In Steinhof, striking erratic boulders meet a long history of chapels. You can discover the village through these specific sights: from the Grossi Flue and Chilchliflue to the Marienkapelle, locally also known as “Chüuchli”. Those looking to combine nature and local history will find both on the Places of Power Trail.
Erratic Boulders and Their Stories
Around 20 erratic boulders lie within the municipal area of Steinhof. The Grossi Flue is seven metres high and weighs 3,500 tonnes. Thirty-six moss species have been recorded on it, including eight species specific to erratic boulders. Beside the Grossi Flue stands a menhir described as a miniature Matterhorn. The Chilchliflue is another large erratic boulder: its total volume is around 370 cubic metres, of which about 150 cubic metres are visible.
The Grossi Flue also shapes the history of the village’s name. In the Middle Ages, its distinctive formation gave its name to a nearby farmstead and, in turn, to the village of Steinhof. The erratic boulder was acquired by the Swiss Natural Science Society in 1869 and placed under protection to prevent its destruction for railway construction. Later, rescue efforts to protect the Grossi Flue and its group of erratic boulders prompted the founding of the Solothurn Nature Conservation Commission in 1905.
A local tradition is also associated with the Chilchliflue: women wishing to have a child were said to slide down the sloping side of the erratic boulder. The story is part of the village’s historical folklore. Alongside the geological features of the erratic boulders, it shows that the rocks of Steinhof play a role not only as natural formations but also in local stories.
Marienkapelle and Local Tradition
The Marienkapelle in Steinhof was built in 1720 and renovated in 1911 and 1970. Its local name, “Chüuchli”, reflects what it is called in the village. According to tradition, the chapel was founded by a man from Steinhof who survived a dangerous pilgrimage to Einsiedeln. He is said to have vowed to bring a statue of the Virgin Mary home. This story is a tradition, not a verified account.
The chapel can accommodate 36 people and can be rented for weddings or christenings. It is therefore not only a historic site but also a venue for certain private occasions. On the Places of Power Trail, it is one of the features of the Steinhof section, alongside the Chilchliflue and the Grossi Flue. This places the chapel and erratic boulders within the same circular hike, while keeping their respective histories in view.
Hiking and Countryside Around Steinhof
The Places of Power Trail is a ten-kilometre circular hike connecting Burgäschisee, Steinhof and Seeberg. The Steinhof section includes the Marienkapelle, the Chilchliflue and the Grossi Flue. The stated route length provides a concrete guide for planning the hike; along the way, the trail connects several of the area’s natural and cultural themes.
The surrounding landscape includes the approximately 15-hectare Erlenschachen forest reserve by Burgäschisee. It has a primeval-forest-like character and is home to numerous rare insect and bird species. Also near Steinhof, the Chlepfimoos, or Burgmoos, is listed in the Federal Inventory of Raised and Transitional Bogs of National Importance. These landscapes add a regional natural dimension to the picture of Steinhof.
The “Amerikanerwald” forest parcel also tells a story of local history. It is linked to the emigration of the Schläfli family: in 1870, spruce timber was harvested there to finance the family’s passage to America. The connection between landscape and local history therefore extends beyond the chapel and erratic boulders.
Getting There and Special Offers
A timetable valid from 14 December 2025 lists BSU route 15 from Burgäschi via the Aeschi SO, Schulhaus; Aeschi SO, Kirche; and Aeschi SO, Dorf stops to Steinhof SO. Check the current timetable before travelling.
Guided tours and walks through the surrounding countryside about the history of the village and the chapel in Steinhof are available to book; confirm current dates in advance. Local offerings also include baking courses for adults, children, young people and school classes, as well as bookable advice on bread and plaited bread. As current course dates cannot be assumed, it is advisable to confirm them before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Zuchwil, Hersiwil, Kriegstetten, Horriwil, Aeschi, Subingen, Bolken, Biberist.
For the overview of the wider region: Wasseramt.
