Welcome to the Oeschinensee UNESCO World Heritage Site! The nature around Oeschinensee is unique - and particularly worthy of protection. To keep it that way, our rangers are out and about on a regular basis: they accompany visitors, answer questions and work to protect this impressive landscape. Those who are mindful and respectful when out and about will experience the true magic of this special place - safely, relaxed and unforgettable. Find out more on this page about how to protect plants, animals and paths and how to move responsibly in nature.
Experience exciting first-hand insights: the ranger at Oeschinensee imparts up-to-date and in-depth knowledge about nature, wildlife, safety and correct behavior in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Short, concise and straight from the experts.
Oeschinensee lies at over 1,500 meters. As beautiful as the panorama is, the terrain and weather can be challenging. Good preparation will protect you and make your day in the great outdoors an unforgettable experience. Here you will find a helpful equipment list.
What should I bear in mind when choosing hiking equipment?
Oeschinensee in winter - beautiful, but challenging
Oeschinensee lies at over 1,500 meters above sea level. As impressive as the winter landscape is - snow, ice, cold and changes in the weather can be challenging. Good preparation will protect you and make your day in the great outdoors a safe and unforgettable experience.
Here you will find a helpful winter equipment list.
What should I bear in mind when choosing winter equipment?
The area around Kandersteg is home to a variety of ongoing ecological and biological processes. The diversity ranges from Antarctic conditions around the ice worlds of the Kanderfirn or the Blüemlisalp glacier to partly Mediterranean flora and fauna. The development of the various ecosystems with their associated plant and animal communities is constantly changing.
In the sensitive alpine ecosystem, changes in temperature, for example, manifest themselves quickly. At the "Spitzen Stein" below the Doldenhorn, for example, this causes bed-load slides on a large scale and allows the consequences of climate change to be immediately recognized and studied. The melting glacier creates new habitats with a corresponding increase in plants and animals. As a result, the alpine habitat around Kandersteg is constantly gaining in biodiversity.
No award symbolizes sustainability as impressively as UNESCO World Heritage status. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Lake Oeschinen. Whether hiking, skiing and snowboarding, family adventures, culinary delights or marveling at the majestic Blüemlisalp massif - unforgettable experiences await you. Discover the wide range of activities and let yourself be enchanted by the unique magic of Lake Oeschinen.
LINK "Dani the Ranger" looks after the Oeschinensee .
The untouched nature around Oeschinensee in the Bernese Oberland is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a valuable habitat for rare plants such as gentian, edelweiss and alpine rose as well as numerous wild animals and birds. More and more people are being drawn to the mountains, lakes and forests. This also increases the pressure on this sensitive natural environment. At the same time, an understanding of ecological relationships is often lost.
This makes it all the more important to know and adhere to the Outdoor Guidelines. They help to preserve the unique landscape - for animals, plants and future generations.
Wild camping and spending the night outdoors are prohibited in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Camping, bivouacking, and spending the night in hammocks or similar accommodations are prohibited by court order. Oeschinensee patrol the area, and wildlife must not be disturbed, especially at night. There is a campground at the valley station in Kandersteg. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.
Flying drones and model aircraft is prohibited in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. A court-ordered ban is in effect, which takes precedence over national regulations (FOCA) and cantonal no-fly zones. This is to protect nature and wildlife and to ensure that other guests are not disturbed. As a drone pilot, you are required to familiarize yourself with the applicable area restrictions before every flight. Some drone manufacturers have created their own geofencing systems—however, the areas shown there are determined solely by the manufacturer and do not necessarily Oeschinensee to the actual restrictions at Oeschinensee .
Due to the risk of wildfires, open fires are permitted only at official barbecue sites in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. It is prohibited to cut down trees, branches, etc., in the wild. Firewood or “barbecue bags” can be purchased at the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee the lakeshore or brought from home.
For your own safety, stay on the official hiking trails in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Before each hike, check the difficulty level and your equipment (footwear, clothing, food, etc.), and obtain detailed information about the weather and current hazard conditions. Avoid hiking during twilight hours and at night. Do not enter restricted areas or protected zones.
Public restrooms are located in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, at the upper and lower stations of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car ,Oeschinensee at the mountain restaurant directly on the lakeshore. Additional restrooms are available in Oeschinensee. Please avoid using the restroom in nature. However, if you must use a “natural restroom,” please do not leave behind any paper, tissues, or wet wipes.
Entry into wildlife sanctuaries, plant protection areas, and restricted zones is prohibited in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Information signs mark the protected areas where special rules apply. Do not leave the marked trails and slopes, and always follow the on-site information signs. Plants must not be dug up, picked, or trampled.
