The Bettlachstock: a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site with a panoramic view.
Overview
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Intro
Considered one of nature’s true gems and located on the sunny side of the Jura, the Bettlachstock is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. An unspoilt natural environment with centuries-old beech forests, it provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of animal and plant species. Idyllic hiking paths give families and nature lovers the opportunity to experience the fascinating region up close.
The Bettlachstock in the Canton of Solothurn juts out from the first chain of the Jura mountains like a huge, moss-covered tree stump. The eroding action of two streams to its north have detached it from the mountain range, leaving it to stand in splendid isolation. The high proportion of old trees and deadwood in its beech forests plays an important role in biodiversity. Over the past centuries, this has created a habitat for plants and animals that is little disturbed by humans. This is why the forest reserve was added to the UNESCO List of “Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe” in 2021.
The feeling of isolation is further emphasised by the sheer face of the Wandfluh to the north. The best views of the Bettlachstock can be enjoyed from this 2.5 kilometre-long and around 50-metre-high rock face: the Wandfluh is a regional landmark and can be seen from miles around. The view from the top is equally breathtaking. On clear days, the viewpoint offers visitors a panoramic view of the Swiss Plateau, the Pre-Alps and even as far as Mont Blanc. Information panels provide details about the origins of the Bettlachstock and its flora and fauna. Educational fun for young and old. The photo spot is the perfect place for a memorable souvenir of the trip.
The area around the Wandfluh and the Bettlachstock is best explored on foot. Travel by public transport is recommended. From Grenchen, the “Unterer Grenchenberg” station can be reached by bus in around 30 minutes. From here, marked hiking trails lead through the area. They are suitable for people of all ages and are particularly popular with families. There are plenty of welcoming barbecue spots for an enjoyable picnic with a magnificent view.
Before returning back down into the valley, it’s worth making a detour to the “Unterer Grenchenberg” restaurant. This is located right next to the bus stop and the limited-capacity public car park. Home-made specialities and delicious cream slices are on offer here. The popular Swiss puff pastry dessert enjoys a reputation far beyond the canton’s borders and sweetens the end of an eventful day.
More information on the other themed trails in Aargau and Solothurn.
General information
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Families, Groups, Individual
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Outdoor
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Discover the surroundings
Contact
Kanton Solothurn Tourismus
Frohburgstrasse 1
4601
Olten
Switzerland
Phone
+41 (0)62 213 16 20
info@kantonsolothurntourismus.ch
kantonsolothurntourismus.ch
Show Route
Aargau Tourismus
Laurstrasse 10
5200
Brugg
Switzerland
Phone
+41 (0)62 823 00 73
info@aargautourismus.ch
aargautourismus.ch
