Wattenwil combines a flat Gürbe floodplain with elevated districts. The village center lies on the plain; Gmeis and Mettlen are also districts, while Rain (Grundbach) is higher up.
Thanks to its elevated location, Grundbach is a popular place for recreation and excursions for residents of the cities of Thun and Bern. As a sunny terrace that is usually free of fog, the district offers views of the Lake Thun region and the Bernese Alps.
Hiking between the Gürbe and the Gurnigel region
In summer and winter, Burgerwald forest invites visitors to enjoy long walks and hikes extending into the Gurnigel region. This makes it possible to explore Wattenwil’s landscape on foot in every season, without every outing needing to be the same length.
A longer hike follows the Gürbe Whitewater Trail from Wattenwil to the Gurnigel mountain lodge and takes about 4¼ hours. The trail through the wild Gürbe Gorge also shows how the Gürbe is controlled: more than a hundred wooden and concrete barriers slow the river’s force. There are also places to swim along its course.
Those travelling with a stroller will find a suitable option on the lowest section of the Gürbe Whitewater Trail: this section is stroller-friendly.
Village history and architectural styles
Wattenwil was first mentioned in official records in the mid-13th century, under the name “Watinwile.” Finds and excavations suggest that the area was inhabited in the Bronze Age and Roman era. These early indications and the later written record provide different chronological reference points for the history of the village.
The older buildings also display a range of architectural styles, including the Alpine Tätschhaus and Länderhaus house types, as well as Mittelland houses and half-timbered buildings dating from around the turn of the last century. The rectory and church are also among Wattenwil’s culturally interesting buildings.
The church is on the Way of St. James and offers pilgrims a stamp for their pilgrim passports. It is open during the day. This makes it both a specific stopping point for pilgrims and a place to learn about local architectural and cultural history.
Annual events
The Wattenwil market is held every year on the first Wednesday in October. Around 200 market vendors offer a wide variety of goods for sale. In the evening, various clubs and restaurants invite visitors to relax and socialize; the market day therefore includes both the market and a communal evening gathering.
The Swiss National Day celebration takes place every year on July 31. Traditionally, it includes a procession with torches and lanterns. Participants are offered a bratwurst.
The municipal council organizes the Fête de la Musique each year on June 21. It is open to the public, and musicians and singers perform free of charge. The recurring dates for the market, Swiss National Day celebration and music festival offer three different events throughout the year.
The Heimenried barbecue area
The Heimenried barbecue area is located almost on the municipal boundary between Wattenwil and Burgistein. It is not rented out, but is available for use. This is important to bear in mind when planning: the site can be used, but is not available for rent.
Discover more destinations: Niedermuhlern, Rüti bei Riggisberg, Belp, Uttigen, Burgistein, Rüeggisberg, Gerzensee, Kehrsatz.
See the overview of the wider area: Seftigen.