Cycling of any kind is prohibited in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Out of consideration for our guests, the natural environment, and for safety reasons, the Oeschinensee can Oeschinensee be visited on foot. There is a court-ordered ban on cycling (mountain biking, e-biking, etc.). In addition, many forest trails pass through ecologically sensitive areas where rare and shy wildlife find refuge and quiet zones.
Dogs must be kept on a leash in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. A strict leash requirement applies in wildlife quiet zones and protected areas, as well as during the grazing season (for cows, sheep, etc.). Please dispose of dog waste at the waste sorting stations.
Keep a safe distance from animals in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Walk past them calmly and quietly without disturbing them. Animals may be observed, but must not be fed or touched. While farm animals and wildlife are often accustomed to human sounds, they are disturbed by noise, proximity, and the smells of people and dogs. Take your trash with you and leave nothing behind—animals can become seriously ill or die from consuming trash and food.
Please collect your trash and dispose of it at the designated trash stations in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Trash sorting stations are located at the upper and lower stations of theOeschinensee Cable car , at the mountain coaster along the main hiking trails.
More and more people are drawn to the mountains, lakes and forests. The pressure on nature has increased, but at the same time the understanding of nature has decreased. There is a lack of understanding of ecological relationships and the needs of animals and plants.
That's why our Outdoor Guidelines are also clearly visible in strategically important places such as the digital information boards or on posters. Read them now!
The municipalities located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, such as Kandersteg, have committed themselves in the Konkordiaplatz Charter—along with the surrounding municipalities—to comply with all regulations applicable within the protected areas on municipal land. Our Outdoor Guidelines are based on these and other applicable regulations. Please observe the Outdoor Guidelines and their extensions to protect wildlife and nature in Kandersteg and the Bernese Oberland—both in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee the Sunnbüel area.
There are snakes, including venomous ones, in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Stay on the trails and keep your dog on a short leash. Remain calm at all times and move away whenever possible if you see a snake. If you are bitten and are unsure what kind of snake it is, immediately contact emergency services (1414) and the ranger (0041 79 603 28 78). If possible, take a photo of the snake and closely observe the bite site.
Following rainfall and significant temperature fluctuations (day/night), the risk of rockfalls, wet avalanches, debris flows, and falling rocks has increased in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel areas near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Warning signs include fresh impact marks, rock deposits, and areas where rock has broken away. The more exposed the trail is, the higher the risk—in such areas, it is important to proceed quickly. Hiking is always at your own risk. Many rockfalls are often triggered by other hikers, climbers, or animals. Avoid throwing stones, as you do not know who might be in the terrain below your path.
Wear shoes suitable for hiking—preferably hiking boots—and bring a backpack and hiking poles. Wear clothing appropriate for the season and make sure you have adequate sun protection (sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen). It’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes. Also, pack enough food and drinks. A hiking map or our free overview map (available at the valley and mountain stations) is recommended. Remember to bring a fully charged cell phone with the most important emergency numbers (limited cell service in parts of the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland), a first-aid kit, and a pocket knife.
In case of an emergency in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, call emergency services immediately at 1414. In winter, you should also notify the SOS patrol (0041 79 481 01 12). SOS roomsOeschinensee available at the upper and lower stations of Cable car Oeschinensee Cable car . Defibrillators are located at the upper and lower stations as well as at the Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee the lakeshore.
Be sure to check in advance for the latest local conditions in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, particularly regarding closures, hazards, and weather conditions. Our outdoor guidelines, information boards, and status displays will help you navigate the area. Adjust your goals and recreational activities to match your fitness level and equipment—you will be in high-alpine terrain in some areas. Allow plenty of time for your hike, bring sufficient provisions, and check your equipment.
The Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area in the Bernese Oberland near Kandersteg consists of various protected zones, such as the plant conservation area, BLN, UNESCO World Heritage Site, dry meadows, wildlife sanctuaries, and more. Many plant species are very rare and strictly protected. Please stay on the trails. As a general rule: picking, digging up, trampling, and cutting down plants are discouraged or prohibited.
When snowshoeing in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, you’ll be in the natural habitat of wild animals—please do not disturb them and stay on the marked trails. Wear appropriate, warm winter hiking boots and clothing. Also, always check the weather forecast, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
Tent canopies and sunshades are not permitted in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, as they disturb large and small game as well as birds and have a lasting negative impact on their behavior. However, we strongly advise our guests to take adequate precautions against the sun: Bring hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, stay in the shade as much as possible, and cover your skin.
When in the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel area near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, remain calm; do not startle or frighten the animals. Always close gates and stay on the hiking trails. In general, cows are curious but harmless. Whether large or small, cows and cattle will always perceive your dog as a predator. Keep your dog on a leash and keep it under control.
