Starting the day at sunrise, immersed in the serene beauty of the Niederhorn near Lake Thun, is an unforgettable experience.

From July to September, guided wildlife observation tours take place here every Thursday morning, offering a unique opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat before the trails fill with visitors.

Early Morning Begins

The adventure starts in the early hours, with a bus ride from Thun to Interlaken. The meeting point is at the Beatenberg funicular's base station at 6:30 a.m. The staff operates an early morning cable car ride just for the group, transporting participants to the summit in time to greet the day. Upon arrival, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the peaks, painting a breathtaking backdrop for the excursion.

Observing the Wildlife

The group, led by a knowledgeable wildlife specialist, begins the hike along the ridge toward Burgfeldstand. Armed with binoculars provided by Swarovski Optik, participants eagerly scan the alpine landscape. The silence is occasionally broken by distant calls of animals, adding to the magical atmosphere.

During the hike, sightings include grazing chamois and marmots darting across meadows. A ptarmigan unexpectedly scurries past, and a lone mountain goat is spotted navigating the rocky terrain. The specialist shares fascinating insights into these animals, pointing out their behaviors and habitats.

Stunning Alpine Views

As the hike continues toward Gemmenalphorn, the panorama unfolds to reveal distant peaks, including the snow-covered summit of Mont Blanc. Though some animals remain elusive on this clear, sunny day, the group is treated to an array of wildlife sightings, making the journey worthwhile.

A Memorable Morning

The adventure concludes near the Oberberg hut, where the group observes playful marmots in the alpine meadows before descending back to the mountain station. The morning's highlights include the sense of tranquility, the thrill of wildlife encounters, and the awe-inspiring mountain scenery.

Tips for Exploring the Niederhorn

The guided wildlife tours are available during summer, requiring registration a day in advance. The circular hike covers approximately 7.5 kilometers with 450 meters of altitude gain, taking around 2.5 hours of hiking time. Participants should bring snacks and water, as there are no stops for refreshments along the route. For those seeking additional excitement, scooters are available to ride from the Vorsass middle station back down to the valley.

This excursion combines the beauty of nature, a touch of adventure, and the joy of observing wildlife, creating memories that linger long after the day has ended.