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About this place
Sieben Hengste is a mountain massif in the Emmental Alps of the canton of Bern, Switzerland, near Horrenbach-Buchen and Lake Thun. It sits north of Habkern, and its highest summit is called Chibe. The name means "seven stallions", a nod to the jagged ridge with its several tops. Beneath the surface lies one of the largest cave systems on Earth.
What makes Sieben Hengste special?
The limestone here is heavily karstified, which is why the Sieben Hengste–Hohgant cave system runs underneath. It is the second-longest cave in Switzerland, behind the Hölloch in Muotathal, and ranks among the ten biggest worldwide. Independent visitors cannot enter; it is the domain of experienced caving teams. Hikers can still spot the Häliloch beside the trail near Oberburgfeld, a shaft about 100 metres deep that belongs to the same network and is closed to the public.
The geology is easy to read in the landscape: dark molasse forms the lower part of the ridge, with pale limestone above. The Sichle saddle was shaped by a side arm of the Aare glacier, which widened it into a trough during the Ice Age.
How do you explore it on foot?
The classic route runs from Merligen on Lake Thun through the quiet Justistal and over the Sichle pass (1,679 m) to Innereriz, or the other way round. Listings put it at roughly 15 km and 5 to 6 hours of walking, so bring stamina and sturdy boots. A tougher option leads from the Niederhorn down to Beatenberg Schmocken, about 10.5 km in around 3.5 hours.
When should you go?
The trails are hiking routes, so aim for the snow-free months of summer and early autumn. Check the forecast before setting off; this is high-mountain terrain where the weather can turn quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sieben Hengste? In the Emmental Alps in the canton of Bern, north of Habkern and close to Lake Thun and the Justistal valley.
Can you visit the caves? Not as an ordinary tourist. The Sieben Hengste–Hohgant system is meant for cavers, and the Häliloch by the trail is not open to visitors.
How high is the Sichle pass? It lies at 1,679 m above sea level and is the high point of the popular Justistal route.
How long does the Merligen to Innereriz hike take? About 5 to 6 hours depending on pace, over roughly 15 km.
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