Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft Schaffhausen Argovia Jurapark Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald Confédération suisse Regional Nature Park Confederazione Svizzera 4 Die grüne Schatzkammer. 5 6 Im Rhythmus der Natur. THE SWISS PARKS Rhein ins Vergnügen, raus aufs Land. Confederaziun svizra Swiss Confederation

Bundesamt für Umwelt BAFU SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD Office fédéral de l’environnement OFEV 5 Ufficio federale dell’ambiente UFAM Uffizi federal d’ambient UFAM

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Wilchingen These 18 Swiss Parks indicate exceptional areas of . They were created to promote the 17 pure wilderness. distinctive scenery – both natural and cultivated – by their typical regional biodiversity and an environ- Jestetten ment that inspires people over and over again be it culturally, economically or for culinary traditions. 4 The parks house a myriad of small wonders, waiting to be discovered, experienced, heard and savoured. Rüdlingen Frauenfeld Laufenburg Basel Frick

Linn (Bözberg) Nature Park Chasseral Nature Park Thal Nature Park 3 1 St. Gallen 1 À contre-courant. 2 La vie grandeur nature. 3 Stille Natur. Lebendiges Thal. Saint- Aarau Zürich Herisau Ursanne Delémont Passwang Appenzell Mümliswil 6 Balsthal Langen- Biosfera Val Müstair berg 18 Von Natur aus anders. Oensingen Sihlwald Saignelégier 2 Welschenrohr Albishorn Etang de Sonceboz- Solothurn la Gruère Sombeval Zug Mont Les Prés-d’Orvin Soleil Chasseral Biel/Bienne La Chaux-de-Fonds 13 Jura vaudois Nature Park Jorat Nature Discovery Park Saut du 7 Harmonieuse diversité. 8 (Candidate) Doubs Luzern Glarus Une terre à vivre au quotidien. Val de Ruz Schwyz Neuchâtel

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Mollendruz Oey-Diemtigen a r Müstair i u z Piz Beverin V Bravuogn S-chanf p a c V Villars-Tiercelin a x t u Charmey Andeer h l h un M Bulle c ora u Savognin Mont L’Abbaye de Wiriehore l La borne des h Albulapass Montheron Splügen c Tendre las Vallée de Jo trois Jorats Roff Vanil Grimmialp Col du 14 Lausanne Noir St. Moritz Marchairuz 12 Château-d’Œx Bivio Julierpass Col de Rochers Blitzingen la Givrine de Naye Château de Niederwald Chillon Leukerbad Town or village Ice sports

Peak Information Leuk Gampel Brig-Glis centre Mountain pass Sierre Pfynwalden Mountain rab Architecture biking Illg Barbecue Mountain Sion cableway Genève Bed and Breakfast Bellinzona Mountain inn Bicycle paths Museum Biotope Picking Campsite Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Nature/culture Beverin Nature Park Parc Ela Church 9 Regional Nature Park 15 Wo der Capricorn zu Hause ist. 16 Der grösste Naturpark der Schweiz! Natural Un parc à vivre, un parc à partager. Igl datgea digl capricorn. Igl pi grond parc natural dalla Svizra! Crafts monument Easy hiking Outdoor events Eating/Sleeping Playground Electric bike Recipe Fauna Rest area Flora Restaurant Groceries Ski lift Group Sledging accommodation Snowshoeing Hiking Thematic trail Historical site Town tour Gantrisch Nature Park Diemtigtal Nature Park Pfyn-Finges Nature Park UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch Nature Park Historical 10 Raum zum Entdecken – bei Tag und Nacht. 11 nah – wild – wertvoll 12 Staunen von Berg bis Tal. 13 visionär. natürlich. 14 Starke Wurzeln. Verborgene Schätze. town centre Viewpoint Hotel Winter activities Hut Winter hiking

50 km

Background map © swisstopo N Perimeters 01/2019 © BAFU/Swiss Parks Network Park perimeter provisional in some places Icons © outdooractive parks.swiss The Swiss Parks Park and product label Doubs Regional Nature Park Chasseral Regional Nature Park Thal Regional Nature Park Argovia Jurapark Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald THE SWISS PARKS SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD

Swiss Parks of National Importance Preserving value and promoting The Federal Office for the Environ- Product label River, border and bond > From Les Brenets to Biaufond: The great outdoors > From the Chasseral to the Ideal at any pace and on to Mieschegg. It is worth Recreation and relaxation > Round trip from Gipf-Oberfrick Randen, vineyards, Rhine > From Jestetten ((D) with SBB) Something unique is emerging in tection and recreation. For visitors are characterised by their scenic sustainable management ment (FOEN) awards the park label Goods and services from the parks The Doubs River forms a natural 21.2 km. Hiking time: 6:25 hours. There are many aspects to the Chas- Vue des Alpes: 28 km. Although the Thal Nature Park lies taking a quick detour to the dry Nestled between the rivers Aare bus stop, bridge: 5.5 km. Hiking In the northernmost corner of Swit- to Buchberg: 13 km, 3:30 hours the Sihlwald forest who seek recreation, it boasts 73 beauty, rich biodiversity and valua- Increasing numbers of municipali- for a period of ten years to parks are eligible for the Swiss Parks border for 40 km between Switzer- www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ seral Regional Nature Park, which Hiking time: 2 days of 3:20 hours right in the middle of Switzerland, stone wall on the Probstenberg, and Rhine lie the hills of the Aargau time: 1:30 to 2 hours, longer zerland lies an unexpectedly diverse www.natourpark.ch The Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald in km of hiking trails, 59 km of cycling ble cultural heritage. The people ties in Switzerland are adopting that fulfil all federal requirements. product label designation from land and . In Les Brenets, this hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ takes its name from the splendid and 4:45 hours. it is a relatively well-kept secret. before the path leads back down to Jura. This is the largest natural option 4 hours. landscape waiting to be discovered (Wandern) Switzerland’s Central Plateau is routes and 55 km of bridle paths. within the park communities are policies based on sustainable Products and services from these the park authority. Fourteen parks wonder of nature is particularly route-095.html mountain ridge that overlooks www.parcchasseral.ch Nestling in the hills of the Solothurn the village