Aare Gorge

The basics

The gorge can be entered from either its east or west side, making it a common and convenient stop on full- or multi-day tours of the Bernese Oberland. Tours typically depart major cities including Lucerne and Zurich and combine the sight with other natural attractions such as the Rhone Glacier, Grimsel Pass, or Giessbach Waterfalls. You’ll need around an hour to traverse its scenic walkways and get the best pictures against the roaring Aare below.

Things to know before you go

*The wheelchair-accessed route runs between the gorge’s west entrance and its middle. *Some tours include admission; otherwise, you’ll need cash to pay on arrival. *There are bathrooms, a restaurant, and a small gift shop on site. *Be prepared to get a little damp–pack a light coat if you’re worried.

How to get there

From Bern, it takes about an hour to drive to the Aare Gorge and around two by train, with a change at Meiringen for the little local railway. The main entrance to the gorge is a minute’s walk from Aareschlucht West, though the same service also travels to the underground Aareschluct Ost station. Parking at the west entrance is free.

When to get there

Aare Gorge is open to the public between April to November. In July and August, floodlights keep the site open well into the evening, affording atmospheric views of the cave tunnels, green-hued Aare, and dramatic ravine drops.

The Queen of the Bernese Oberland

Jungfrau is undoubtedly the reigning monarch in the Bernese Oberland, making her a must-see while in the region. You’ll need a few hours to explore, so look out for multi-day packages that include a full-day mountain excursion along with sights such as Aare Gorge for a more comprehensive overview of the unique Alpine landscape.