The Laupen region

For the Schlossfestspiele, the grand castle towering above the idyllic town of Laupen in the Sense valley becomes a place for encounters, classical music and culinary delights. The varied festival programme and the castle tavern offer musical and culinary treats for every taste. The concerts take place under the open summer sky or in the castle’s great hall, depending on the weather.

On New Year’s Eve, all of Laupen anxiously awaits the last strike of the clock at eight p.m., when a group of figures makes its way from the castle down to Bärenplatz square. Disguised with costumes and scary wooden masks, the "Bäsemanne", "Blaateremanndli", and "Glöggeler" roam the alleys of the small town, ridding it of the evil spirits with the help of bells, inflated cow bladders, and brooms. This ancient custom is called "Achetringele" and is still celebrated today the way it has been for centuries. An unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages!

Every year on 21 June, the Battle of Laupen Memorial Day is celebrated on Blidenplatz near Laupen Castle. After an aperitif and the ringing of the Pankratius bell, which dates back to the time before the Reformation and is dedicated to St Pancratius, the festivities begin. The crowning glory is the launch of a projectile from the Blide, a functioning trebuchet reconstructed according to old plans, in the direction of the castle walls. The event is rounded off with speeches and bratwursts courtesy of the local Burgergemeinde (Citizens’ Community).

The restaurants in the Laupen region offer the perfect combination of culinary delights and hospitality. From traditional Swiss dishes to Mediterranean classics to French haute cuisine, from simple bistros to grand country inns – the diversity leaves nothing to be desired. 

There is a wide variety of accommodations in the Laupen region, with everything from campgrounds to holiday lets to farm apartments to conference hotels in old castles.

When the holiday spirit becomes tangible and Laupen is filled with glittering lights, it is time for the town’s yearly Christmas Market. For two days, various exhibitors present their goods and visitors are treated to performances by organisations from the surrounding area. Christmas carols in the background create a festive mood, and mulled wine and roasted chestnuts keeps you warm inside and out. And as always, “Samichlous” (Father Christmas) will be at the Market to bring joy to visitors of all ages and spread holiday cheer. 

Whether as a competition or a team building event: archery with a longbow and wooden arrows is fun, creates a good atmosphere and can be practised by anyone. The archery hall in Laupen offers the perfect opportunity to try your hand at the sport.

Fun, action and entertainment for the entire family await at the Beo Funpark in Bösingen near Laupen. On an area of over 4,000 square metres, visitors can jump, climb, slide and run as if there were no tomorrow. Whether indoors or outdoors, in summer or winter, action-packed or leisurely – a good time is guaranteed.

The Laupen region offers varied hiking experiences along the Saane, Sense and Schwarzwasser rivers. Over suspension bridges, through riverside forests, past historical sites such as ancient Roman paths and old wooden bridges – each route has its own charm. Idyllic bathing spots, fire pits and restaurants such as the Sensebeach or the Kreuz in Gümmenen invite you to take a break and recharge. For those interested in ornithology, the Auried nature reserve with its rich birdlife awaits. Thanks to the good S2 train connections, Laupen is the ideal starting point for an idyllic hike surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

It doesn’t stop at hikes – the region also has plenty to offer in terms of swimming. Whether you prefer a natural bathing spot or a conventional outdoor pool: you’ll find it here. The Regio Badi Sense outdoor pool in Laupen, for example, is known beyond the region for its diverse offerings. The Saane-Sense-Spitz natural swimming spot, on the other hand, is located in the pretty little town yet surrounded by nature. Idyllic barbecue spots included.

You can’t miss it: this grand, majestic castle complex from the 12^th century is the region’s landmark. It sits high on a sandstone cliff and offers visitors a beautiful panoramic view of the Chasseral, the Jura range, the Stockhorn range, and the Bernese Alps in the distance.