of Welschenrohr. recreation area between Basel and www.chriesiwaeg.ch and experienced in all kinds of ways. unique in that it features a vast, Current and previously local wild committed not only to preserving deve lopment. This is particularly parks, which meet particular already offer over than 1,700 dif- impressive because here the river western Switzerland. The pastures, Jura, this is a place where nature Zurich, where hikers can delight in The Schaffhausen Regional Nature Reiatweg connected area of around 11 animals, such as brown bear, wolf, this valuable resource, but also to noticeable in the parks, where the requirements can be certified ferent food products – and the becomes a lake flanked by steep Étang de la Gruère vineyards, wild gullies, plateaus and Anabaptists’ trail can be enjoyed at any pace. You > Round trip back to majestic fir trees, areas dotted Raftsmen’s trail Park is an area of expansive arable Discover one of the most northern square kilometres and offers a rare lynx, deer, elk and European bison, improving it and using it for the in habitants are aware of the spe- with a product label by the park range is grow ing. For example, the cliffs. The lake’s tranquil waters The Étang de la Gruère is an oasis valleys bear testimony to a fierce On this two-day trip you can can cycle through the countryside Welschenrohr: 14 km. with orchids, orchards, rocky out- Rafting was an important industry land, exceptional grasslands, wide- regions of Switzerland. The hike example of a primeval beech for- can be found in the expansive and economic and social development cial nature of the local and regional authority. “Jurakette” (“Jura chain”) sausage are suddenly agitated before of greenery located at the heart of desire to live with dignity. Quality discover various visible traces of scattered with ruined castles or Hiking time: 4 hours. crops and vineyards. It is the in the 19th century. Rafters steered ranging forests and beautifully through varied terrain and the view est. Although human management near natural compounds of the of their region. area and of the value of the land- is produced in the Thal Nature Park becoming the Saut du Doubs the Franches-Montagnes, between watches and famous cheeses: the life of the Anabaptists (a hike along the thematic trails and www.naturparkthal.ch/ perfect place to relax, to discover the timber rafts on the Aare and the tended vineyards, and the unique of extinct volcanoes and the Alps is of the Sihlwald was ceased not so Wildnispark Zurich Langenberg. scape. This value also lies in the vil- Park label (SO). The L’Étivaz Alpine cheese waterfall. You can reach the water- Saignelégier and Tramelan. A trail dependable values. Everyone will community that sought refuge in discover more about the flora and wolfsschlucht-weg and enjoy your surroundings and to Rhine from Stilli to Laufenburg and landscape through which flows the thrilling. long ago in 2000, there are already Significant scenic, natural and lages and the culture of the people If a park meets the requirements, from the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut fall on foot from the pier. The river winds its way along this scenic encounter life’s true pleasures the plateau region of the Jura fauna, the geology of the region get some exercise. At the heart of walked overland from there back to River Rhine. Take in the view across large sections of the forest with Visitors Centre cultural value living there. Municipalities within it receives the protected label of Nature Park, the “Mostbröckli” continues its course through wild body of water in the midst of a while walking, eating, breathing, mountains in the 17th century), and local myths and legends. Holzweg Thal, Balsthal and the park lies the Tafeljura between the starting point. Today, this well- the region and beyond from the > Recommended starting point: dead standing trees and fallen, The visitors centre of the Wildnis- Of significant value in a Park of the parks work together and with “Park of National Importance” from (smoked and air-dried beef, served gorges, passing through Goumois marshy landscape. Lush and beau- observing and chatting here. including secret gathering places Altern a tively, you may want to try Holderbank Frick and Villigen, an area of high marked trail winds through the Randen towers, learn about the Hüttenleben bus stop in decaying tree trunks, which pro- park Zurich Sihlwald is located five Na tional Importance are forests other partners to develop visions the federal authorities. The park in thin slices) from the Argovia and continuing all the way to Clos tiful vegetation thrives in the wet- with mysterious inscriptions, the out your climbing skills. And those The “Holzweg Thal” is a discovery plateaus giving views far into the vineyards of the Mettau Valley and countryside and its people in a tour Thayngen. vide insight into the emerging for- minutes away from Sihlwald railway and waters rich in biodiversity, rare and strategies to preserve these label is valid for ten years, after Jurapark and the cereal risotto du Doubs before reentering France. lands, which are also home to Pioneers’ trail Anabaptist Archive, networks of who just want to relax can enjoy trail that introduces visitors to the Alps. The Aargau Jura, with its orig- has information boards about the around the picturesque villages or > Round trip starting and ending est and wilderness. The wilderness station. It provides information habitats such as marshlands, values and use them to develop which time the park authorities from the Gantrisch Nature Park all interesting terrestrial and aquatic On this two-day hike from the dry stone walls and much more. a good meal in one of the many forest and its product, wood, via inal valleys and villages, provides a history. Take a break and enjoy a delve into the past at the Kessler- in Thayngen: 19 km, 4:45 hours offers a wide range of habitats for about the park, has a restaurant, alluvial zones and dry meadows, their municipalties sustainably. must submit a new application. carry the “Swiss Parks” product Saut du Doubs fauna. Chasseral to Vue des Alpes, walk- mountain restaurants. the