A large section of the southeastern shore of Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland has been designated a restricted area by the Canton of Bern due to the risk of falling rocks and rockfalls. Access to this area is strictly prohibited—it is life-threatening! Please also alert others who wish to enter the area and/or call the ranger at 0041 79 603 28 78. For more information, visit: Spitze Stei – Municipality of Kandersteg.
Fishing from the shore and from a rowboat, as well as ice fishing, are permitted on Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland with a cantonal fishing license and in compliance with the fishing regulations of the Canton of Bern. Day licenses can be purchased at Oeschinensee mountain restaurant Oeschinensee online. Rowing boats (including those with fish boxes) can be rented directly at the lake. Oeschinensee no right to fish without a license on Oeschinensee . Please observe the information sheet on mountain lake fishing in the Canton of Bern.
Please note that theOeschinensee Cable car Oeschinensee Kandersteg, in the Bernese Oberland, does not transport water sports equipment (SUPs, folding boats, foil boards, etc.). Rowing boats Oeschinensee for rent at Oeschinensee .
Please post only activities that are permitted in the Oeschinensee Sunnbbüel areas near Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland. Posting prohibited activities may result in legal consequences. Keep in mind that content on the internet remains visible for a long time. On websites and social media, only post photos, videos, or quotes from people who have given you their express consent to do so (personal rights). Commercial photo shoots are Oeschinensee permitted at Oeschinensee .
In the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, always stay on the marked and open winter hiking trails and avoid taking shortcuts—this also applies to snowshoers. Before every hike, carefully check the difficulty level and ensure your equipment is suitable. Be aware that you will be crossing ski slopes and sharing them in some places. For the “Ice Walk,” pay attention to the frozen lake’s accessibility status and the avalanche bulletin (SLF)—check the information screens and signage in the area.
In Oeschinensee, there isOeschinensee official launch site for paragliders located at the top station of theOeschinensee Cable car . There is no official landing area in Oeschinensee. Please avoid causing any disturbance or danger to people and animals, and practice your sport only in the designated flight zones around Kandersteg.
The ski resort at Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland operates in accordance with international FIS regulations on the slopes. For your safety and the safety of wildlife, please stay on the marked ski trails and follow the signage. The slope and rescue service monitors and patrols only the marked and open slopes as well as winter hiking trails.
Parties and events involving loud music, alcohol, and noise are inappropriate and not permitted. However, we welcome groups that respect the animals and plants and enjoy nature thoughtfully. Please follow the outdoor guidelines, be considerate, and help protect nature in the Bernese Oberland, the Kandersteg region, and the Oeschinensee Sunnbüel areas.
No, Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by various protected areas, including plant conservation areas, dry meadows, and wildlife sanctuaries. Due to these special protective measures, all (commercial) events and drone flights are prohibited by court order. Compliance with these rules is monitored by park rangers.
The SAC Doldenhorn Hut, the SAC Blüemlisal Hut, and the SAC Fründen Hut are located in the Oeschinensee area Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland.
You have the option of calling the ranger on 0041 79 603 28 78. Alternatively, you can also speak to him in person while he is carrying out his inspection tour of the area. Do not hesitate to get in touch with him to clarify any questions or exchange information.
When ice swimming in Oeschinensee Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, special caution is advised when water temperatures are around freezing—do not underestimate the cold! Ice holes must be at least 50 m away from the marked “Ice Walk.” Additionally, the SOS patrol must be notified of any ice drilling (0041 79 481 01 12). No entry or staying in restricted areas (see signs, fences, yellow buoys). The frozen lake may only be entered when officially open, and only between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. You must leave the area before dark; please note the last gondola ride from the mountain station.
Our nature is unique - and worth protecting. At Oeschinensee, in the heart of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, our rangers work every day to preserve this extraordinary landscape. In our explanatory videos, you will learn in a vivid way how sustainable behavior, safety in the mountains and the respectful treatment of nature and fellow human beings contribute to an unforgettable experience.
Oeschinensee is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Please follow the 10 rules: Stay on the paths, take your garbage with you, avoid drones and wild camping, keep dogs on a lead and keep your distance from wild animals. Plan smart - get your boarding pass online.
Flying drones and model aircraft is prohibited around Oeschinensee . They disturb the peace and quiet, put wild animals under stress and impair the experience of nature for everyone. Please respect the ban and help to protect this unique place.
The Spitze Stei is constantly in motion - millions of tons of rock are constantly shifting. There are therefore monitored exclusion zones to protect everyone. Please respect the barriers and stay on the official paths. This will keep you safe.
With Smart Ticketing, you can choose your time slot flexibly online. This way you avoid waiting times and start your adventure stress-free.
