Your first hike in Adelboden will definitely not be the last. The extensive network of trails goes far in to the Swiss mountains and connects some of the most beautiful alpine paths.
Adelboden in the Bernese Oberland is very well known amongst winter sports lovers, as skiing in Adelboden is one of Switzerland’s best kept secrets. But Adelboden also lures summer hiking enthusiasts that love the wild nature, uncrowded trails and views that make you feel on top of Switzerland.
In this blog article we will cover the Vogellisi theme trail on the Vogellisiberg at Sillerenbühl.
History of The Vogellisi Theme Trail
If you are Swiss, you will have heard of the girl from Adelboden named Lisi. She can speak to the birds and they speak back to her so her friends and family started to call her Vogellisi. She also knows pretty much every mountain herb and their healing strengths. The whole story is based in Adelboden in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland. See map for the location.
It is a children’s story book written by Annemarie Stähli, and due to the popularity of the story, the Vogellisi theme trail was created.
The Vogellisi hike in Adelboden
From Adelboden village you will have to take the scenic cable car ride to Sillerenbühl (1974m) via the Bergläger (1488 m). Many other Adelboden hiking trails also start at Sillerenbühl.
TRAVEL TIP: There are two gondolas which have been transformed into Vogellisi story telling gondolas. If you do have the time wait for these special ones.
You can look through the book whilst the story is being told (only in German).
Before the Vogellisi Hike
As this is relatively a short hike of only 3.5km and all downhill, we suggest that you plan to spend some time at Sillerenbühl mountain station before starting the hike.
The self-service restaurant has a large terrasse with stunning views and great local dishes. You could even go up there for lunch and do the hike afterwards.
A great playground with a water feature, bouncy castle, climbing frames and a zip line will keep the little hikers well occupied while you enjoy the views over the Bernese Oberland and Valais alpine peaks which include the Wildstrubel.
Visit The Skynest; Definitely a posing feature for the whole family is the Skynest which is located at the start of the Vogellisi hike. Take a moment and click away. An Instagram worthy stop for sure.
On the Vogellisi Trail
Follow the ten different posts which tell the story of the adventures of Vogellisi and her friend Karl-Joseph.
The children will learn how to call the birds, climb the eagle’s nest and venture into the forest where they will discover exciting things and creatures.
Good to know; The path is all downhill and it is NOT pushchair friendly.
The actual theme trail that involves Vogellisi’s story is only 1.2km long. At the end of this you will find a large BBQ station and play area. This area is called Gilbachegge.
End of the Hike; From this point the hike is down an alpine road followed by a short stroll through the forest until you reach the middle station of Bärglägeren.
It is also here where another BBQ station can be found.
To end the hike, hop on the gondola at Bergläger and ride back down to the Oye station in Adelboden.
Hiking Map Vogellisi Theme Trail
To get the exact information about the trail CLICK on the map below.
Hiking facts from Sillerenbühl
Distance: 1.3 km (actual theme trail) followed by 2.1 km normal hiking path, or Trottinette.
Ascent: 0 metres / Descent: 488 metres
Highest point: 1975 metres above sea level
For a more virtual impression, visit our Instagram account and go to the Adelboden Highlights
Combine the Vogellisi theme trail with the Trottiland
If your children are aged 8 and over you could combine the Vogellisi theme trail with a trottinette downhill all the way to Adelboden.
If this is an option, you need to book the trottinettes with the team up at Sillerenbühl before starting your hike.
You would pick up the mountain scooters at Gilbachegge where the actual theme trail finishes.
There are only a few trottinettes stored there, so make sure to book them first at the top.
Alternatively you can also enjoy the downhill mountain scooters in the morning, and do the Vogellisi hike in the afternoon. There are so many options to have a great family day in Adelboden.
The map below shows you the different trottinette routes. Click on it to get full access.
Other things to do in Adelboden
If you like hiking in Adelboden then for sure you could easily spend weeks here. The valley offers so much beauty that even just sitting somewhere on a bench and admiring the views is time well spent.
However here are some special things that you should not miss when in Adelboden.
