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Intro

Tracing the footsteps of Emmental writer Jeremias Gotthelf, the route leads into the middle Emmental valley. The sweeping views and farmhouses adorned with flowers make this loop a fabulous day trip through the gently rolling hills.

Detour / Closure

There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/cycling-in-switzerland/route-699

Description

The route begins in Langnau, the Emmental's rural centre, from where it gently leads uphill. Follow the scattered farms between forests and meadows and roll leisurely down the valley to the Undere Frittebach brook. The ascent to Mörisegg requires a bit of effort but rewards you with a Gotthelfian farm idyll on the secluded hilltop.

A scenic descent takes you to Trachselwald Castle and onward to Sumiswald, the scene of the famous novella The Black Spider. Here you can discover the original inns from Gotthelf's stories. The historic restaurants tell the stories of times long past – it's worth stopping for a bite to eat. Shortly afterwards, you reach the place where the famous poet worked. In Lützelflüh, Gotthelf was known as pastor Bitzius. A visitor centre in his honour brings the wisdom and characters from his novels to life.

The route's second part includes a climb on minor roads to the hamlet of Aspi. At the top, it's worth pausing a moment and taking in the magnificent views of the mosaic of forests, colourful meadows and fields. The last passage leads along the crest of the Blaseflue, affording views of the entire Alpine panorama. On almost traffic-free lanes, you follow the slopes before returning to Langnau via Signau.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Langnau i.E.
Destination
Langnau i.E.
Ascent
1500 m
Descent
1500 m
Distance
60 km
Distance on tarred ways
53 km
Distance on natural surface
7 km
Physical requirements
Difficult
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/cycling-in-switzerland/...

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 699

Distance

60 km

Ascent

1500 m

Travel information: Langnau i.E.

Current Offers

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    valid: 01.06.2026 - 28.02.2027

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    valid: 01.06.2026 - 31.03.2027

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    valid: 25.05.2026 - 28.02.2027

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    valid: 25.05.2026 - 31.10.2026

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    valid: 27.05.2026 - 16.12.2026

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