Oberhünigen lies 852 metres above sea level on the north-western slope of the Kurzenberg, in the Bärbachtälchen area and high above the Chise valley basin. With 320 inhabitants (as of 31 December 2022), the municipality is small and is a farming village. At 1,190 metres above sea level, Aebersold is the highest point in Oberhünigen and also a recreation area.

Hiking in the municipality

Several hiking trails make it possible to explore the municipal area. One specifically named route runs from Zäziwil to Bowil via Appenberg, Oberhünigen, Aebersold and Ringgis. The hiking trail network and the listed route therefore offer two different ways to find your bearings: you can explore the municipal area or follow the sequence of places on this route. Before setting out, check the trail conditions and local markings.

Aebersold, Toppwald and Tanzplatz

The Toppwald borders the Aebersold recreation area directly and covers 360 hectares. The Tanzplatz is located almost exactly in the middle of the forest. A picnic table stands there in front of a hut managed by the Schwand state forestry service. There is also a fire pit at the Tanzplatz for barbecuing. This named location therefore combines a point of reference in the forest with practical options for taking a break or grilling.

The Toppwald also has its own historical story: it was once part of Wyl Castle. After the bailiwicks were dissolved in 1800, the forest passed to the Canton of Bern. This history adds a perspective on the forest’s past to the present-day point of reference at the Tanzplatz.

History of the village

Oberhünigen’s political history can also be told in clear stages. The municipality was initially part of the Hünigen lordship, then came under the lordship of Wil, and in 1406 came under Bernese rule. Former baths are another part of local history: the Wildeney bath was one of two baths in Oberhünigen. The Schwendlen bath was destroyed by fire in 1947 and was not rebuilt. The two bathing sites thus represent different aspects of the area’s history; in the case of the Schwendlen bath, the end of its operation is also recorded.

Farm shop and getting here

Another place to visit is the farm shop at Grunderhof. It offers a varied selection of farm products to browse and buy on site. The range may change, so you should not count on specific products being available on an ongoing basis.

For your journey, it is important to know that Oberhünigen has no direct public transport connection, but is within reach of the railway stations at Zäziwil and Konolfingen. If you are planning to travel by train, check the current connections before your trip. The landscape, trail network, history and farm shop offer different highlights for your stay; which ones you combine depends on your plans.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Oberthal, Wichtrach, Münsingen, Konolfingen, Kiesen, Walkringen, Grosshöchstetten, Zäziwil.

Go to the higher-level travel overview: Konolfingen.