect for those seeking peace and solitude in nature.
Absolutely. Rotache Gorge is a great place to visit if you're interested in waterfalls and bathing. You can follow the stream to discover cool bathing spots and enjoy the waterfall. Good footwear is recommended as some areas can be cross-country and swampy.
The gorges around Bowil offer varying difficulty levels. Many, like Eriz Valley, Räbloch Gorge, and Rotache Gorge, are considered intermediate. However, some sections, such as parts of Eselstäg Gorge and Zulggraben Gorge, are described as challenging with steep steps, often requiring bikes to be carried.
The region around Bowil offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the 'Bench With View of the Alps' loop or the 'Ruins of Alt-Schloss Signau' loop. For cycling enthusiasts, there are extensive road cycling routes and touring bicycle paths, some offering panoramic views of the Emmental and even Lake Thun. Explore more options on the Hiking around Bowil, Road Cycling Routes around Bowil, and Cycling around Bowil guide pages.
Yes, several gorges provide excellent viewpoints. At Räbloch Gorge, a natural bridge allows for an impressive look into the depths. Other gorges like Eselstäg Gorge and Zulggraben Gorge are also noted for their viewpoints, offering stunning perspectives of the natural landscape.
For exploring gorges like Rotache Gorge, good footwear is highly recommended. Some areas can be cross-country and partly swampy, especially if you plan to venture off the main path to find bathing spots or the waterfall. Always be prepared for varied terrain.
Eriz Valley is known for its secluded and quiet atmosphere, making it a unique escape. It's relatively close to Thun and Bern, yet feels very remote. It's an intermediate-level gorge, offering a peaceful natural experience away from crowds.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural experiences offered by the gorges around Bowil. The geological formations, such as the natural bridge at Räbloch Gorge, the waterfalls and bathing spots in Rotache Gorge, and the secluded tranquility of Eriz Valley, are frequently highlighted. The variety of terrain, including forests and waterways, also adds to the appeal.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, gorges like Eselstäg Gorge and Zulggraben Gorge offer more demanding terrain. These paths often feature many steep steps, and cyclists may find themselves needing to carry their bikes through certain sections. The impressive natural formations make the effort worthwhile for experienced adventurers.
Räbloch Gorge holds significant geological importance as it was formed by the powerful forces of ice streams and water during the last ice age. This natural process created the impressive gorge and its distinctive natural bridge, which now offers visitors a unique perspective into its depths.


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