10 excursion tips for guaranteed spring feelings

Just back from the Azores, the vegetation here in Switzerland still seems very sparse to me. But if you look closely, you will find buds sprouting here and there. And in some places, there is even a cheeky early-ripening shrub in full bloom. And I’m sure you feel the same way I do. On beautiful spring days, I am drawn to the fresh air. And that’s why I’ve put together ten suitable excursion tips just in time for the beginning of spring. Inspiration for all those who want to experience the awakening of spring outside in nature.

#1 Marvel at the cherry blossom

Experiencing the cherry blossoms in Japan is high on my travel bucket list (and – shhhh A nice foretaste – or alternative for those who don’t want to travel so far – is offered by the Rosengarten in Bern. Every year, the blossoming cherry blossoms captivate the people of Bern and offer a wonderful after-work excursion tip

#2 Hiking through gorges

Since the snow usually persists in the higher altitudes until June, hikes in the Swiss Plateau and Jura are ideal in April and May. There, the vegetation is more advanced and shines with rich green tones. A leisurely spring hike with a fine stop for refreshments leads through the wildly romantic Areuse Gorge. Also recommended is the detour to the Twannbach Gorge. And if you’re in the mood for a longer hike, you can slow down step by step on the Doubs de Fil surrounded by pure nature.

#3 Waterfall for the first time

If you’re already in the mood for fresh mountain air, I recommend a detour to Lenk. The Obersimmentaler Hausweg with destination Simmenfälle is a great day trip destination. And if you’re thinking “yes, the journey – that’s too long!”, then treat yourself to a night of relaxation in the wonderful Lenk Lodge – the short break feels like a two-week holiday.

#4 Waterfall for the second time

A lower-lying waterfall alternative is the Rhine Falls. This is particularly spectacular after rainy days, when, combined with the melting snow, a lot of water flows towards the North Sea. If you head towards the Rhine Falls, combine the excursion with a stroll through the old town of Schaffhausen or a visit to the pretty town of Stein am Rhein.

#5 In search of crocuses

A great spring phenomenon are the crocus-covered slopes. There are some well-known spots in the Emmental and we discovered last May at the (still very wintery) Seebergsee in the Bernese Oberland in all its glory.

#6 Green as far as the eye can see

Solothurn’s local mountain is both a worthwhile excursion tip in itself, or a great starting point for an extended hike over the green Jura hilltops. With views towards the Swiss Plateau, the foothills of the Alps and the Alps, there is no stinginess on the way. By the way, it’s also worthwhile with rather mixed weather forecasts – we tested it last spring.

#7 Charming stroll through the city

Why always Zurich, Bern and Lucerne? How about a detour to the charming small towns of Aargau. Bremgarten, Baden, Laufenburg or Rheinfelden? The cantonal capital of Aarau also surprises with an extremely charming old town centre. A special tour is dedicated to the topic of “Art in Public Space“. An afternoon is over in no time.

#8 Test of courage

340 metres of thrills high above the Gummischlucht gorge – the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge has challenged numerous visitors since its opening in 2012. If you overcome your weaker self and reach the wobbly centre, you will be rewarded with a phenomenal view over Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps. On nice days, you (as a non-taxpayer of Sigriswil) have to pay a “road toll” of 8 CHF. This is well worth the adventure.

#9 Obstblütenzauber

The interest in the blossoming fruit tree plantations in eastern Switzerland is so great that the Lake Constance region has set up a bluest telephone. There you will be kept up to date on where which fruit varieties are currently in full bloom. Alternatively, you can just start hiking on the off chance. An entertaining route leads from the village of Nussbaumen cross-country to the Ittingen Charterhouse.

#10 Excursion tips with guaranteed sunshine

And if rainy days are forecast here on the northern side of the Alps, then the weather check in Ticino is worthwhile. Whether strolling along the promenade with a gelato in Locarno, enjoying the postcard view from the local mountain Cardada, taking a lap across the lake on the pedalo or indulging in the dolce farniente… The main thing is that the warm spring sun tickles your face.

I hope you are now inspired by these excursion tips and enjoy a nice trip.