Gorges Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht)
The Aare Gorge is a dramatic natural canyon carved by the Aare River through limestone cliffs near Meiringen. Over thousands of years, the river has sculpted a narrow, 1.4-kilometer-long gorge with vertical rock walls reaching up to 50 meters high. Visitors walk safely through the gorge on elevated wooden paths and tunnels, suspended directly above the rushing turquoise water. The mix of raw geological power and accessibility makes the Aare Gorge a favorite for all ages. It’s a perfect stop for a family-friendly adventure that brings you face-to-face with the forces that shaped the Swiss Alps.
The Aareschlucht, or Aare Gorge, is one of Switzerland’s most impressive geological attractions, located near the town of Meiringen in the Haslital region. Over thousands of years, the Aare River carved its way through a limestone ridge, forming a deep and narrow gorge that stretches 1.4 kilometers in length. The result is a breathtaking natural corridor where vertical cliffs tower up to 50 meters above, and in places, the canyon narrows to just over a meter wide.
Visitors explore the gorge on a well-constructed walkway system, which includes secure wooden paths and tunnels anchored into the rock walls, hovering directly above the roaring waters. The journey through the gorge offers a mix of dark, enclosed passageways and sudden openings with stunning views of the turquoise river below. In summer, the cool air inside the gorge is a refreshing contrast to the warm temperatures outside, making it a popular stop on hot days.
The Aare Gorge is open seasonally from spring through late autumn and is accessible from two entrances—West (near Meiringen) and East (near Innertkirchen). You can walk through the gorge in one direction and return by trail or train, making it easy to plan a half-day visit.
Educational signs along the route provide insights into the geology, history, and natural formation of the gorge. The site is also wheelchair accessible in parts, and suitable for children and adults alike.
Whether you’re interested in geology, photography, or simply looking for an unforgettable nature walk, the Aare Gorge delivers an immersive experience into the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Other Attractions