media of art and play, inviting gentle contrast to the built-up “rafting beer” or an overnight stay loch. www.wanderland.ch/en/ plants and animals. Hundreds of a souvenir and bookstore, a large and unique landscapes of excep- This ensur es that the park meets label, which guarantees that the The hike starts in Les Brenets and ers can discover how nature in the > From Sonceboz-Sombeval to them to think, feel and touch. areas along the Aare and Rhine. at the Gasthaus Bären in Hottwill. hiking-in-switzerland/ beetle, gnat and fly species make wilderness playground and a nature tional beauty such as the Jura Fascination and enjoyment all the natural, landscape and product is a high-quality regional after three kilometers takes visi- was “tamed” by the Chasseral: 33 km. Wolfsschlucht – “Wolf’s Gorge” Artist Sammy Deichmann’s instal- Rhine-vineyard route hiking-in-swiss-parks.html their homes in and on the dead- mu seum. Opening hours: 21st of Heights in the Argovia Jurapark or The parks provide the opportunity cultural requirements, that the speciality from a park. The label is tors to the trail’s first highlight, humans. Nature, in turn, shaped Hiking time: 2 days of 4:30 hours trail, Welschenrohr lations present nature in new Frick Valley cherry trail > Start: Laufenburg, Hike through vineyards and along wood. The variety of lichens, moss March till the end of October, Tue to the managed grasslands of the Alps to experience nature up close and management works professionally, only awarded if the products meet the “Saut du Doubs” waterfall, then the special character of inhabit- and 6 hours. This hike takes you through the and unexpected ways. They blend The Chriesiwäg cherry trail in Gipf- destination: Stilli (Villigen) – the Rhine. Follow the trails used and fungi is amazing. Beech, ash Sat from 12 to 5:30 pm; Sun 9 am to in the Diemtigtal Nature Park. In learn new things about the natural and that all democratic, financial the requirements of a local brand continues alongside the Lac de ants. The trail with its many spec- www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ many different aspects of the Thal harmoniously with their natural Oberfrick takes walkers through or opposite direction by the Romans, Celts and ferry and silver firs grow into huge giants 5:30 pm; closed Mondays. addition, the buffer zones around world; this might happen, for exam- and territorial aspects of the park and the services are essentially Moron on to the dam. The small tacular views leads along hedges, hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ Nature Park. The route begins with surroundings, inviting discovery. the spectacularly beautiful land- Distance : 20 km, 4–6 hours operators and discover a piece of over 50 metres tall. The Sihlwald national parks and regional nature ple, on a “herb walk” or “marshland are guaranteed over the long term. provided within the park area. In “Halte du Châtelot” restaurant was dry stone walls and mountain inns etappe-0992.html an ascent through the beautifully scape of the Frick Valley with its www.floesserweg.ch history. was the first area in Switzerland to parks are areas of well-tended cul- landscape path”. Village shops sell Prospective parks can request a addition, they should be produced once a meeting place for smugglers. (métairies). wild and romantic Wolfsschlucht > Several possible routes: abundance of cherry trees. The trail receive the official “Nature Discov- tural landscapes, unspoilt villages locally produced sausages, wine provisional candidate label whilst sustainably and help to strengthen The Doubs River runs past rugged (Wolf’s Gorge) and then continues 1:30 hours – 2:30 hours. includes eleven information panels ery Park” label and certification. and valuable cultural as sets such and cheese and local restaurants at the development stage. the regional economy. The federal cliffs, at times furiously gushing and along the airy heights of the second www.holzwegthal.ch about cherry cultivation. Direct tas- These credentials refer to its as the St. Johann Monastery in the offer tempting regional specialities. level certification process ensures then calmly flowing on to La Rasse. Jura mountain chain to Tannmatt ting from marked trees is permitted. unique combination of nature pro- Biosfera Val Müstair (GR), which is a that this is the case. Consumers UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a combination of all these of local goods and services thus 1 2 3 4 5 6 qualities, which makes the Swiss contribute to preserving and Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Supported by the people Parks unique. improving the local biodiversity Parks originate in the hearts and and countryside, to promoting spe- Location: Northwestern Swit- Parc du Doubs, Location: 10 km from Biel, Parc régional Chasseral Location: Solothurn Jura, bet- Naturpark Thal Location: Aargau Jura, 40 km Jurapark Aargau Location: Swiss-German border, Regionaler Naturpark Location: 20 km south of Zurich Stiftung Wildnispark Zurich minds of the local people: The pub- cific cultural values and boosting zerland, approx. 60 km from Place du 23-Juin 6 Neuchâtel and La Chaux-de- Place de la Gare 2 ween Berne, Basel, Lucerne Hölzlistrasse 57 from Zurich, 8 km from Aarau, Linn 51 north of the Rhine, 30 km north of Schaffhausen Alte Sihltalstrasse 38 Zurich lic gives the impetus for the crea- the regional economy. Basel and 20 km from Neuchâtel CP 316 Fonds Cantons: Bern and CP 219 and Zurich Postfach 255 25 km from Basel 5225 Bözberg Hauptstrasse 50 Canton: Zurich 8135 Sihlwald tion of a park. Only then will the 8217 Wilchingen 2 2350 Saignelégier Neuchâtel 2610 Saint-Imier 4710 Balsthal Tel. 062 877 15 04 Cantons: Schaffhausen; Area: 11 km Tel. 044 722 55 22 federal government support a park Tel. 052 533 27 07 Cantons: Jura, Neuchâtel Tel. 032 420 46 70 Tel. 032 942 39 49 Canton: Solothurn Tel. 062 386 12 30 Cantons: Aargau, [email protected] Waldshut district (DE) [email protected] Population: 90 [email protected] project and award it the park label – 2 2 and Bern [email protected] Cantons: Bern, Neuchâtel [email protected] Area: 139 km [email protected] Solothurn www.jurapark-aargau.ch Area: 209 km , of which www.naturpark-schaffhausen.ch Municipalities: 6 perimeter www.wildnispark.ch provided all requirements are ful- Area: 294 km2 www.parcdoubs.ch Area: 387 km2 www.parcchasseral.ch Population: 14 800 www.naturparkthal.ch Area: 241 km2 175 km2 in Switzerland municipalities / filled. The local municipalities play Population: 14 400 Population: 38 700 Municipalities: 9 Population: 41 300 Population: 26 000 13 affiliated a considerable role in the park Municipalities: 16 Municipalities: 21 Municipalities: 28 Municipalities: 15; two villages on municipalities autho rity, making strategically German side important decisions about the park. www.parks.swiss Jurapark Argovia

