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Niederried Nature Reserve

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

The Niederried Reservoir nature reserve in the Canton of Bern is a wetland of international significance, recognized as a Ramsar site. It was created following the construction of the Niederried-Radelfingen hydroelectric power plant between 1912 and 1913, which dammed the Aare River. The resulting landscape is characterized by extensive reed beds, willow thickets, and remnants of alluvial forests, providing a vital habitat for numerous endangered animal and plant species. The area is particularly important as a resting and wintering ground for migratory waterbirds and as a breeding site for rare species such as the kingfisher and the great bittern. Shallow shore zones also offer good conditions for amphibians and various insects. Visitors can explore the area via marked trails and several observation points designed to allow wildlife viewing without disturbing the sensitive ecosystem. The reserve is regarded as one of the most valuable near-natural river sections in the Swiss Plateau.

Location: Switzerland
Top sights: Burg Oltigen · Papiliorama · Faverried
Nearby: Lyss (11 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	-1	-1	3	8	12	16	18	17	13	9	4	0
Rain mm	85	66	86	83	124	113	113	118	83	100	85	96

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Niederried Nature Reserve is a significant wetland for water birds, especially during spring and autumn migrations. Many species breed here in summer.

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Best time of day

Early morning water birds are most active, offering the best viewing opportunities. In the evening, many birds return to their roosts.

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Etiquette

Please stay on designated paths and observation platforms to avoid disturbing the birds. Dogs must be kept on a leash to protect breeding areas.

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What to bring

Binoculars or a spotting scope are essential for birdwatching in the wetland. Rubber boots and waterproof clothing are recommended as it is often damp.

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Getting there

The nature reserve is located on Lake Niederried in Bern canton, near the village of Niederried bei Interlaken. There is parking and a train station nearby.

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What to expect

Birds may hide in the reeds or be at a great distance. Take your time and calmly look for movement, even on the far shore.

Geography

Coordinates

46.99280, 7.23480

Facts

The area was formed by damming the Aare River in 1913.
Niederried has been protected as a Ramsar site since 1990.
Over 200 species of birds have been recorded within the reserve.
The protected area covers approximately 300 hectares.
The reservoir is situated at an elevation of 461 meters.
It serves as a wintering ground for up to 10,000 waterbirds annually.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Papiliorama Kerzers4 km · SWExplore →

Lyss11 km · NEExplore →

Bümpliz-Oberbottigen11 km · SEExplore →

Murten City Walls12 km · SWExplore →

Lac de la Sauge12 km · WExplore →

St. Peter's Island13 km · WExplore →

Nidau Castle Ruins15 km · NExplore →

Köniz16 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Niederried Nature Reserve (5)

Burg Oltigen 🏰 castle

Burg Oltigen in Niederried bei Murten, a castle dating from around 1000 AD.

Papiliorama 🎡 recreation

Papiliorama features free-flying butterflies and exotic plants inside a tropical dome.

🌐 papiliorama.ch🕒 Apr-Oct 09:00-18:00 "Sommerzeit"; Nov-Mar 10:00-17:00 "Winte♿💶

Faverried 🌿 nature

Natural wetland area in the Niederried Wetland.

Gemeindeverwaltung Radelfingen 📍 landmark

The seat of the local municipal administration in Radelfingen.

🌐 radelfingen.ch🕒 Mo 08:00-12:00, 13:30-18:00; Tu-Th 08:00-12:00, 13:30-16:30;

Gemeindeverwaltung 📍 landmark

The local municipal administration building in the region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Niederried?

It is an important water and migratory bird reserve along the Aare river.

Can one observe birds there?

Yes, there are observation hides and quiet paths for birdwatchers.

Is the area accessible year-round?

Yes, hiking trails run through the nature reserve all year round.

Do I need binoculars?

Binoculars are highly recommended to better see the shy animals.

Is cycling allowed there?

Cycling is only allowed on the marked official paths.

Niederried Nature Reserve: where is it located?

Niederried Nature Reserve is located in Switzerland.

Niederried Nature Reserve: what is there to see?

Highlights include Burg Oltigen, Papiliorama, Faverried.

Niederried Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Niederried Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?

The Niederried Reservoir nature reserve in the Canton of Bern is a wetland of international significance, recognized as a Ramsar site.

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