Natural monuments around Orpund Switzerland are characterized by their riverine landscapes and interconnected waterways. The area is shaped by the Alte Aare and Zihl Rivers, along with the Nidau-Büren Canal, which create a diverse aquatic environment. Visitors can explore the floodplain landscape along the Alte Aare, known for its biodiversity and opportunities for observing local flora and fauna. Orpund is also integrated into regional cycling and hiking networks, offering accessible routes to experience these natural surroundings.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Orpund.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Taubenloch Gorge, stretching for almost 3 km, is a romantic gorge with steep rock faces, bridges, tunnels, and easily accessible paths. The Schüss River flows through the gorge. It originates in the St. Immertal valley and empties into Lake Biel.
0
0
The facilities also have a paid parking lot for cars.
1
0
The Bieler Taubenloch, which stretches for almost 3 km, is one of the most popular destinations in the region. The romantic surroundings and the pleasant freshness make crossing the footbridges and strolling past caves and overhanging rocks a pleasure.
2
0
Very beautiful gorge, easy to walk, with rest area, bridges, cave, rushing water, manageable gradient.
3
1
The Old Aare – a fascinating river landscape between Aarberg and Büren. It is a valuable habitat for numerous animals and plants. People from near and far love and appreciate it as an attractive relaxation area. This unique idyll was created as a result of the first Jura water correction in the 19th century. The Alte Aare Hydraulic Engineering Association, together with private and public partners, ensures that this landscape is preserved. Source https://www.alte-aare.ch/
0
0
The observation tower is located in the Häftli nature reserve on the Alte Aare in the municipality of Büren an der Aare in the canton of Bern. The tower, made of wood, is 10.5 meters high. 36 steps lead to the viewing platform at a height of 7.5 meters. The platform offers a view of the birdlife of the Old Aare. So far, well over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the Häftli, almost 80 of which are breeding birds. A small breeding colony of night herons from 1967 to 1970 was unique in Switzerland. Since then, it has only appeared as a migrant and rare summer guest. Important breeding birds include little grebes and great crested grebes, black kites, water rails, kingfishers, lesser spotted woodpeckers, nightingales and orioles. The Häftli is an important wintering site for waterfowl, including several hundred teals, gadwalls and wigeons. Various species of herons, birds of prey, limousines and numerous songbirds can be observed as they pass through. The Häftli is also an important retreat for amphibians. So far, grass frogs, water frogs, tree frogs, common toads, natterjack toads, great crested newts, pond newts, mountain newts and fire salamanders have been identified. Source https://www.ala-schweiz.ch/index.php/reservate/haeftli
0
0
The leisure facilities on the lake are a very popular meeting place for young and old in summer. The facilities, which are embedded in nature conservation, are the gateway to the lake. In addition to the sunbathing lawn and the access to the lake, the facilities are also known for their boat harbor, the bistro and the beach volleyball court. Source https://www.moerigen.ch/freizeit-tourismus/freizeitanlagen-am-see
1
0
A great nature in the gorge! Beautiful light in front of a magic landscape.
2
0
Among the most popular natural monuments are the impressive Taubenloch gorge, which offers a designated hiking trail directly from Biel, and the Alte Aare Nature Reserve, a valuable river landscape known for its rich habitat and as a relaxation area. Visitors also enjoy the Waterfall in Taubenloch Gorge, especially after rainfall.
Yes, several natural monuments around Orpund are family-friendly. The Taubenloch gorge and its waterfall are accessible via a designated hiking trail suitable for families. The Alte Aare Nature Reserve also offers gentle paths ideal for family walks. Additionally, the region is integrated into national cycling routes like the 'Mittelland Route for Families', providing accessible ways to explore the natural surroundings.
Orpund's natural landscape is primarily defined by its interconnected waterways, including the Alte Aare and Zihl Rivers, and the Nidau-Büren Canal. You'll encounter serene riverine environments, diverse aquatic habitats, and extensive floodplain landscapes along the Alte Aare. These areas are rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities for birdwatching and observing local flora and fauna. Highlights like the Taubenloch gorge showcase dramatic rock formations and a rushing river.
The area around Orpund is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking through the Taubenloch gorge or along the Alte Aare Nature Reserve. Cycling is also very popular, with national routes like the 'Aare Route' passing through. For more specific routes, you can find numerous options for hiking, cycling, and running around Orpund.
Yes, the floodplain landscape along the Alte Aare and the various nature reserves are excellent for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The Alte Aare Nature Reserve is a valuable habitat for numerous animals and plants. The Häftli Observation Tower, located in the Häftli nature reserve, specifically offers views of the birdlife of the Alte Aare, making it a prime spot for enthusiasts.
The natural monuments around Orpund can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings vibrant growth and blooming flora, while summer is ideal for cycling and enjoying the waterways. Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors, and even winter offers a quiet beauty, especially along the river landscapes. The Waterfall in Taubenloch Gorge is particularly impressive after rainfall, which can occur in any season.
Yes, the Häftli Observation Tower is a notable viewpoint located in the Häftli nature reserve. This 10.5-meter high wooden tower provides a platform at 7.5 meters, offering excellent views of the birdlife and the surrounding landscape of the Alte Aare. The Taubenloch gorge also offers several scenic spots along its trail.
The Alte Aare Nature Reserve is a fascinating river landscape situated between Aarberg and Büren. It's a crucial habitat for a wide array of animals and plants, making it a significant ecological area. This unique idyll was formed as a result of the first Jura water correction in the 19th century and is cherished by locals and visitors alike as an attractive relaxation area.
Absolutely. The Alte Aare Nature Reserve is specifically highlighted as an attractive relaxation area. The Mörigenbucht Nature Reserve, with its lake access and sunbathing lawn, is a popular meeting place for leisure and relaxation. Many of the trails along the rivers and through the floodplains offer tranquil spots perfect for a picnic.
The Mörigenbucht Nature Reserve is a small, significant nature reserve on the lake, featuring a wet meadow, Grosseggenried, silting zone, and alluvial forest. It served as one of the last refuges for original animal and plant species after the Jura water correction. Beyond its ecological importance, it's a popular recreational spot with leisure facilities, a boat harbor, a bistro, and a beach volleyball court, making it a vibrant gateway to the lake.
While the main natural monuments are well-known, the interconnected waterways of the Alte Aare, Zihl Rivers, and the Nidau-Büren Canal offer many quiet, less-traveled sections. Exploring the extensive floodplain landscapes along the Alte Aare can reveal serene spots rich in biodiversity, away from the more frequented paths. The Mörigenbucht Nature Reserve, though popular, still retains a sense of natural charm with its unique ecosystem.
Visitors particularly appreciate the accessibility of these natural areas directly from urban centers, such as the Taubenloch gorge from Biel. The impressive natural scenery, especially the dramatic rock faces and rushing rivers, is a highlight. Many also value the tranquility and the opportunity for birdwatching and observing nature in reserves like the Alte Aare Nature Reserve. The combination of water features and green spaces for active recreation is a major draw.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Orpund: