Top 4 Gorges around Biel

The most popular gorges for hiking near Biel are the Taubenloch Gorge and the Twannbach Gorge. The Taubenloch Gorge is easily accessible directly above Biel/Bienne, offering a refreshing and family-friendly walk. The Twannbach Gorge, near Lake Biel, is known for its waterfalls and lush scenery, especially enjoyable in warmer months.

The Taubenloch Gorge offers an easy and family-friendly trail suitable for all fitness levels, though sturdy footwear is recommended. The Twannbach Gorge hike is relatively easy but includes some steep downhill sections and stairs, making good footwear essential. The Combe Grède, while currently closed, is generally considered a challenging and sporty hike with ladders.

You can expect varied terrain. The Taubenloch Gorge features maintained paths through steep limestone cliffs, with wooden footbridges. The Twannbach Gorge path winds through wooded areas with meter-high rock walls, waterfalls, and can be wet and slippery in places. The Combe Grède, when open, involves steep ascents and passages with ladders.

The Taubenloch Gorge is easily accessible by public transport; you can take a bus from Biel railway station to the "Taubenloch" stop. For the Twannbach Gorge, the starting point can be reached via the "Vinifuni" funicular from Ligerz to Prêles, or from Magglingen.

The gorges offer dramatic natural beauty. In the Taubenloch Gorge, you'll see steep limestone cliffs carved by the Suze river, showcasing diverse stone layers. The Twannbach Gorge is famous for its numerous waterfalls, lush, almost rainforest-like sections, and meter-high rock walls. The Combe Grède is known for its wild environment and steep, almost vertical cliffs.

Yes, the Taubenloch Gorge is particularly family-friendly, with accessible hiking paths and a wildlife park near the Bözingen entrance. The Twannbach Gorge is also suitable for families, though it's not recommended for strollers due to stairs and uneven terrain.

The Taubenloch Gorge is generally accessible all year round, offering a cool escape on warm days. The Twannbach Gorge is particularly popular during hot summer months due to its pleasant temperatures and shade, but it's typically closed in winter and reopens around Easter. Spring is ideal for seeing its waterfalls at their fullest.

The Taubenloch Gorge has free admission. For the Twannbach Gorge, there is a small admission fee (CHF 2 for adults, CHF 1 for children) which contributes to the maintenance of the paths.

Beyond hiking through the gorges, the region around Biel offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the Luesia - Puy Moné Loop, and extensive mountain biking routes, including the Mallos de Agüero – Mallos de Agüero loop. There are also traffic-free bike rides available, like the View of Biel Castle and Church – Biel Castle loop.

As of June 2025, the Combe Grède path is closed until further notice due to heavy storms. When it is open, it offers a challenging hike with ladders and is known for its wild nature and wildlife, including chamois and marmots. Always check official hiking websites for reopening information before planning a visit.

Yes, near the Taubenloch Gorge's Bözingen entrance, there's a wildlife park with picnic areas. For the Twannbach Gorge, there are picnic and BBQ spots along the trail, and the village of Twann offers restaurants with local culinary delights and wines, perfect for a post-hike meal.