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About this place
Chuderhüsi Tower in Röthenbach im Emmental is a 42-metre wooden lookout rising above the forest in the Swiss canton of Bern. From the top you see the Bernese Alps and, on a clear day, the distant Jura.
What makes the tower special?
It is built of white fir timber, with the viewing platform at 37 metres, reached by 195 steps. The first tower went up in 1998 as part of the municipality's anniversary celebrations, fire destroyed it in 2001, and the rebuilt tower has stood since 2002. Until 2010 it held the title of Switzerland's tallest wooden tower, later taken by the Frienisberg tower. You may also see it called Aussichtsturm Gauchernwald, after the surrounding woods.
What can you see from the top?
The platform gives a full 360-degree panorama. To the south rise the peaks of the Bernese Alps, while forested ridges and pastures typical of the Emmental spread out below. In very clear conditions the Jura range shows up in the northwest. Mornings and the days after a weather front usually offer the sharpest air.
How do you get to the tower?
The tower lies about 15 km northeast of Thun. In season the BLS Wanderbus helps: for 2026 (25 April to 1 November), bus 271 from Signau runs on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays to the Chuderhüsi stop. From there a short forest path leads to the tower in a few minutes. If you drive, check parking beforehand, as access is via local roads.
Which hikes start here?
- Chuderhüsi – Würzbrunnen – Röthenbach – Eggiwil: about 11.4 km, roughly 3 hours, easy; passes the Würzbrunnen pilgrimage church.
- Chuderhüsi – Würzbrunnen – Röthenbach – Vorder Naters – Süderen: about 9.9 km, around 3 hours 10 minutes.
- Linden – Chuderhüsi – Röthenbach: about 9.4 km, around 3 hours, roughly 390 m of ascent.
- A longer ridge route from Oberdiessbach via Churzenberg takes about 4 hours 45 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The tower is free and open all year.
How many steps are there?
195 steps lead to the platform at 37 metres.
When is the best time to visit?
The Wanderbus runs on weekends and holidays from late April to 1 November. For views, pick a clear day, ideally in the morning.
Is it suitable for families?
The walk from the bus stop is short and nearby trails are gentle, but the climb up the stairs takes some stamina.
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