Some trees on Bettlachstock are more than 200 years old. Together with the undisturbed habitats, they shape part of the natural landscape in the Lebern district. If you explore the mountain on foot, follow the marked hiking trails: the marked paths up the mountain are suitable for sure-footed visitors in dry weather. Check trail conditions before setting out.
Hiking through forests, over peaks and through valleys
The hiking landscape in the district includes extensive forests, farmland and varied elevations. Along the way, views open up across the surrounding peaks and valleys. On the Weissenstein, the range of well-marked routes extends from leisurely walking paths to challenging tours. This brings out the difference between short outings and more strenuous hikes, without suggesting that one particular route suits everyone.
One hike from the Weissenstein cable car’s mountain station first leads to the panoramic peaks of Röti and Balmfluechöpfli, then through the forest to the Nesselboden middle station. There is also a small viewing terrace at the summit of Balmfluechöpfli; good, marked hiking trails lead into the area from the direction of Rüttenen and Balm. Allow at least two days for the geological hike across the Weissenstein. Check your route plan and accommodation availability before departure.
Other tours also have distinctive destinations: various hiking trails lead to the Bettlachberg mountain restaurant. The Solothurn forest hike runs from the Grenchen mountains over Bettlachstock and the Weissenstein, via Röti to Balmberg. The GeoWanderweg Weissenstein can be reached by gondola lift to the Weissenstein or by post bus to Balmberg; check the timetables before travelling. A mountain bike route leads from the Weissenstein to Oberdorf. Ask locally about conditions on the route.
Traces of nature and history
The dinosaur tracks near Lommiswil can be viewed clearly from a platform with explanatory information panels. A comfortable, mostly level path leads to the tracks on foot, either from “Im Holz” railway station near Lommiswil or from the Weissenstein cable car’s valley station. The quarry itself is subject to safety restrictions. The DINOPFAD WEISSENSTEIN can be walked at any time without a reservation or advance notice; check the latest trail information before setting out.
Typical Jura plants grow in the Weissenstein Jura Garden. The garden has been protected by the canton since 1977 and is freely accessible year-round. Confirm the access information again before your visit. This makes the garden a distinct nature stop, while the trails on the Weissenstein offer everything from walks to challenging tours.
The Grenchen Museum of Cultural History presents the history of industrialisation in the Grenchen region and its effects. One particular focus is the 1950s, the “Golden Age” of the Grenchen watch industry. Special exhibitions may complement the displays. The region’s industrial development thus offers a different focus from the hiking areas’ landscape and nature themes.
Seasonal experiences and excursions
At Balmberg, the focus changes with the seasons: in winter, skiing, snowboarding and sledging are available, along with a snow sports school and a children’s lift. These activities depend on snow and operating conditions. In other seasons, Balmberg serves as a starting point for various hikes; check trail conditions before setting off.
Another option at Balmberg is the rope park, with ten courses of varying difficulty and challenges. Before travelling, check the operating season and whether booking is required. In Altreu, the Witi Information Centre offers guided tours about storks, the Witi habitat and current special exhibitions. As this activity requires booking, confirm availability before your trip.
The short cruise on the Altreu / Aare-Gondeli ferry takes about 15 minutes. From the water, you can watch storks, swans and various species of ducks. The service depends on operating hours and the weather, so check the timetable in advance.
Lebern, a diverse region
Lebern is in the canton of Solothurn; Grenchen is the district’s main town. The district includes Grenchen and its surroundings, parts of the Solothurn area and rural municipalities to the east. This diversity is also reflected in the activities described here: from Grenchen’s industrial history and protected plant life to hikes at varying elevations.
Discover more destinations: Grenchen, Sankt Niklaus, Bettlach, Langendorf, Niederwil, Balm Bei GĂĽnsberg, Riedholz, RĂĽttenen.
Back to the main travel overview: Solothurn.