Park categories Benefits for the local people Jura Vaudois Regional Nature Park Jorat Nature Discovery Park Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park Gantrisch Regional Nature Park Diemtigtal Regional Nature Park Pfyn-Finges Regional Nature Park THE SWISS PARKS SMALL WONDERS OF THE WORLD

Parks of National Importance are Regional nature park In creating a park, the local popu- Strengthening identity Between nature and culture > From St-Cergue to Romainmôtier: The largest forest on the Handicap & Nature Trail Landscapes with people fa mous Grand Chalet, in which Fresh air park near the capital were le velled by the storm in the Close by – wild – treasured Alpine treats Delights from mountain to valley > Illgraben – Bhutan Bridge divided into three categories: na- A regional nature park covers a lation makes a conscious decision Overall, a park strengthens the po- The Jura Vaudois Nature Park 46 km. Swiss Plateau The five-kilometre route, starting In the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Re- the painter Balthus spent his final The landscape in Gantrisch Regional winter of 1999. Wild landscapes, exciting disco- What could be nicer than ending Grasslands and biotopes, idyllic round trip, starts and ends tional parks, regional nature parks rural area characterised by a diver- to pursue a sustainable economic sitioning of a region. It can help to stretches from the Dôle peak as far Hiking time: a total of Lying north of Lausanne, the huge and ending at the Villars-Tiercelin gional Nature Park, people, nature years. Nature Park is characterised by veries: the Diemtigtal Nature Park your Alpine experience actually on mountain villages and towns, hilly at Leuk train station: 7 km. and nature discovery parks. These sity of natural features, rich biodi- and social development in their ensure that services such as vil- as the little medieval town of 12:30 hours over 2–3 days. forest expanse of the Jorat is the forest hut, leads through varied and culture are bound together in forests, canyons and the unique > From Gurnigelbad to Zollhaus: offers many outdoor adventures an Alp? Book a day helping with the vineyards and one of the largest Hiking time: 2:30 hours. three park categories have differ- versity and unique cultural assets region. This development should be lage shops or public transport are Romainmôtier, with its famous www.parcjuravaudois.ch largest continuous wooded area on forest landscapes dotted with impressive harmony: rugged hills > From Rougemont to Rossinière: Gantrisch mountain chain. The 20 km, Hiking time: 7 hours right on your doorstep. With 140 cows (“chüejeren”), or cheesema- spruce forest in the Alps… the www.pfyn-finges.ch/ ent organisational structures and such as the in in tune with local natural and land- preserved and can encourage so- abbey. The park has a rich variety the Swiss Plateau. With its many observation posts on fauna, flora dotted with shingleroofed Alpine 15 km. Hiking time: 3–4 hours. area is rich in legends and stories, (can be completed in stages). Alpine farms and over 10,000 dairy king in the Füürhus before enjoying Pfyn-Finges Nature Park concen- illgrabenbhutanbruecke pursue different goals. Parc Ela (in Graubünden). These scape values, and at the same time cial cohesion. A park may also bring of natural features: quiet forests, One of Switzerland’s biggest springs and wetlands, it is a source and the mountains. Part of the huts and historic villages with their www.gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch like the folk song “Vreneli ab em www.schweizmobil.ch/en/ cows, heifers, sheep, goats and a platter of tasty cheese and bread, trates huge natural diversity in a va lues should not only be preserv- maintain an outlook for the local new impulse to a region. For ex - mysterious marshlands, wide open forest areas of high quality drinking water for track is laid out on a removable stone bridges over the River Saane Guggisberg”. The low level of light hiking-in-switzerland/routes/ horses, the Diemtigtal is the lar- assorted meats or the traditional small area and has an astonishing Info centres National park ed and enhanced, but also used to inhabitants and future genera- ample, several parks have estab- grasslands and karst rocks. The Situated more than 1000 metres the region. The Jorat is a special deck made of oak from the local bear witness to a centuries-old Information centre at the Maison pollution provides unimpeded views route-0379.html gest Alpine farming community in farmer’s dish, “rösti” (hash browns). variety of different landscapes and Further information about the region A national park consists of a core develop the region sustainably. tions. Changes are therefore desir- lished working groups and forums region is a great place for biking and above sea level, the huge Risoud area with a very strong identity. forest. There are crossing places for culture. Today the local people still de L’Etivaz of the stars. The unspoiled land- Switzerland. The cultural and eco- Visitors can round off the day with richness of flora and fauna. can be obtained at the Pfyn-Finges and a buffer zone. In the core zone, able, but they must concord with to discuss the future of the region for pleasure hikes with numerous forest covers an astounding 2277 wheelchairs every 50 to 100 metres. celeb rate their pride in their region The Maison de l’Etivaz is the first scape is ideal for relaxation. The Leisurely