The Aare Gorge walkway is one of the best nature excursions in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The Aare Gorge canyon was carved in limestone by the river Aare over 10,000 years ago. The narrow passage is 3-98 ft (1-30 m) wide and 1.2 mi (2 km) long. The dramatic experience is enhanced by towering cliffs up to 160 feet (50 m) in height. The maximum depth of Aare Gorge is about 656 feet (200 m). The attraction, located near the town of Meiringen, can be visited from April to October.
The 1-mi (1.6-km) path is constructed from metal and wood. A short section goes through a tunnel. Both entrances to the walkway are linked to the Meiringen-Innertkirchen railway. Visitors can exit the train either at Aareschlucht West station at the western end of the gorge or at Aareschlucht Ost station on the eastern side.
The hike through Aare Gorge is easy and suitable for all ages. It takes about 45 minutes, and visitors can go back to a station via the Lammi Pass hiking trail. A cafe and a kiosk are located near the entrance to the walkway. It's also possible to visit nearby Reichenbach Falls, famous for a scene where Professor Moriarty tried to kill Sherlock Holmes.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Aare Gorge?
Aare Gorge, located in Switzerland, is a fascinating site that is best visited between April and November when the weather is mild. At this time, visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the gorge without enduring cold, hot, or rainy weather. Note that the gorge is closed from mid-November to mid-April in winter. Show more
Where is Aare Gorge located in Switzerland?
Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, Aare Gorge can be found near the town of Meiringen. The gorge is easily accessible by public transport and situate between two railway stations, Aareschlucht West and Aareschlucht Ost, both linked to the Meiringen-Innertkirchen railway. Show more
How long does it take to complete the Aare Gorge walk?
The Aare Gorge walk through the narrow passage, which is 1.6km long and constructed of metal and wood, takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. Suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, the walking route extends between Aareschlucht West station and Aareschlucht Ost station, which visitors can exit at either end. Show more
Are there any other attractions to visit near Aare Gorge?
Switzerland's Aare Gorge has other noteworthy attractions nearby, such as the Reichenbach Falls. This place is famous for a Sherlock Holmes scene and can be easily accessed via the Meiringen-Innertkirchen railway. Other local amenities include a kiosk and a café near the entrance to the walkway that serve drinks and snacks. Show more
What is the maximum depth of Aare Gorge?
Towering cliffs of up to 50 meters in height enhance the dramatic sight of Switzerland's Aare Gorge, which beckons visitors with a narrow passage between 1-30 meters wide. The crystal clear waters of the river Aare flow in depths of up to 656 feet or 200 meters, beckoning visitors to revel in the beauty of nature's power and enjoy a 40-minute walk through the canyon. Show more
