Natural sites

Felsenheide nature reserve

Felsenheide nature reserve
Felsenheide nature reserve. © Kanton Bern
  • Place
    • Pieterlen

    Ort

Remarkable nature reserve above Pieterlen with its "Nature" themed trail.

Located above Pieterlen, the Felsenheide nature reserve captivates with a landscape shaped by glaciers. Erratic boulders and polished rock slabs reveal the geological story of the Jura mountains. This arid environment shelters a very rare rocky heath, where downy oaks, hornbeams, box trees, and relict plant species thrive. A mosaic of habitats offers precious refuge for a wide range of reptiles and insects—discreet, yet vital to the balance of this ecosystem. Between wild nature and mineral silence, Felsenheide invites quiet observation and discovery of a fragile ecosystem preserved from human interference.

To explore the reserve, follow the "Nature" themed trail set up by the municipality of Pieterlen. Along the way, you can stop at a playground, a picnic area, or a scenic pavilion—and most importantly, enjoy views of the cliffs from all angles: from below, from the side, and from above! Keep your eyes open for rare species, or arm yourself with patience and wait for the cliff falcon to appear. The hike takes about 1.5 hours, climbs roughly 450 metres, and is considered difficult.

Good to know
Good to know
    • In the protected area, it is prohibited, among other things, to:
    • enter water bodies and riparian vegetation,
    • leave marked paths,
    • ride horses outside designated trails,
    • set up tents, caravans, or other shelters,
    • camp,
    • disturb, capture, injure, or kill animals, as well as damage or destroy their habitats, shelters, nests, or clutches,
    • release animals.
Access
Zugang
Contact
Contact
    • Réserve naturelle Felsenheide bei Pieterlen / Naturschutzgebiet Felsenheide bei Pieterlen Pieterlen 2542 Pieterlen
    Main contact
Felsenheide nature reserve
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