Emmental

At the “Let it Beer” festival in the Burgdorf market hall, everything revolves around beer for two full days. More than 30 breweries, from local favourites to international craft beer newcomers, invite visitors to explore and taste. DJs provide the soundtrack, while a wide range of food stalls, offering everything from empanadas to gyozas, keep hunger at bay. Visitors can gain fascinating insights into the art of brewing, put their taste buds to the test during tastings, and expand their beer knowledge along the way.

In summer, Moosegg transforms into a stage with a view: For nearly 30 years, the Moosegg Open-Air Theatre has captivated audiences with powerful productions that bring Emmental, its stories, and its people to life in a truly unique way. In 2025, visitors can once again look forward to outstanding open-air theatre – for the second-to-last time ever.

Schwingen (Swiss wrestling) has deep roots in the Bern region. The Bernisch-Kantonales Schwingfest (the Bern Cantonal Wrestling Festival) remains the largest of its kind in the canton and continues to draw great public attention. Sawdust, “Zwilch” wrestling trousers, and often traditional edelweiss shirts – no Schwingfest is complete without them. In this iconic Swiss sport, two competitors – known as “Böse” (“Wicked ones”) – face off in the arena. More than Hornussen or stone throwing, Schwingen is considered the Swiss national sport.

Local producers craft their goods with a wealth of knowledge, passion and dedication. At least 80 percent of the ingredients in Emmental’s regional specialities come from the region itself, and the results are diverse, top-quality and, most importantly, delicious. Whether it’s traditional Bernese sausages, local beer, pasta, fine chesses from village dairies or fresh Emmental honey, the region’s culinary heritage is as rich and varied as the landscape itself.

Emmental’s traditional inns and guesthouses offer something for every taste, from refined gourmet cuisine and hearty regional dishes to cosy bars perfect for winding down. In these lovingly run inns and restaurants, culinary craftsmanship meets genuine hospitality. Whether you’re a foodie or a fan of down-to-earth cooking, you’re in for unforgettable culinary experiences. And of course, regional classics like crispy Bauernrösti (farmer’s hash brown) and delicately sweet meringues are must-tries. These two specialities are known far beyond the region, so don’t miss out on them.

Accommodation in the region is wonderfully diverse: choose from stylish hotels, cosy Bed & Breakfasts, homely holiday flats or nature-based glamping experiences. For something truly authentic, stay on a working farm or swap your tent for a comfy bed of straw. There are also group lodgings and family-friendly campsites that make the perfect homebase for your stay.

If you don’t want to miss out on scenic walks and day trips during winter, just strap on your snowshoes and set off on a discovery tour through the Emmental region. Sweeping views are guaranteed. When a light breeze drifts through the valley, ice crystals sparkle within reach and the path winds past snow-covered hills and fir trees, it can only mean one thing: it’s time to go snowshoeing in Emmental.

Imagine this: with every step, the snow crunches beneath your feet. The trail winds up and down the hills, sometimes through snow-covered pine forests, sometimes past welcoming inns. That’s what a winter hike in Emmental promises. At the top, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the snowy Alps. And if you enjoy a slower pace, there’s always time to stop in for a hot chocolate or round off the day with a delicious cheese fondue.

Glide through a winter paradise. Whether classic or skating style, Emmental offers kilometres and kilometres of cross-country trails just waiting to be explored. From valley floors to rolling hills, from challenging routes to beginner-friendly loops, the trails in the region are as varied as the landscape itself.

Emmental offers plenty of small but charming ski areas. It’s an ideal place to learn the skiing basics on one of the many gentle slopes, especially for the little ones. These compact and often affordable ski areas are perfect for a family day out. Prefer gliding on ice instead of snow? You’ll find great indoor ice rinks in Langnau and Burgdorf, or natural outdoor ice rinks across the region that are perfect for spinning a pirouette or scoring a goal.

It’s no wonder that six of our ten e-bike highlight routes run through Emmental. With more than 600 kilometres of signposted trails, riders can glide up and over the hills with ease, powered by a little e-power. Welcome to “Hügu Himu” – hill heaven.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramas, pass by the classic Emmental farmhouses, and find plenty of cosy inns. And the surprising variety of local flora and fauna only adds to the experience. Each route has its own character – some are shorter, others are longer, with relaxed stretches or more athletic climbs.

Thanks to the many options, every e-bike fan is sure to find their dream ride.

Lace up your hiking boots and off you go! Gentle, rolling hills, scenic ridgeways, picturesque landscapes and striking farmhouses make every hike in the region exciting. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk through forests and meadows or a more athletic climb to the next panoramic viewpoint – Emmental has the perfect trail for every pace and taste. Add the sound of the Emme and Ilfis rivers, and your hiking experience will be complete.

Burgdorf – a charming little town in the heart of Emmental – combines medieval charm and a vibrant cultural scene. Towering above the old town sits Burgdorf Castle, over 800 years old, perched majestically atop a ledge of rock. It’s the perfect place to explore, marvel, and enjoy. Winding alleys, historic buildings and the surrounding green hills invite visitors to dive into the past and soak up the authentic Emmental way of life. Whether it’s a short stroll through the old town, a brunch with a view, or the starting point for an e-bike tour through the valley, Burgdorf has something for everyone.

Time to jump in. Water lovers are in good hands in Emmental, whether you’re after a quick cool-down in the Emme River or prefer swimming a few lengths in a pool. There’s no shortage of great places to swim in the region. So: Pack your swimsuit, find your favourite spot and enjoy summer to the fullest!