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Aare Gorge
The Aare Gorge near Meiringen in the Bernese Oberland is a remarkable natural monument carved over millennia by the erosive power of the Aare River. Spanning 1.4 kilometers in length, the river has sliced up to 200 meters deep into the limestone ridge known as the 'Kirchet.' In some sections, the gorge is only a few meters wide, emphasizing the sheer force and velocity of the rushing water. Since 1888, the gorge has been accessible to the public via a series of secure wooden walkways and tunnels, offering spectacular views of the geological formations. Visitors walk directly above the turquoise torrent, admiring polished rock faces and cascading side waterfalls. The gorge remains refreshingly cool even on the hottest summer days, making it a favored excursion spot. Information displays at both the western and eastern entrances explain how the gorge was formed by glacial meltwater at the end of the last ice age. In the evenings, the gorge is often illuminated, highlighting the dramatic shapes of the stone. It also plays a key role in the regional production of hydroelectric power.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Museum der Landschaft Hasli · Sherlock-Holmes-Museum · Aaresschlucht Westeingang
- Nearby: Melchsee-Frutt (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -8 | -8 | -4 | 1 | 6 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 8 | 4 | -2 | -7 |
| Rain mm | 81 | 69 | 89 | 103 | 154 | 151 | 148 | 165 | 106 | 107 | 114 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the gorge is exactly 1,400 meters.
- At its narrowest point, the gorge is only about 1 meter wide.
- The rock walls rise vertically up to 200 meters high.
- Opened for tourism as early as the year 1888.
- The walk through the gorge takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Illumination is provided on selected evenings in July and August.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Aare Gorge (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long does the walk through the Aare Gorge take?
Is the gorge wheelchair accessible?
Are dogs allowed in the gorge?
When is the gorge open?
Is there evening lighting?
Aare Gorge: where is it located?
Aare Gorge: what is there to see?
Aare Gorge: when is the best time to visit?
Aare Gorge: why is it worth visiting?
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