Walk in the Gantrisch nomic traditions of this community a glass of wine under a starry sky, Nature Park, at the Leuk Tourism nature can develop freely and Nature discovery park the sustainability criteria to which and develop concrete projects. Thus, traditional pubs and farmhouse hectares. The trees are principally Fountain Trail in the Jorat forest with numerous folk festivals and Relais Infos – information centre – region has been designated as a Regional Nature Park are still upheld and highly valued in the midst of fascinating moun- Illgraben – Bhutan bridge entrance to the SOSTA sport and un disturbed. Human activities are A nature discovery park is divided the region commits itself. cultural offers, discussion groups and inns serving local specialities. spruce, providing wood of a very For centuries, the main springs in > Round trip from the cus toms. And they take delight established in the Gruyère Pays- “Regional Nature Park of National Along the circular walk, visitors are today, something which is clearly tain scenery. round trip culture centre at Leuk railway sta- se verely restricted. The buffer into a core and a transition zone. panel discussions are being created high quality. It is said that resonant this region have been tapped to Villars-Tiercelin forest hut: 5 km. in the wonderful landscape: La d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park. It Importance” since 2012. This means rewarded with amazing views and seen and felt. The 134-metre-long suspended tion, and at Siders railway station. zone includes villages and cultural The core zone provides an undis- A park can offer many benefits to as a result of direct initiatives taken On foot through the Jura vaudois wood from this forest was used to provide drinking water to the Hiking time: 1 hour and 15 min. Pierreuse and the Vanil Noir nature provides general information about that state support is provided for impressions: From the path, visitors > www.diemtigtal.ch/alpgenuss footbridge was constructed in 2002 land scapes managed in harmony turbed habitat for local flora and the local population. These might by the local population. Such initia- Nature Park construct some Stradivarius violins. inhabitants of Lausanne and the reserves being of particularly out- the park and the Alpine economy. projects in the region that bene- can take in the direct view of the Springenboden Wrestling Trail in cooperation with the Kingdom of with nature, as well as areas for fauna. The transition zone acts as include developing marketing tives strengthen the culture and This 2–3 day hike takes you along Discover this mystic forest steeped surrounding towns and villages. standing beauty. There are two slide shows which fit nature, society and sustainable Alps, hike through the wild Thanwald, Do you know the Wyberhaken? Bhutan. It provides an attractive tourism or forestry. As its name a buffer for the core zone. In the strategies for the sale of regional identity of the region. the ridges from St-Cergue to Ro - in legend and stories of contra- Other less important springs and give an insight into local cheese- business activities. pass the noteworthy and charming Home of Swiss wrestling champion way of accessing the Pfynwald suggests, this zone provides a transition zone there is a wide products, encouraging innovative main môtier, on to Mont Tendre band… resurgences have also been tapped Chemin de la Sarine in the making techniques in Alpine cha- town of Oberbütschel and refresh Kilian Wenger, here you can find nature conservation area. The bridge buffer which protects the core range of opportunities for educa- me thods of caring for the cultural (1679 m), and down to the foot of over the years to feed the fountains Pays-d’Enhaut lets where visitors are invited to Gantrisch panoramic trail themselves at two restaurants. On out more about this popular natio- also leads the visitor across the zone from negative influences. tion, relaxation and adventure landscape for farmers, or helping the Jura. Along the way you can along the forest paths, formerly for The hike begins in Rougemont, participate in the summer months. The name of this 20-kilometre-long Wednesdays, they can take a tour of nal sport, which has managed to Illgraben valley, one of the most Currently, there are no projects in sports, providing an important to market natural attractions for the enjoy the magnificent panorama woodcutters and their horses, and which has several delightful build- trail holds no false promises. The the nearby Uecht Observatory, where uphold its deep-rooted traditions. active debris flow areas in the this category. contribution to improving the tourism sector. Some parks now of the Vallée de Joux, the Alps and nowadays for the de light of walkers. ings, and follows the path of the Gäggersteg footbridge across the they will be able to gaze at the entire Alpine region. quality of life of the urban popula- offer new and varied activities for the Lake Geneva region. Saane as far as Château-d’Œx. forest area damaged by Storm magnificent starry sky. > Circuit from Springenboden: The Swiss National Park, which has tion. A nature discovery park is no a wide range of visitors and are > Round trip from the The trail then takes you across Lothar will be the high point of 2 km, 1:30 hours been in existence for over 100 years, more than 20 kilometres from the committed to creating accessible Chalet-à-Gobet: 11.7 km. meadows to Rossinière. This vil- this hike for children. Virtue was > www.gantrisch.ch/musse has its own legislative basis. The nearest urban centre and is easily tourism. Such activities extend a Hiking time: 3 hours. lage is known for its extraordinary made of a necessity here: a forest park is one of the best protected accessible by public transport. park’s value-added chain and wooden buildings, including the reserve now exists in the area in wild areas in the Alps. create additional value. They help which entire expanses of forest to ensure that existing jobs are maintained and new ones created. 7 8 9 10 11 12 Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address

