Visit the impressive 13th century ruins
Embark on a journey of discovery into the Middle Ages and visit the spectacularly situated castle. The ruins date from the early 13th century and represent the only surviving remnants of a hillside castle in the Canton of Berne. The last partial restoration took place in 2003 and 2004.
A 20-minute hike takes you from Wilderswil to the imposing Rothenfluh ruins. The name Rothenfluh, which means ‘Red Ridge’, probably came about because there is a wide band of rust-red oolitic ironstone in the 60 m high rock face above the castle. Visit the historical, cultural feature set amid rock faces and an untouched natural landscape. The Rothenfluh ruins represent the only surviving remnants of a hillside castle in the Canton of Berne. These hillside castles, known in German as “Balmburgen”, were built under a rocky overhang. This historical site was built in the 13th century and was already referred to as a ruin in 1577. Wilderswil’s two ruins, Rothenfluh and Unspunnen, are connected by the Castle Path, which forms part of the Cultural Walks at the Entrance to the Lütschinen Valleys. Discover the remnants of the historic walls under the impressive rock ledge and immerse yourself in the past.
A 20-minute hike takes you from Wilderswil to the imposing Rothenfluh ruins. The name Rothenfluh, which means ‘Red Ridge’, probably came about because there is a wide band of rust-red oolitic ironstone in the 60 m high rock face above the castle. Visit the historical, cultural feature set amid rock faces and an untouched natural landscape. The Rothenfluh ruins represent the only surviving remnants of a hillside castle in the Canton of Berne. These hillside castles, known in German as “Balmburgen”, were built under a rocky overhang. This historical site was built in the 13th century and was already referred to as a ruin in 1577. Wilderswil’s two ruins, Rothenfluh and Unspunnen, are connected by the Castle Path, which forms part of the Cultural Walks at the Entrance to the Lütschinen Valleys. Discover the remnants of the historic walls under the impressive rock ledge and immerse yourself in the past.
Your highlights at a glance
- Take a 20-minute hike and visit the hidden Rothenfluh ruins
- Impressive 13th century monument
- Spectacular location beneath a rock ledge
- Only surviving remnants of a hillside castle in the Canton of Berne
- The Castle Path connects the two ruins of Unspunnen and Rothenfluh in Wilderswil
To ensure that your trip is perfect in every way, please note
- Accessible from spring to autumn
- Closed in winter due to risk of falling ice and rock
- Pick up a copy of the brochure on the Castle Path and find out more at the Wilderswil tourism information office
