Aussichtsturm Blueme

Aussichtsturm Blueme is a lookout tower above Sigriswil in the canton of Bern, standing on the Blueme ridge high over Lake Thun. Built in 1984, the tower is roughly 16 metres tall, and the hilltop beneath it is quoted at between 1,391 and 1,395 metres above sea level. It is a favourite hiking goal in this corner of the Bernese Oberland.

What can you see from the Blueme tower?

The platform gathers several different landscapes into one view. To the south rise the Bernese Alps, Lake Thun lies far below, and to the north the eye reaches the Emmental valley and the ridges of the Jura. Because the tower rises above the treetops, the outlook is unobstructed, unlike the clearing at its foot where forest blocks part of the horizon.

How do you get to Blueme?

There is no road access for cars. You arrive on foot, by mountain bike, or by combining a bus ride with a walk. The usual routes are:

• From Sigriswil via the Panoramabrücke and Margel: an easy 6.4 km walk of about 2.5 hours, crossing the suspension bridge and continuing through Margel and Tschingelallmi.
• From Schwanden along the Sirius planet trail: about 8 km, also around 2.5 hours and very easy.
• From Goldiwil via Heiligenschwendi: a ridge walk of roughly 10.7 km taking close to 3 hours 50 minutes, moderate difficulty, with a descent through Margel to Sigriswil.
• Loop from Schwendi: around 10 km and 3 hours of walking.

The last stretch up to the tower can be steep, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.

What facilities are there?

A fire pit sits at the foot of the tower, with firewood, tables and benches provided. Many hikers stop here to grill sausages. Bring your own food and carry your rubbish back down to the valley.

When is the best time to visit?

The walking season runs roughly from April to November. Pick a clear day for the best views of the Alps. In spring and autumn the valley is often filled with morning fog, and the tower stands above it. In winter the paths can be icy or snowy, which slows the walk.

What else fits into the trip?

The route from Sigriswil naturally links the tower with the Panoramabrücke, an attraction in its own right. The walk from Schwanden follows a themed trail about the planets of the solar system. For many visitors the tower is one stop on a full-day outing rather than the only goal.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for the Blueme tower? We found no information about a fee for the tower itself. Crossing the Panoramabrücke does cost money if you take the Sigriswil route that uses it.

How long is the walk from Sigriswil? The classic route via the Panoramabrücke and Margel is about 6.4 km and takes roughly 2.5 hours one way.

Can you light a fire there? Yes, there is a designated fire pit with wood on site. Follow fire safety rules and put the fire out before you leave.

Can you reach the tower by bike? Yes, mountain bikes can get to Blueme, though the final section is steep. The alternative is to take a bus to Schwanden or Sigriswil and continue on foot.