Auswil is located in the Oberaargau region of the Swiss Plateau. From the Auswil heights, there are excellent panoramic views stretching from Glärnisch across the Central Swiss and Bernese Alps to Stockhorn. The view also takes in the upper part of the Langeten Valley and, farther in the distance, the Jura and the Swiss Plateau in front of it. It therefore encompasses both distant alpine landmarks and the nearby valley, reaching as far as the landscapes of the Swiss Plateau. The view unfolds in layers: the Langeten Valley is closer, while the Jura and Swiss Plateau appear farther away. If you value varied panoramic landscapes when choosing a destination, the heights offer a clear focal point.

Hills, hamlets and landscape

The sandstone plateau of the higher Oberaargau, where Auswil covers 462 hectares of gentle hills, took on its present form during the last ice age. Meadows, fields and streams shape the landscape; the five hamlets are surrounded by extensive woodlands. Auswil is a dispersed settlement comprising Oberauswil, Unterauswil, Hermandingen, Aerbolligen and Rohrbachberg. Its agricultural character is also part of the village’s identity. Together, the plateau, open farmland, streams and wooded hamlets create a landscape that is not centred on one compact village centre, but consists of several settlement areas and their surroundings.

Hiking trails and viewpoints

The surrounding area can also be explored along trails that pass several named places. The Langenthal–Huttwil hiking trail crosses the Auswil heights. The “In the Footsteps of the Hiking Trail Pioneers” route passes through Ober Auswil/Chappeli, offering expansive panoramic views; it follows only signposted hiking trails. The two hiking routes have different focal points: one crosses the Auswil heights, while the other takes in the panoramic viewpoint at Ober Auswil/Chappeli. In addition, the scenic hike from Gutenberg to Dürrenroth passes through Auswil and Huttwil.

Hornussen and local history

Hornussen, a traditional Swiss team sport, offers another perspective on the village’s history. The Auswil-Wyssbach Hornussen society also welcomes visitors in person at its playing field. As arrangements for visits may change, it is advisable to check what options are currently available. New junior players are always warmly welcome; anyone interested in taking part should contact the society in advance to ask about current opportunities.

From the early 1950s, the society played on Paul Flückiger’s land in Hermandingen for more than 35 years. This location links the tradition to one of the five hamlets. Auswil’s first recorded mention dates back even further: it appears in a 9th-century document from the Abbey of St. Gall. Together, these two periods provide a brief historical overview: an early written record and a local sporting tradition upheld over several decades.

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Auswil, you can plan your stay around two specific interests: panoramas and hiking trails, or the local history of Hornussen.

Discover more destinations: Gondiswil, Aarwangen, Lotzwil, Langenthal, Rohrbach, Leimiswil, Bannwil, Rohrbachgraben

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