Location: Jura vaudois, 25 km Parc Jura vaudois Location: north of Lausanne Parc naturel périurbain du Jorat The centre of the park Parc naturel régional Gruyère Location: between Bern, Fördeverein Region Gantrisch Location: Bernese Oberland, Naturpark Diemtigtal Location: Central , 25 km Naturpark Pfyn-Finges from Yverdon-les-Bains and Rte du Marchairuz 2 Rue des Fontaines 8 is located 80 km from Lausanne Pays-d’Enhaut Fribourg and Thun Naturpark Gantrisch, Schloss half an hour away from the Bahnhofstrasse 20 from Visp Kirchstrasse 4 35 km from Lausanne 1188 St-George Canton: Vaud 1058 Villars-Tiercelin and 60 km from Freiburg Place du Village 6 Schlossgasse 13 city of Bern 3753 Oey Postfach 65 Tel. 022 366 51 70 Area: 22 km2 Tel. 021 903 09 30 1660 Château-d’Œx Cantons: Bern and 3150 Schwarzenburg Tel. 033 681 26 06 Canton: Valais 3970 Salgesch Canton: Vaud [email protected] Population: 20 [email protected] Cantons: Fribourg and Tel. 0848 110 888 Fribourg Tel. 031 808 00 20 Canton: Bern [email protected] Area: 277 km2 Tel. 027 452 60 60 Area: 531 km2 www.parcjuravaudois.ch Municipalities: 8 www.jorat.org Vaud inscriptions@ Area: 404 km2 [email protected] Area: 136 km2 www.diemtigtal.ch Population: 11 300 [email protected] Population: 34 900 Area: 503 km2 gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch Population: 37 100 www.gantrisch.ch Population: 2400 Municipalities: 12 www.pfyn-finges.ch Municipalities: 30 Population: 14 500 www.gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch Municipalities: 22 Municipalities: 2 Municipalities: 13

www.parks.swiss Park Nature Regional Pays-d’Enhaut Gruyère

Attractions for visitors Enjoyment for all UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch Binntal Regional Nature Park Beverin Regional Nature Park Parc Ela Swiss National Park Biosfera Val Müstair

Publishing details An untamed forest on Zurich’s Learning in the field Nut tarts, apple cider, excursions overnight stays. In this way, visitors The wild west of Lucerne > Sonnentau trail circuit, starts Strong roots. Hidden treasures. chapel. It then leads past the Home of the ibex hus via the Farcletta digl Lai Grand Discover and experience > Research trail: 3 km. Hiking Pure wilderness! view over half the national park. It Naturally different! dense larch forests to striking door step, studying an ant colony The parks’ location in regions fea- and overnight stays: The Swiss come into close contact with locals Almost no other region can boast and ends in Rossweid: 1.5 km. The Binntal Nature Park offers sur- pic turesque hamlet of Hockmatta Four valleys, two cultures, one back to Wergenstein. Parc Ela lies at the heart of Grau- time: 3 hours with experiments. The Swiss National Park represents also provides interesting information Naturally different, the idyllic Val marshlands and flowering mead- Publisher: Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) in the Jura vaudois, delightful turing extraordinary natural and Parks produce unique products and and learn about the production, as many natural treasures as Hiking time: 1 hour. prises at every turn. This tributary to Bächerhischere and on to Park. The Beverin Regional Nature The Via Capricorn is a demanding bünden and brings together the www.parc-ela.ch a pioneering achievement in the about the open and hidden secrets Müstair is a world in itself. Lush ows. walks in the valleys of Valais and cultural values makes them an offer services of exceptional quality. manufacturing processes and ori- the “Wild West of Lucerne”. It’s no www.mooraculum.ch valley in the Valais is rich in miner- Grengiols, which is famous for its Park is known for its deep gorges, mountain hike, and even expe- three linguistic cultures Romansh, context of nature conservation in along the route. green meadows and picturesque Text credits: Switzerland Tourism, the Swiss Parks, exploring sites soaked in history in ideal place for learning. One of the Products and services can be found gins of the products. wonder that Entlebuch has been als, waiting to be discovered among unique tulips. intact townscapes, crystal-clear rienced mountain walkers need to Italian and German. With steep Rhaetian Railway: Europe. Established as the first villages form a stark contrast to > A la riva dal : 14 km, > From Stabelchod (car park P8) Swiss Parks Network, FOEN the mountains of Graubünden: key tasks of a park is to develop in the park itself, but are also avail- listed as a UNESCO biosphere re- “Genuine Entlebuch” culinary the stones at the Lengenbach quarry mountain lakes and ibexes, called allow 8–9 hours for each of the mountainsides and expansive val- UNESCO World Heritage Site Alpine national park in 1914, it has the wild nature of the nearby 3–4 hours to Il Fuorn: 8 km. Hiking time: Experience the fascination of programmes which raise aware- able at retailers and at markets and Markets, cottages serve. An enchanting universe un- delights or on tours with an amateur geolo- > From Binn to Grengiols: 12 km. “capricorn” in Romansh. These three stages. leys, surrounded by glaciers and The Albula line of the Rhaetian the highest classification as a wil- National Park. For this reason, its www.biosfera.ch/de/erlebnisse- 3 hours. Final editing: Christoph Grosjean, Estelle Paratte, Switzerland’s parks in pristine ness and educate both the local fairs. and “Gourmet Roads” folds here: unspoiled mires alter- Enjoy a culinary experience at the gist. Each summer the well-pre- Hiking time: 3 hours. majestic animals thrive on the mountain lakes, the park still has a Railway opened in 1903 and was derness area. In addition to all unique landscape has been given angebote/la-riva-dal-rom www.nationalpark.ch/en/visit/ Mireille Rotzetter natural and characteristic cultural population and its guests. The Each year, the Gantrisch, Thal, Binn- nate with idyllic Alpine meadows UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. The served mountain village of Ernen www.wanderland.ch/en/routes/ steep cliffs around Piz Beverin > Round trip from Wergenstein: sense of wilderness. The historical listed as a UNESCO World Heritage plants and animals, all natural pro- two honours: The Val Müstaire was trails-routes landscapes and discover a whole