Brienzer Rothorn: Ibex Trek

Steep cliffs, rugged ridges, scree slopes and rock-strewn alpine pastures – the two-day Ibex Trek in the Sörenberg region passes through beautiful scenery: habitat of the ibex, past masters of survival in high mountain regions. You also get to experience warm hospitality. After climbing from the Rossweid to the Lattgässli, the spectacular ridge path leads to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn and its enchanting 360° panoramic views. Deep down in the valley lies turquoise blue Lake Brienz, while the vintage steam train huffs and puffs its way up and down the mountain from the Bernese side. Occupying the background is the mighty chain of the snow-covered Swiss Alps. These are panoramic views that accompany you on day two of the Ibex Trek as you return to Sörenberg via the Eisee Saddle and Arnihaaggen. But before that, you can expect a very special experience: a restful night in the cosy Eisee refuge, where you can recharge your batteries in readiness for the following day.

After breakfast, you follow the signs to the Eisee Saddle, where you can see the morning's fresh milk descend in a hoist from the alp down to the dairy. Ibex are often to be seen among the steep scree slopes along the path. This continues to the Arnihaaggen, which – after a short ascent – you leave behind. The descent crosses interesting slate structures. Superb panoramic views of the Bernese Alps and Lake Brienz can be seen up to the cairn installation shortly before the Schönbüel refuge. You then return to Sörenberg via Schönbüel, Fontanen and the Jänzimatt. Alternatively, take the PostBus from the Glaubenbielen Pass to Sörenberg, but note that the service is infrequent.

Nature-lovers are in their element on the Brienzer Rothorn. Once hunted to extinction, the ibex was reintroduced here and elsewhere one hundred years ago. The colony has since blossomed. Due to the region's proximity to the Augstmatthorn conservation area, ibex can be observed here, as well as chamois, and golden eagles rising on the thermals.