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About this place
Bantiger is a 947 m hill in the municipality of Bolligen, just east of Bern in Switzerland. It rises north of the Emmental Alps between Ittigen and Stettlen and counts among the highest points around the Swiss capital. A broadcast tower crowns the summit, and visitors can climb it to a public viewing deck.
What is there to see on Bantiger?
The main landmark is the Bern-Bantiger TV and radio tower, roughly 196 m tall. Construction of the present structure began in the early 1990s and it opened in 1997. It replaced a 60 m mast from 1954, which served as Switzerland's second television transmitter site.
The public viewing platform sits about 34 m above the summit. Unlike most broadcast towers, it has no lift: you climb a staircase inside an attached lattice frame. On a clear day the deck shows Bern, the Gantrisch range and the peaks of the Bernese Alps.
How do you get up Bantiger?
Several trails lead to the top, and the hill makes a good half-day outing.
- From the Cholgruebe car park (875 m): a loop of about 9.4 km and 3 hours with around 433 m of ascent, passing Chlosteralp, the Laufenbad restaurant area and Geristein. The climb needs reasonable fitness and the steep descent needs sure footing.
- From Krauchthal: a route of about 9 km and 2 h 50 min via Fluehüsli and the summit to Geristein and Bolligen.
The access road to the tower and summit is closed to general traffic, so the last stretch is done on foot or by bike. Road cyclists and mountain bikers also favour the area.
When should you go?
Pick a day with good visibility, when the Alpine panorama opens up from the platform. Trails are usable for much of the year, though the steep descent can be slippery after rain. Check tower access times on bern.com or the Bolligen municipal site before you set out.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Bantiger?
The summit is 947 m above sea level and the tower is about 196 m tall.
Is there a lift up the tower?
No. You reach the viewing deck by stairs.
How long is the hike?
Typical loop routes cover 9 to 9.5 km and take about 3 hours.
Can I drive to the top?
No. The road to the tower is closed to general traffic, so leave the car at a car park such as Cholgruebe.
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