Grenzpfad Napfbergland

The third stage of the Grenzpfad (boundary path) begins on the Napf. At 1,406 metres, it is the highest vantage point between the Emmental and Entlebuch. The view stretches from the Jura in the north to the Bernese Alps in the south and the Central Swiss Alps in the southeast. The fact that you can only reach the summit on foot or by mountain bike adds to its unique charm.

The hike starts with a steep descent that follows the boundary between the cantons of Lucerne and Bern. A gravel road takes you to the alpine inn at Stächelegg. It's located above the legendary Änziloch, the epitome of a remote and deserted place. Gazing into the abyss of the steeply sloping Fluh is well worth it.

The wide path now continues south along the hillcrest and steeply sloping pastures. On the right side, you look down into the Fankhausgraben, a deep side valley typical of the Napf region. These formed because the area was not glaciated during the last ice age and was primarily shaped by the erosive forces of water. Starting from the highest point, the Napf, this created steep, forested gullies.

The route continues along the hillcrest through varied scenery. Sometimes the slope drops steeply on both sides of the trail; in some places, the trail leads over a dense network of roots, and then suddenly, a plain opens up. The picturesque landscape is crisscrossed by winding gravel roads and characterised by coniferous forests; the expansive pastures are dotted with impressive individual trees.

At Grätliegg, the first half of the hike is behind you. The trail continues via Schafmatt to Risisegg. Burbling fountains and hanging geraniums lend the wooden farmhouses their typical charm. After Vorder Risisegg, at 1,004 metres, another steep descent leads to Trubschachen in the heart of the Emmental. You have reached the end of a beautiful stage at the railway station.

In Trubschachen, the large Kambly biscuit factory catches the eye. Here you can bake your own biscuit creations or watch the confectioners at work. Horse-drawn carriage rides and a show pottery, the Balmeggberg permaculture farm or the local history museum are well worth a visit.