Elfenaupark

Elfenaupark in Bern is a large landscape park on the city's south-eastern edge, close to the Aare. Once the country estate of a Russian grand duchess, it is now one of Bern's most important recreation areas and a historic garden of national significance.

Where does Elfenaupark come from?

The park dates back to 1814, when Anna Feodorovna (1781-1860), a grand duchess of the St Petersburg court who had left her unloved husband and come to Switzerland, bought the Brunnadern estate. She renamed it Elfenau, "meadow of the elves". Legend says the name recalls a morning when the meadow in front of the house shimmered with dew, as if elves had been dancing on it.

The 18th-century manor was remodelled in Empire style and surrounded by an English-style landscape park, with the architect Joseph Baumann credited with the plan. During the 1820s she bought further land in the municipality of Muri, and the new areas were shaped to fit the existing design. After her death in 1860 the estate passed to the von Wattenwyl family, and since 1918 it has belonged to the City of Bern.

What is there to see?

Around 40 hectares of meadows, mature trees, avenues and open viewpoints surround the former manor and its farm buildings. Since 1928/29 the city nursery, now Stadtgrün Bern, has been based on the grounds, with greenhouses and workshops. The old orangery houses Parkcafé Orangerie, and a working farm still operates in the park. A waterfall opened in 2014 gives a contemporary take on the garden's historic water features. A city conservation plan (Parkpflegewerk, 2009) protects the park and gradually restores its original layout.

How do you get there?

Elfenau lies a few kilometres from the centre of Bern, in the district of the same name. City public transport runs from the main station, and walking paths along the Aare lead into the park from the riverside. Entry is free and the grounds are open as public green space.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring to autumn is ideal: blossom in spring, shade and open meadows in summer, colourful foliage in autumn. Café hours change with the season, so check Stadtgrün Bern or the city website before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is Elfenaupark free to enter? Yes. It is a public city park with no admission charge.

Why is it called Elfenau? Grand Duchess Anna Feodorovna chose the name after buying the estate. According to legend it refers to elves dancing on a dewy morning meadow.

Is there a café in the park? Yes, Parkcafé Orangerie in the former orangery, open seasonally, usually from spring to autumn.

How much time should I plan? One to two hours covers the main paths; allow half a day if you walk down to the Aare and stop at the café.