parks offer special arrangements Swiss Parks offer a year-round tal and Entlebuch Nature Parks and pastures, above which Schrat- Entlebuch biosphere and its land- becomes a place of music, with route-0169.html (2998 metres) and watch over the 49 km. Hiking time: 3 days villages in the valleys with their Site in 2008. Considering the con- cesses in the Swiss National Park named a Regional Nature Park Promenada William Wolfensberger In-house consultants: Species, Ecosystems, Landscapes Division: new world of learning. for families, groups and compa- range of exquisite food products, organise a market where locals and tenfluh mountain thrones majesti- scape are as varied as its wide classical concerts of international Beverin Nature Park, whose wild www.viamala.ch baroque churches are a reminder ditions at the time, the construc- are protected. The 80 kilometres of in 2011 and made part of the This sunny panoramic trail with a Zernez Visitors Centre Matthias Stremlow, Simone Remund, nies, from guided walks and excur- high-quality consumer items, orig- visitors can purchase regional cally. Whether you visit the Kneipp selection of regional products. The standing. In Grengiols a unique type Music village of Ernen and natural landscape stretches of the former importance of the tion of the railway was a gigantic marked hiking trails enable visi- UNESCO Engiadina Val Müstaire total of five benches was created to The Zernez visitors centre was Christoph Grosjean Swiss Parks have something to sions to theme trails and talks. inal handicrafts and exciting activ- products from the local municipal- spa centre, take a guided tour, “genuine Entlebuch” brand will of wild tulip blooms in the rye The music village of Ernen has across 412 square kilometres, Gaping gorges – exhilarating trade routes via the Albula, Julier project, comparable to today’s New tors to experience this fascinating Biosphere Reserve, along with the commemorate the 100th anniver- opened in 2008 and is housed in a offer all visitors, from school There is also a long list of volunteer ities. It is worth keeping an eye out ities, such as cheese, sausage, dried follow the mire trail or visit the surprise you with its wide range of fields in May. Niederwald is the become well known far beyond the giving a feeling of endlessness. experiences and Septimer Alpine passes. The Rail Link through the Alps. On the landscape and its dynamics at Swiss National Park and parts of sary of the death of poet William striking, monolithic building de- Communication Division: Gabriella Zinke classes to families and individuals. services, environmental education for the label for products and meat, vegetables, tea and baked mire adventure park Mooraculum: dairy, meat and other food and hometown of Cesar Ritz, who borders of Switzerland for its piano Viamala, Roffla and Ruinaulta – scenery, the people and their pro- Albula Railway Adventure Trail or in close quarters without causing any the municipality of Scuol. Wolfensberger. What Wolfensberger signed by the Graubünden archi- Here you can explore Alpine land- and adult education courses. The services from the parks as this goods. The Argovia Jurapark has Entle buch is simply inspirational. beverage specialties. The products founded the Ritz-Carlton hotel week and its baroque and chamber Via Capricorn these three gorges are impressive ducts make the Parc Ela unique! the Railway Museum in Bergün, major disturbance to natural pro- describes in his poems is right tect Valerio Olgiati. The beauty of Design: Metzger Rottmann Bürge Partner AG, scapes, walk in gently rolling hills, UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch is guarantees that the purchase of created a “Gourmet Road”, a circuit are made using primary products chain. And there is something for music festival. Every summer the The Via Capricorn is a three-day natural features in the park and visitors can explore the history of cesses. The Swiss National Park, A la Riva dal Rom – on the banks before your eyes here. In addition, the Swiss National Park can be Erlenbach/ZH trek over rugged rock formations or the largest Swiss provider of the product or service benefits the of 179 kilometres leading visitors Mooraculum – the biggest mire from the UNESCO Biosphere gourmets too: the Binntal Nature exceptional classical music festi- hike through Beverin federal no- form the gateways to its four valleys. Alp Flix mire landscape the Rhaetian Railway and its impact the neighbouring Biosfera Val of the Rom you can enjoy a free view of the explored there using modern tech - stroll through blossoming orchards. nature and culture excur sions. park. Even hotels and restaurants to numerous producers and res- adventure park in the Alps Entlebuch, are then produced and Park is home to many excellent val is staged in the midst of breath- hunting zone, where ibex enjoy free Discover the myth-enshrouded Via- The Flix Alpine meadow and mire on the everyday life of the people Müstair and the municipality of This thematic hike starts at the impressive peaks of and nology and solid mechanical devices. Picture credits: Roland Gerth, Markus Gyger, semio / Nicolas Those interested in cultural and offer certified services for dining taurants. The Gantrisch Nature Park Mooraculum and the Sonnentau- refined by partner businesses. They restaurants. taking scenery, thanks to the initi- rein. The hike starts and ends at mala Gorge, the majestic trail to the landscape is renowned for its spe- in the region. Scuol have jointly formed the source of the Rom above . Piz Dora. The centre includes an exhibition, Denis, Lorenz Andreas Fischer, Gerry Nitsch, natural history will also find an School in the park out. Fairs and special events like has come up with an original weg round walk offer a wide range are deeply rooted in the region ative of the now deceased pianist the Hotel Restaurant Capricorns in Roffla Gorge waterfall or the unique cies diversity. Children can discover UNESCO Engiadina Val Müstair From here the route winds its way audio guides in five languages, a Marc Amiguet, Samuel Monnard, Renato exciting programme on offer: his- Several parks offer a large variety