Discover Gelterfingen through its history, trails through woodland and open countryside, and a farm shop. Kramburg is a focal point for a visit to the village; the hikes vary in distance, route, and mode of travel. You can choose what to explore locally based on whether you prefer to walk, cycle, or learn about the village’s history.
Kramburg and protected village sites
Gelterfingen was first mentioned in writing in 1345 under the name Geltolfingen. The seat of the Barons of Kramburg was located in Gelterfingen. Kramburg Castle stands on a rocky spur: its ramparts and ditches are still visible, but only a few remains of its walls have survived. The recognizable layout of the site thus contrasts clearly with the surviving building fabric.
The protected village area includes the Gelterfingen village conservation area. Other designated protected areas are the Gelterfingen landscape conservation area and the Gelterfingen archaeological conservation area; Gelterfingen’s dry habitat is also designated for protection. These designations draw attention to different aspects: the village character, the landscape, a dry habitat, and archaeological conservation interests.
Hikes with varied routes
This easy 7.8-kilometer hike runs from Kaufdorf via Gelterfingen and Gerzensee to Kirchdorf. Near Gelterfingen, it first follows a narrow forest path, climbs to the houses of Chramburg, and then continues along the edge of the forest. Along the way, there are views across the Gürbetal valley to the Stockhorn-Gantrisch range and the Bernese Alps. The route combines a forest path, a climb, and a trail along the forest edge with expansive views across the valley.
You can reach the start of this point-to-point hike by public transport: take the train from Thun or Bern to Kaufdorf and return from Kirchdorf by bus. BERNMOBIL route 166 runs between Toffen, Bahnhof, and Wichtrach, Dorfplatz; in Gelterfingen, it serves the Gelterfingen, Dorf, and Gelterfingen, Schulhaus stops. Check the current timetable before setting out.
Another option is the “Where Spring Makes Its Home” hike. It leads through the Gürbetal valley and along the southwestern flank of Belpberg. The landscape between Eggenhorn and Schlatt is characterized by preserved hedgerows, fruit and walnut trees, and majestic oaks along the trail. The hike along Lake Gerzensee follows a different route: shortly after Gelterfingen, it takes a narrow forest path alongside a deeply incised stream ravine. Trail conditions and access may change; check local notices before setting out.
The timing also matters for the official hiking trail between Gelterfingen (Kramburg) and the Oelegraben near Heitere. Its reopening after rock-clearing work carried out from May 13 to 16, 2025, was announced on May 26, 2025; a rockfall hazard was signposted in the forest. Before setting out, check local notices for any subsequent closures or hazards.
Gravel cycling to Gelterfingen
The 34.74-kilometer Gürbetal gravel loop follows gravel and farm tracks along the foot of Belpberg, passing partly through the forest and along the Mösche to Gelterfingen. Compared with the 7.8-kilometer hike, it is considerably longer and offers a different way to explore the area. Comparing the distance and mode of travel can help you choose, without assuming a particular duration for either route. As surface conditions can change, it is worth checking current trail conditions.
Farm shop and regional products
At Dorfstrasse 22, the Burebeck farm shop sells baked goods, various cheeses, pasta, Güetzi cookies, Nidletäfeli toffees, jam, apple rings, honey, and eggs from a self-service kiosk. It also offers seasonal vegetables and fruit, as well as fresh milk from its own cows. The selection combines long-lasting products with seasonal produce. Check the current opening arrangements before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Uttigen, Burgistein, Toffen, Riggisberg, Niedermuhlern, Kehrsatz, Belp, Gerzensee.
Back to the main travel overview: Seftigen.
