Gurten

Gurten is an 858 m hill just south of central Bern, in the municipality of Köniz. Locals call it their Hausberg, the home mountain: a funicular carries visitors up to a summit with wide views, a family park and places to eat.

How do I get to Gurten?

Head for Wabern, a district on the Bern–Köniz border. The valley station of the Gurtenbahn is a few steps from the stop. The funicular takes about five minutes and runs every 15 minutes. City public transport connects central Bern with Wabern. The summit has been car-free since the 1950s, so cars stay in the valley.

What will I see at the top?

The view takes in Bern's old town and the Swiss Plateau, the Bernese Alps on a clear day and the Jura in the other direction. A small pyramid-shaped survey marker sits on the highest point. Gurtenpark has a miniature railway for children, playgrounds, restaurants and barbecue spots, and the Gurten-Kulm hotel dates back to the early years of the railway.

Where does the funicular come from?

A first concession for a cable railway on Gurten was granted in 1885, but the project never went ahead. A new one followed in 1893 and passed to Fritz Marti of Winterthur in 1897. The company "Electrische Gurtenbahn" was founded in 1898, and the line opened in September 1899. The last major overhaul came in 1999, with two 120-passenger cars. Since 16 May 2024 a new funicular has run with a lift at the valley station, panoramic windows and the same capacity. The middle station is still not step-free.

When should I go?

The funicular runs daily from 7:00. Monday to Saturday the last uphill ride is late evening, on Sundays and holidays earlier, so check the operator's timetable. Spring and summer suit views, picnics and barbecues best. In mid-summer Gurten hosts the Gurtenfestival, one of Switzerland's larger music festivals, and some barbecue spots may be closed during it. The Gurten Classic race is also held here every year.

FAQ

Can I walk up Gurten?

Yes. The hill is a classic walking destination for people from Bern, and the funicular is only one option. From Wabern expect a steep climb and wear proper shoes.

Is Gurten good with children?

Yes. Gurtenpark has a miniature railway and playgrounds, and the funicular ride is a treat in itself.

Is this the same as Gurten in Austria?

No. The Austrian municipality of Gurten is in Upper Austria. This hill is in the canton of Bern, Switzerland.

Is the funicular accessible by wheelchair?

The valley station in Wabern has had a lift since 2024. The middle station remains without step-free access.