Overnight stays in the open air are not permitted at Oeschinensee - to protect nature and wildlife. The night belongs to the animals - they need this time to rest. Respect the peace and quiet at night and refrain from spending the night in the great outdoors.
Leashes are compulsory in wildlife rest areas and during the grazing season to protect nature. Wild animals depend on undisturbed retreats. Please keep your dog on a lead and dispose of dog waste in the waste stations - for an intact nature and respectful coexistence.
Cows are not petting animals - especially if they have calves. Always keep at least five meters away, walk calmly and evenly and refrain from running or touching. Always keep your dog on a lead and away from the animals. This will keep you safe - and the cows relaxed.
We leave nothing but footprints on Oeschinensee . All garbage - even the smallest scraps, handkerchiefs or cigarette butts - belong in the official garbage stations or back in the valley. This is how we protect animals, plants and the unique experience of nature.
Wildlife sanctuaries are refuges for animals - especially in winter, when any escape can be life-threatening. Please stay on the marked paths, do not enter protected areas and respect the signs. This is how we protect nature and its inhabitants together.
After the winter, the ground on many paths is unstable. Despite closures, dangerous situations and rescue operations still occur. Please respect the barriers and stay on the open hiking trails. This will protect yourself - and nature.
Beautiful moments in nature are precious. Please ask others nicely before photographing or filming them and respect their privacy. Let's protect nature together and enjoy it mindfully - for ourselves and all those who come after us.
Small, even steps, a steady pace and trekking poles are easy on the joints - both uphill and downhill. With good equipment and a boarding pass, you can start your next adventure on Oeschinensee relaxed.
Sturdy hiking boots and snowshoes, weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection are a must - even in winter! Also pack enough water, provisions and a map. For a safe and uniquely beautiful stay here with us at Oeschinensee.
Always take a charged cell phone with you and know the emergency numbers (Rega: 1414, police: 117). Inform someone about your planned route and avoid walking alone. This way you can be reached in an emergency and are better protected.
For a safe and unforgettable experience: choose a route that suits your fitness level and find out about the weather and trail conditions in advance. Check the current status reports and take a map, plenty of water and a charged cell phone with you.
Walking correctly makes all the difference - for more energy uphill and less strain downhill. What is important? A steady pace, stable steps and the right use of poles. Add to this the right equipment and your visit will be a real experience.
Avalanches are a real danger in the mountains. Stay on marked trails and check our information boards in the area and the current avalanche warnings before you set off. Did you know? The Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research in Davos (SLF) is a world leader in avalanche research.
The bearded vulture is nationally protected and plays an important role in the ecosystem. Did you know? It eats almost exclusively bones, which it can digest with its strong stomach acid. This is how it keeps nature clean. By the way: the rare griffon vulture also lives here - please don't disturb it!
Fire salamanders, Alpine salamanders and Alpine newts are rare inhabitants of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. They need damp, undisturbed habitats. Respect protected areas - this will help to preserve these sensitive amphibians.
The chamois is a skilled climber and perfectly adapted to steep terrain. Their hooves have flexible soles that provide particularly good grip on rocks. In summer they graze on alpine pastures, in winter they seek shelter in the forest. The best way to observe them is from a distance.
Rare alpine plants bloom at Oeschinensee , from bright gentians to the protected edelweiss. These flowers are an important part of the ecosystem - please do not pick or trample them. Leave them where they grow so that everyone can enjoy their beauty.
Wild camping is prohibited at Oeschinensee - not only to protect nature, but also for your safety. Asps and adders seek warmth and quiet places, exactly where illegal camping often takes place. Use official campsites and stay on marked paths.
The beautiful Oeschinensee and its surroundings are part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site - one of the most valuable natural areas in the world. With respectful behavior, we all contribute to the sustainable preservation of this heritage in the Bernese Oberland.
The entire region around Oeschinensee in the Bernese Oberland is home to unique ecosystems, rare animal and plant species and centuries-old cultural landscapes. Their daily protection preserves this valuable heritage for future generations.
In winter, all wild animals are dependent on any source of energy. Avoid disturbances by respecting wildlife rest areas and keeping quiet. Stay exclusively on marked winter routes to protect the sensitive vegetation.
When nature awakens in spring, a sensitive phase begins for plants and animals. Ground-nesting birds and fresh vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Stay on the paths and respect protected areas - you will be making a valuable contribution.
A visit to the mountains can be environmentally friendly: travel by public transport, take your garbage back with you, stay on marked trails and respect wildlife rest areas. Less noise, fewer tracks - for an intact nature.
We provide unique and unforgettable moments in the imposing mountain world in front of the Blüemlisalp massif.
