Emerald Area Oberaargau
Dive into the Emerald Area – a quiet gem in the Oberaargau that is much more than just a beautiful name. This cozy walk takes you through a particularly species-rich and protected landscape with rare habitats and fascinating animal species. Ideal for everyone who wants to combine peace, nature, and culture.
GPS data (geodata) for this tour
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Printable map
The hike starts at Murgenthal station. From here you head west until just before the Murg, where you pass under the old railway line onto the idyllic hiking path. Along the Rot canal, you walk towards Roggwil – accompanied by the splashing of the water and the diverse life along the path.
After crossing under the route of the Bahn 2000 railway, you enter the heart of the Emerald Area: a varied landscape characterized by quiet forests, lush meadows, and rich wildlife. With some luck, you may encounter kingfishers, marsh grasshoppers, or even the rare helmet azure damselfly – one of the many treasures of this region.
After a short stretch along the forest edge, you reach the old sawmill in Roggwil. From here, it is not far to the impressive Cistercian monastery of St. Urban. Founded in 1194, it is one of Switzerland’s most significant cultural monuments. The magnificent monastery complex invites you to linger and offers – alongside its spiritual atmosphere – a diverse cultural program.
More information about the Emerald Area can be found here.
Tip from the author
- Take your time to discover and observe the animals. Upon arrival in St. Urban, we recommend a visit to St. Urban Monastery.
- The route can also be walked in the opposite direction.
Map and elevation profile
Details
Features
Best season
Directions
The first 100 meters lead you along the main road (westwards). Soon you reach a hiking signpost that turns left and briefly leads through a side street. Then you enter the Emerald Area. Here begins the habitat of the kingfisher. Along the Rot canal, the route leads you along shady paths. Soon you hear the water rushing and arrive at the confluence of the Langete and Rot rivers.
You then walk over meadows through the small village of Walliswil near Murgenthal. On the left, you see the old sawmill of Roggwil. Continuing along the forest edge, you soon spot the majestic monastery of St. Urban.
If you want to extend the route a little, you can stroll from Murgenthal along the Aare towards Wynau, up to Aarwangen Castle. This route is described here.
Getting there
- Public Transport
By train from Olten or Langenthal.
- Privat Transport
Accessible by car from Langenthal or coming from Olten.
- Parking
Possible around the station depending on the day of the week.
Useful information
Safety Information
Equipment
Good footwear, picnic, binoculars, time
Additional information
- In Murgenthal, right next to the station, there is a bakery.
- The route is easy to walk with a small stroller.
- Stop for a meal at the Klostergasthaus Löwen in St. Urban. A garden terrace is quietly located behind the house.
- Information from the Federal Office for the Environment
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