From Zurich/Lucerne: Berne Capital and Countryside Day-Trip

Spend a day immersed in the captivating blend of Bern’s historic charm and the stunning natural landscapes of the Swiss countryside. This tour from Zurich or Lucerne offers a captivating journey through the picturesque Entlebuch and Emmental valleys, where you’ll witness the region’s traditional cheesemaking and sample local culinary delights. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Bern, admire the Gothic architecture, and visit the iconic Bärengraben. With insights into the local culture and a chance to indulge in the renowned Kambly biscuits, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Switzerland’s countryside and capital.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Zurich or Lucerne exploring Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and the picturesque Entlebuch and Emmental countryside.
• Scenic drive through the valleys showcasing the region’s natural landscapes, including historic farms and traditional cheesemaking.
• Visit to the Kambly biscuit factory for an insider’s look at production and a chance to sample their famous biscuits.
• Tour of the Emmentaler show dairy to observe the cheesemaking process and taste the distinct Emmentaler cheese.
• Roundtrip transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and a goodie bag filled with local products included.

Tour Overview

This 9.5-10.5 hour day trip from Zurich or Lucerne takes visitors on a small group tour with a professional multilingual guide through the scenic Entlebuch and Emmental valleys to the historic city of Bern and the renowned Emmental region.

Travelers will explore Bern’s charming Old Town, including the impressive Cathedral and iconic Clock Tower.

The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Kambly biscuit factory for a tasting, as well as a tour of the Emmentaler show dairy where visitors can sample the region’s famous cheese.

Roundtrip transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and a goodie bag filled with local products are included, making this an all-inclusive experience.

Scenic Drive Highlights

Winding through the picturesque Entlebuch and Emmental valleys, the scenic drive showcases the region’s stunning natural landscapes, from rolling hills and verdant meadows to quaint villages nestled among towering peaks.

Travelers can admire the sweeping vistas of the Emmental hills, dotted with charming timber-framed houses.

Tranquil streams and rivers that meander through the lush countryside.

Centuries-old farms and dairies, where traditional cheesemaking techniques are still practiced.

Charming covered bridges that span the valley, adding to the region’s timeless character.

Towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland, providing a dramatic backdrop to the scenic journey.

This leisurely drive offers a glimpse into the heart of Switzerland’s pastoral beauty.

Exploring Bern’s Old Town

Stepping into Bern’s Old Town, visitors are greeted by a UNESCO-listed historic center that exudes an air of timeless charm. Characterized by its well-preserved medieval architecture, the Old Town invites travelers to stroll along the arcaded streets and admire the iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time. Towering over the city, the Bern Minster Cathedral showcases the region’s impressive Gothic architecture, while the Zytglogge, an ornate medieval clock tower, enchants with its intricate mechanisms and elaborate figurines. From the picturesque Kramgasse to the charming Matte neighborhood, each corner of Bern’s Old Town offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant cultural heritage.

Landmark	Description	Significance
Bern Minster Cathedral	Impressive Gothic architecture	Iconic landmark of Bern’s skyline
Zytglogge Clock Tower	Ornate medieval clock with figurines	Enchanting example of Swiss timekeeping
Kramgasse	Picturesque arcaded street	Quintessential Old Town charm
Matte Neighborhood	Charming riverside district	Vibrant hub of local culture
Bärengraben	Bear pits housing Bern’s famous bears	Symbolic representation of the city

Kambly Biscuit Experience

The Kambly Experience invites travelers to indulge in the art of Swiss biscuit-making, offering a delightful glimpse into the brand’s rich heritage and time-honored traditions.

Visitors are welcomed to the Kambly factory where they can:

• Witness the intricate process of biscuit production, from mixing the dough to shaping and baking the delicate treats
• Sample an array of Kambly’s famous biscuits, each with its own unique flavor and texture
• Learn about the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability
• Explore the on-site showroom showcasing the company’s storied history and impressive product range

Bring home a selection of Kambly’s finest biscuits as a memento of this delectable experience.

Emmentaler Show Dairy Tour

Visitors to the Emmentaler show dairy are treated to an immersive exploration of Switzerland’s iconic Emmentaler cheese-making tradition. They witness the skilled cheesemakers meticulously crafting the famous wheels of Emmentaler, a process that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Experience	Description
Tour	Guests embark on a guided tour, walking through the production facilities and observing the intricate steps involved in creating Emmentaler.
Tasting	At the end of the tour, visitors enjoy a tasting of the cheese, savoring its distinct nutty flavor and firm, yet creamy texture.
Learning	The tour provides insights into the history, traditions, and regulations governing Emmentaler production, fostering a deeper appreciation for this Swiss culinary treasure.

Included and Excluded Items

The day trip includes a guided tour and transportation, a walking tour of Bern’s Old Town, a tasting at the Kambly Experience biscuit factory, and a tour of the Emmentaler show dairy with a cheese tasting. However, lunch, beverages, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour offers a variety of inclusions:

• Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned minibus
• Bern Old Town walking tour
• Kambly Experience tasting
• Emmentaler show dairy tour and cheese tasting
• Goodie bag with local products

Plus, the tour’s operations are carbon-balanced, certified by myclimate, ensuring an eco-friendly experience.

Tour Availability and Pricing

This day trip is likely to sell out, priced at $249.01 per person. Visitors can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users.

The tour’s availability and pricing are as follows:

Feature	Detail
Duration	9.5-10.5 hours
Group Size	Small group
Certification	Carbon-balanced by myclimate

Ultimately, this Bern and Emmental countryside experience offers a compelling opportunity for travelers seeking a well-organized, guided day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

While the tour is likely to sell out, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for certain travelers. Specifically, the day trip isn’t recommended for children under 6 or wheelchair users.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This allows for easy adjustments to travel plans.

The tour’s operations are carbon-balanced, certified by myclimate, demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Only Offered in English?

The tour is offered with multilingual guides, so travelers can enjoy the experience in various languages, including English. The guide will provide informative commentary throughout the day trip in the language of the participants.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour’s recommended attire is casual and comfortable. Dress in layers, as the weather can be variable, and wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for the walking tour of Bern’s historic Old Town.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though a complimentary goodie bag with local products is provided. Lunch is not included, so packing a meal can be a convenient option.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but the 9.5-10.5 hour itinerary provides ample time to explore Bern’s Old Town and the Emmental region. Guests can request customizations for their tour when booking.

Can We Visit Any Additional Sites Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is fairly comprehensive, but customers may inquire about potential add-ons or modifications, such as visiting additional historical sites, local artisanal shops, or scenic viewpoints in the Emmental region, depending on tour availability and guest preferences.

Recap

This captivating day trip from Zurich or Lucerne offers the perfect blend of stunning countryside and the historic charm of Bern’s Old Town.

Visitors will witness the region’s natural wonders, explore the UNESCO-listed center, and gain insights into local culinary traditions at the Kambly biscuit factory and Emmentaler show dairy.

It’s an immersive experience that showcases the best of Switzerland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.