Swing on the Giant Swing at Tschentenalp
Don’t miss a trip up to the Tschentenalp (1950m)
The colourful trio of cable cars will bring you up the mountain where once again beautiful views await.
It is also from here where some of your Adleboden hiking adventures could start as many trails lead to peaks, over meadows and to secluded alps.
If you are short on time we suggest to hike up to the viewpoint – Schwandfeldspitz (2025m). This is also the point from where many paragliders are take off and drift away into the sunset. A beautiful place to spend a few quiet minutes.
The hike only takes 10 minutes up a goat path.
After the viewpoint, head to the giant swing which is at the other end of the station about 3 minutes walk from the restaurant.
A swing with a fantastic panorama. Check out our Instagram post from this spot.
During summer 2022, there was also a trampoline park installed which was payable. 10 minutes for Chf 8.- if I remember correctly.
Visit the Engstligenalp and Waterfalls
Another must do when hiking in Adelboden is the circular hiking route at Engstligenalp (1964m). This route is pushchair friendly and every kid that knows GLOBI will be meeting this blue parrot up at Engstligenalp.
The gondola departs from “Unter dem Brig” and while you are riding up you will pass the famous Engstligenfalls, which is the 2nd highest waterfall in Switzerland.
Hiking to the Engstligen Waterfall
From the Engstligenalp you can walk to the Engstligen waterfall viewpoint which only takes about 30 min one way.
This hike is not pushchair friendly unlike the flat circular route at the alp. But definitely well worth the hike down and back up again.
There is actually a hike that leads all the way back down to the valley floor which gives you different views of all levels of the Engstligen falls.
Flow-trails and biking in Adelboden
This time we did not bring our bikes, but we have seen the great flow-trail from Höchsthorn down to Bergläger, and wished we had the bikes with us. The Höchst-trail is new and opened in 2022. They say it is a flow trail for all levels with its 3.8 km and 410m altitude change it sure sounds perfect.
To bring the bikes up the mountain you need to purchase an extra day pass that covers the area and costs 10.- per bike/day.
Ticket Prices Adelboden – Lenk
- From summer 2022, guests visiting Adelboden – Lenk with a GA/half tax fare card will receive a 50% discount on all mountain cable car tickets.
- Kids with the junior card use the cable cars for free.
- The tickets for the Sillerenbühl from where the Vogellisi theme trail starts cost Chf 40.- /adults and CHf 20.- per child (without any reduction).
To get the exact prices for this route and the other cable cars and chairlifts, check their website. Depending on your planned activities you may be better getting an Adelboden – Lenk day pass.
Accommodation in Adelboden
To get the most out of this amazing place, we recommend you stay one or even two nights in Adelboden. Below are a few different accommodations which may be of interst.
Hotels in Adleboden
Try the Ferien – Und Familienhotel Alpine Adelboden, offering 2 saunas, a petting zoo with goats, a playroom and a playground for children. All rooms have a private bathroom, cable TV and free Wi-Fi. A great place for the whole family.
The Cambrian is located in the centre of Adelboden and offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Featuring a 700 m² spa area and a heated outdoor pool with breathtaking mountain views.
Revier Mountain Lodge Adelboden Minimalistic chic! Allergy-friendly rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi in all areas and a bar. The accommodation offers family rooms and a terrace. Private parking is available.
Trips in the Bernese Oberland Area
More Activities near Adelboden
- Oeschinensee – Hiking the Panorama Trail
- 17 + things to do in Lauterbrunnen
- Grimsel Pass – Family Hike Oberaarsee and Glacier
- The Giessbachfälle – Waterfall at Lake Brienz
- Mürren – Almendhubel Playground
- Visit Lake Brienz in the Interlaken Region
I hope that the information provided here will prove itself useful when Hiking in Adelboden on the Vogellisi Theme Trail.
If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask in the comments below. This way other readers can join in the conversation.
Note: This trip was in cooperation with Vogellisi-Berg in Adelboden, thank you again! These great collaborations are here for us to describe our experience, and help you plan your day.
Thank you & Never Forget to Explore
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