the Swiss Parks Market, the idea, so-called “Gantrisch Hüsli” of experiences in and around the and showcase its unmistakeable Römerweg – Roman Road György Sebök. Wergenstein. Former bridle paths countryside of the Ruinaulta. An nature at six locations using the Biosphere Reserve since 2010. for 14 kilometres following the nat- > Promenada William discovery trail for children, seasonal Bagattini, Christof Sonderegger, Kathrin torical routes invite cyclists on a of exciting activities specially for “Genuss” (Best of the Region) and (Gantrisch cottages) in numerous mystical topic of the mire or marsh- identity. The hiking trail starts in the village take you up to the Glaspass on exhilarating experience is guaran- researcher kit. A day of excitement ural path of the Rom via Fuldera, Wolfensberger: 3,5 km, special exhibitions, a shop and Käser / swissimage / Switzerland Tourism / venture of discovery, castles reveal school classes. For example, the “Genusswoche” (“enjoyment week” shops in the region, including in land. The Rossweid ob Sörenberg of Binn, famous for its minerals, Heinzenberg, the end of the first teed! and experience is guaranteed with Margunet and Santa Maria as far as 1 hour 30 min. information point. Starting on 1 May Roberto Buzzini – FOEN / Gantrisch Nature their fascinating history, and marsh- Zurich Sihlwald Wilderness Park in September) and special offers Bern, which sell local products area is full of natural wonders which and continues along the historical stage. On the second stage the the insect vacuum, magnifying The Margunet nature trail leads Müstair. The trail’s beauty lies in www.biosfera.ch/de/erlebnisse- 2019: special exhibition on wolves. Park / Federal Office for the Environment / land nature trails offer astonishing organises excursions targeted at available in the parks around such as Vreneli cheese, Drachen- can be discovered, smelled, felt, path through the wild and romantic path leads down to the Safiental, glass and plaster for casting animal through the Ofenpass forests to high the wealth of fascinating scenery, angebote/promenada-william- Bern Tourismus / Mel Weber / Argovia Jurapark new insights. Not forgetting the rich primary schools. In the Diemtigtal “Parks Day” (always on 24 May) hörnli (“dragon macaroni”), the enjoyed and tasted at the park. Twingi Gorge to the “auf dem Blatt” and the third takes you from Turra- tracks. The researcher kit can be Alpine meadows rich in flora and fauna http://www.nationalpark.ch/en/ from enchanting wetlands and wolfensberger and photographers from the Swiss Parks offering of culinary experiences: Nature Park it is possible to spend provide an ideal opportunity for legendary Christmas biscuits and obtained on the trail. and provides a glorious panoramic visit/national-park-centre/ featured. Families tending herds in the a few days with a class on the Alp discovering the culinary and cul- painted Easter eggs. The Entlebuch mountains give a taste of Alpine learning about the way of life and tural variety on offer in the parks. herb and wild plant market in 13 14 15 16 17 18 Cartography: Metzger Rottmann Bürge Partner AG, cooking, vintners open their wine the work there. In the UNESCO Escholzmatt is known throughout Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address Facts and figures Address supported by Swiss Parks Network cellars, and “tasting trails” let you Bio sphere Entlebuch, meanwhile, Guided enjoyment Switzerland. discover regional products such as school chil dren can go to school on In the parks themselves, guided Location: centrally located UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch Location: Upper Valais, 13 km Landschaftspark Binntal Location: Central Graubünden, Naturpark Beverin Location: Albula region: Info- und Buchungsstelle Location: In the Engadine, Schweizerischer Nationalpark Location: Val Müstair, 60 km Biosfera Val Müstair Address for ordering FOBL, Distribution of Publications cheese, sausage, wine and bread. the farm. And why not discover the walks bring an informative element An overview of Gourmet Weeks, between Lucerne and Bern Chlosterbüel 28 from Brig Postfach 20 approx. 35 km south-west Center da Capricorns Tiefencastel, Filisur, Bergün, Parc Ela approx. 170 km from Zurich Schloss Planta-Wildenberg from St. Moritz and 130 km Center da Biosfera the print version (free): www.bafu.admin.ch/ud-1050-e For e-bike fans, we recommend the forest from an ant’s perspective in to the pleasure experience. In Argo- markets and park products can be 6170 Schüpfheim 3996 Binn of , approx. 160 km from 7433 Wergenstein Savognin, Bivio Stradung 42 7530 Zernez from Chur 7532 Tschierv Order number: 810.400.055eng “Route Verte” – From Schaffhausen the Jura vaudois Park, home to the via Jurapark, for example, wine found on the homepage of the Swiss Canton: Lucerne Tel. 041 485 88 50 Canton: Valais Tel. 027 971 50 50 Zurich Tel. 081 650 70 10 7460 Savognin Canton: Graubünden Tel. 081 851 41 41 Tel. 081 850 09 09 to Geneva, this trail will take you larg est known colony of wood ants? walks take place on two weekends Parks Network: Area: 394 km2 [email protected] Area: 180 km2 [email protected] [email protected] Canton: Graubünden Tel. 081 659 16 18 Area: 170.3 km2 [email protected] Canton: Graubünden [email protected] This publication is also available in German, accross the living landscapes of the in the year. The Jura vaudois Nature Population: 17 800 www.biosphaere.ch Population: 1300 www.landschaftspark-binntal.ch Canton: Graubünden www.naturpark-beverin.ch Area: 548 km2 [email protected] Population: 0 www.nationalpark.ch Area: 199 km2 www.biosfera.ch French and Italian. Jura mountain range’s six Nature Park runs mushroom excursions > www.parks.swiss/en/discover_ Municipalities: 7 Municipalities: 5 Area: 412 km2 Population: 5400 www.parc-ela.ch Municipalities: 4 Population: 1600 Parks (www.larouteverte.ch). led by a mycologist, and between the_parks/eating_drinking/ Population: 3200 Municipalities: 6 Municipalities: 1 © FOEN seventh updated edition: June and September the Diemtig- Municipalities: 11 January 2019 tal Nature Park invites visitors to “discovery days” on five alps, with