When I read that this trail was “baby carriage accessible,” I had my doubts. In such a hilly area? All 8 miles of it? But from start to finish, it was accessible, for baby carriage, or walkers, or even motorized wheelchairs. The whole family could be out there enjoying this wonderful experience. Hence, I am inspired to get the word out on this trail.

But the hills? Well, if walking up to the start from the Biel train station (which will add an extra couple of kilometers), that first hill is steep. But, if you take the bus to, or park at, the top of this first hill, you not only eliminate that challenge, but also begin with a beautiful view of Lake Biel down below. Thus inspired, the final 35 yards of slight incline to the starting marker is easy. Not only that, the start is along a lovely shaded path, which although not tarmacked, is smooth, hard-packed earthen surface. Subsequent inclines are quite gentle.

 

After wandering along this trail for a bit over a kilometer, the trail leaves the quiet wood, and enters the vineyards. From this point on, the trail is tarmac or cement surface. It undulates, sometimes gently upward, sometimes a bit downward, through the vines. Above Tuescherz is a lovely play area for children, a picnic table for those wanting to dine al fresco, and a couple of benches, (the first of several benches along the trail), all overlooking the village and lake.

 

Continuing above the village, the trail enters another shaded section, as it approaches Twann. At this point, looking down onto the compact, neat-as-a-pin village with traditional homes, you are almost half way (6 kilometers) along the trail. This is where the flexibility of the trail comes in: it is easy enough to follow the signs into the village center, and take the train back to Biel.

 

Or, you can continue to the southern edge of the village, and come to a stunning gorge, the Twannbachschlucht, and visit it (for a small fee). (To continue on the trail, walk over the gorge bridge, easily accessible to all. But to actually enter the gorge itself, access is not as easy.)

 

Shortly before dropping down into the village of Ligerz, an old pilgrimage church provides more great views of the lake, and views of the Alps which now appear amazingly close. Many hikers availed themselves of the benches, conveniently snuggled up against the lake-side of the church, to enjoy a bit of shady repose while contemplating the awe-inspiring scenery, or a quick lunch, before continuing southward.

 

One more awesome view of the Alps before continuing downhill  into the village center. This village center, in addition to a train station, has a funicular station, which transports passengers high above the village, to the top of the ridge behind it. It also has a small museum dedicated to the history and practices of viticulture and viticulture in this area.

 

Taking Chemin de la Roche Au Cros out of the village, the trail remains in vineyards, and passes a couple of wineries. More importantly, it remains on tarmacked surface to and through the small town of La Neuveville.

 

This small town was an unexpected gem. It was once a walled town, and several towers from the earlier fortifications still remain. In fact, the trail passes through the portal of the “Red Tower”. The main pedestrian zone in the old town center is meticulously maintained, and the houses, all in pristine condition, date back centuries. Several have wine shops or taverns on the ground floor.

 

Whether you stop for some local wine at one of the old town taverns, or pass under the train tracks to the waterfront where the kids can enjoy the waterfront playground, or the beach (500 yards further south), La Neuveville will be an enjoyable town to visit. Heading back to Biel, either by train, or ferry, will be an easy and relaxing experience, and a great way to end this trail!