Saxeten lies at around 1,130 m above sea level, above Wilderswil, and is part of the LĂĽtschine valleys because the Saxetbach flows into the LĂĽtschine. This almost traffic-free mountain village is located in a high valley with peaceful, unspoiled and undeveloped nature. Numerous springs rise in the upper basin of the valley. The village combines this mountain landscape with hiking options ranging from an easy circular trail to more challenging mountain hikes, as well as an artwork connected to the Saxetbach and seasonal winter activities.
Hiking trails from the Saxetenbach to mountain hikes
The network of hiking and mountain trails ranges from an easy circular trail along the Saxetenbach, with forest nature-trail signs, to more challenging mountain hikes. The Saxeten Trail follows the wild, unspoiled Saxetbach and returns to its starting point by the Skipintli. It is rated easy and signposted in both directions. Another route from Saxeten leads via Bällenhöchst and Sulsseeli to the Lobhornhütte SAC, and continues to Isenfluh and Lauterbrunnen. Alp Innerberg lies on the Saxeten–Rengglipass hiking trail; its seasonal access conditions may vary.
The hike to Morgenberghorn leads from the schoolhouse in Saxeten to Aeschiried, Suld Pochtenfall. From the 2,249 m summit, it offers views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; visibility depends on the weather. On the route from Saxeten to Interlaken, the trail passes the Aabeberg viewpoint and takes approximately three hours. This is an estimate: conditions and your personal pace affect the actual walking time. The Fürst picnic area lies along this route, with a small shelter, benches, a wooden table, a fire pit and a fountain; use may be subject to local conditions.
Art and cultural landscape
The Saxeten Work is a growing sculpture by George Steinmann, created between 2002 and 2006. The three-part work comprises a footbridge, a hermitage and a site-specific installation at the University of Bern (UniS). The 19-metre-long bridge crosses the Saxetbach and provides access to the hiking trail that was interrupted by a storm in the summer of 2005.
The 16 m² hermitage can be reached via the Saxeten hiking trail. It offers everyone, regardless of origin, worldview, religion or physical condition, an opportunity to stop, reflect or meditate. From there, a line of sight opens to the north, down the valley, and to the south, towards the valley basin and the Schwalmere mountains. The Ramsermatte cultural landscape also brings together nature and culture: it received the Oberland-Ost regional cultural landscape award in 2012. The Ramsermatte includes wetlands and dry habitats. The diversity of its biotopes supports a rich variety of species, including numerous butterflies.
Winter activities subject to seasonal conditions
The toboggan run in Saxeten is about four kilometres long, traffic-free and well prepared; preparation depends on winter conditions. Moonlight tobogganing takes place annually. The Schlittelchilbi is also held every year and features traditional music and entertainment. Check the specific dates before planning your trip around these events. A small ski-tow lift for beginners is available by the Skipintli restaurant; its seasonal operation depends on snow and local conditions. When conditions permit, the Saxetenbach circular trail is cleared for walking.
Getting here and practical information
From the Wilderswil motorway exit, you can reach Saxeten by car in about 15 minutes. You can also take PostBus route 111 from Wilderswil to Saxeten; check the current timetable for your specific connection. The covered barbecue area in Chalberboden is open to the public and available for use. Local conditions or reservations for private events may affect access.
If you are considering Saxeten as a place to stay overnight, take its altitude and the starting points of your planned hikes into account. Several of the hikes described start in Saxeten, while other routes lead to named destinations such as Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen.
Discover more destinations: Ringgenberg, Bönigen, Wilderswil, Hofstetten Bei Brienz, Unterseen, Niederried Bei Interlaken, Brienzwiler, Gundlischwand.
Return to the main travel overview: Interlaken.
