Dittligsee

Dittligsee is a small lake in Forst-Längenbühl, in the canton of Bern, a short distance from Thun. It sits at 652 m above sea level between Blumenstein and Wattenwil and covers roughly 6 hectares. A reed belt rings most of the shore, so the open water is best seen from the jetty and the designated swimming spot.

Where is Dittligsee and what is it like?

The lake lies on the eastern edge of the Gantrisch Nature Park, in the Gürbetal valley. The surroundings are quiet farmland, and the small lakes of this area are under nature protection, which is why the shoreline has stayed largely undeveloped. Water leaves through the Dittligseebach into the Fallbach, which finally joins the Gürbe river.

People lived here long ago. Dugout canoes from the Neolithic period have turned up in both Dittligsee and nearby Geistsee. The village of Längenbühl first appears in records in 1493, and in 2007 it merged with Forst to form today's municipality.

What can you do at the lake?

• Stroll along the reeds — an easy, family-friendly walk with views across the water and meadows.
• Wooden jetty on the west bank — a good spot for a rest or photos.
• Swimming — allowed at your own risk, with no lifeguard. Enter and leave the water only at the marked spot.
• Grizzly adventure park — a family attraction at the lake entrance, with a mini golf course. The Grizzlybär inn on the south shore serves food and drinks.

The lake also appears on easy hiking routes, such as Seftigen to Amsoldingen or Uetendorf to the Grizzly park.

How do you get to Dittligsee?

A bus from Thun stops right at the lake, and the shore is freely accessible. For a longer walk, start in Uetendorf or Seftigen and continue on foot.

When should you visit?

Summer suits swimming and picnics, when the inn and park are open. Spring and autumn are calmer, and the reeds show their best colours. Water quality has limits: cantonal monitoring reports low oxygen in the deeper layers, so this is a lake for walks and a relaxed dip rather than serious swimming.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Dittligsee? Yes, at your own risk and without a lifeguard. Use only the designated entry point.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the shore is open to everyone. Attractions in the Grizzly park may cost extra.

Can you reach it by public transport? Yes. A bus from Thun stops at the lake.

Is it good for a trip with children? Yes. Easy paths, a jetty, mini golf and the adventure park make it a good half-day outing.