Neu-Bechburg Castle in Oensingen has a history stretching back more than 750 years. The castle grounds include a romantic park. Guided tours of the castle can be booked on request. If you plan to take a tour, arrange your booking before your trip.
Gäu between the Jura and the Aare
Gäu is bounded to the north by the first range of the Jura Mountains and to the south by the Aare. Away from the main transport routes, the region has largely retained its rural character. Oensingen is the district’s main town; the district comprises eight municipalities. Gäu is part of the Olten tourism region, which covers the three easternmost districts of the canton of Solothurn.
Oensingen: castle and market weekend
The Zibelimäret is also part of the annual calendar in Oensingen: it takes place every year from Friday to Sunday on the last full weekend in October. The programme includes sideshows, specialities, a trade exhibition and a market featuring local associations. If you plan to visit the market, check the dates for your chosen travel year.
Hiking, views and outdoor activities
For a hike with a set start and finish, the 14.5 km Jura Heights Inn Tour runs from Oensingen to Egerkingen across the Jura hills. Further hiking routes from Oensingen lead to the Roggenflue viewpoint. Its south face has five climbing routes on limestone. Check the climbing conditions and any restrictions before setting out.
Another viewpoint is the 966 m-high Höchi Flue, which offers panoramic views and information panels and invites active hikers and cyclists to make the climb. The “Santel” Vitaparcours is a 2.1 km fitness and strength-training trail for all age groups; it is open to the public free of charge. As access conditions may change, it is advisable to check the latest information.
Wolfwil: forest trail, Aare and pilgrimage site
The 2.5 km Elf and Gnome Trail in Wolfwil is a woodland adventure trail with 18 stations. Handmade games, puzzles and gnome houses are among its features. There are shorter loops; the trail is suitable for pushchairs and dogs and has fire pits and comfortable places to rest. Trail details and facilities may change, so check the latest information before your outing.
Wolfwil lies on the Aare and is suitable for walking, jogging and cycling. The pilgrimage site adds a cultural highlight: its chapel houses a Gothic votive image of the Virgin Mary. Visitors can learn more about the site on a private guided tour.
Getting around from Härkingen
Olten and Solothurn are a short journey from Härkingen by public transport. The A1 and A2 motorways lead from Härkingen to Basel, Bern, Lucerne and Zurich; the stated journey time is between 30 and 60 minutes. Check the timetable for your travel date when planning public transport connections. A local sports facility in Härkingen is a golf driving range; enquire in advance about public access.
Discover more destinations: Oensingen, Egerkingen, Härkingen, Lebern, Gösgen, Olten, Dorneck, Thierstein.
Back to the main travel overview: Solothurn.
