Gurten in winter

Hiking and leisure paradise high above Bern

Around the Gurten you will find various suggestions for hikes and walks.
At 858 meters above sea level, an impressive view of the city of Bern, the Jura and the Alps awaits you, as well as the best sun terrace in the region. The Gurten offers a varied network of hiking and walking trails in a quiet, car-free environment and delights visitors of all ages with a large adventure playground for children and a wide range of leisure activities. A place that combines enjoyment of nature and relaxation in the immediate vicinity of the capital.

Winter fun

Curling offers a sporty and sociable experience on cold days, where team spirit and fun take center stage. Whether it's a relaxed evening with friends, work colleagues or family, curling is a great fun activity. The curling rink is available from November to March on the Bahnhöfli meadow and can only be booked in advance.

Weather conditions

As soon as there is enough snow, the toboggan run and ski lift are open each day. The toboggan run is not illuminated.

On the Gurten website, symbols on the start page inform you whether or not the toboggan run and ski lift are open.

Ski equipment

Skis, poles and boots can be hired  in the container at the children ski lift.

Toboggan hire

Traditional wooden sledges can be hired from the mountain station of the Gurtenbahn funicular railway.

The observatory on the Gurten - a look into the universe for the whole family.

Since April 2022, the observatory on the Gurten has been thrilling astronomy fans both young and old. "Astro Events" explains the complex physical phenomena of the universe in an understandable and entertaining way and the telescope allows you to see the ring of Saturn or a planetary nebula live.

• Observation evenings are held every Tuesday. Astro Events explains the phenomena of the universe in an entertaining way and offers a glimpse into distant galaxies.
• In the winter months, children's observation evenings are held on selected Tuesdays for young planet fans, with models, crafts and, of course, a look through the telescope. 
• Special celestial events take place several times a year, for example a shooting star night or a lunar eclipse. On these occasions, the observatory puts on an evening with the wow factor. 
• The observatory is open to the public a few days a year, free of charge, so that everyone can have a look through a telescope.

The number of visitors per evening is limited and pre-registration is necessary.

The Gurten funicular operates daily from 7.00 hours every quarter of an hour, at 00/15/30 and 45 hours. Deviations from the timetable are possible when passenger numbers are high.

Monday–Saturday:

Last ascent       23.30 hours
Last descent     23.45 hours

Sunday & public holidays:

Last ascent       20.00 hours    
Last descent     20.15 hours

    
Subject to change without prior notice

In good weather, the Bahnhöfli take-away stand is open, where you can treat yourself to mulled wine, punch, tea or soup.

Opening hours:

Monday–Saturday: 13.00–17.00 hours
Sunday: 09.00–17.00 hours

In this warm and welcoming self-service restaurant, a range of buffets offers you a wide selection of salads, hot foods and delicious desserts. Here you will find something to suit every taste. For young guests, there is a children’s plate available, and older children can enjoy our changing selection of roesti dishes.
In good weather, you can dine outside on the two terraces, and children can play to their heart’s content in the two dedicated play rooms. 

Opening hours:

Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 hours
A brunch is offered on Saturday and Sunday.

The Restaurant Gurtners spoils you with specialties and regional dishes. Enjoy a unique view of the city of Bern – whether on the terrace on warmer days or in the restaurant with its large panoramic windows.

Opening hours:

Monday–Saturday*: 11.30–14.00 hours and 17.30–23.00 hours
Sunday**: 11.00–17.00 hours
*from 14.00 to 17.30 hours small afternoon offer
**Gurtners Sunday brunch