Accessible Tour: through the sea of flowers of the Merian Gardens

The Merian Gardens are a real must-see for all flower lovers and invite you to a varied, nature-close exploration. The extensive area is divided into two garden sections, which are connected by a short but challenging slope of about 7–8 %.

The southern part welcomes you with open green spaces, old fruit trees, and quiet paths. If you keep left after the entrance, signs point to the Rhododendron Valley. Access to it is via a narrow, uneven path made of wood chips, which is recommended for wheelchair users only with assistance. The small circular route through the valley is like a retreat – shielded from the outside world, characterized by silence and nature. For the return trip, it is important to take the same path back to the plain, as the direct crossing from the Rhododendron Valley to the Iris restaurant is not accessible.

Past historic agricultural buildings – here there is also an accessible toilet – the path leads over old, rough cobblestones to the slope, which leads up to the northern garden section. At the top by Villa Merian, the second section of this tour begins.

From here, a route on the left over well-compacted gravel paths offered, running along species-rich dry meadows and a small stream to the old barn. The right path is asphalted and easier to navigate but offers somewhat less scenic variety.

In the converted barn is the Iris restaurant – a cozy place for a break, whether for a big or small hunger. An accessible toilet is located right next door in the barn passage.

The northern part of the Merian Gardens is characterized by a variety of magnificent flower beds. The wide main paths are well paved but have slopes in places. The narrower paths are not suitable for wheelchair users as they either end in dead ends or include steps.

At the end of the tour, you can conveniently switch to public transport at the St. Jakobshalle – or return to the starting point along the Birs. If you want to extend your outing a bit, the tour through the Merian Gardens can ideally be combined with the route through the Park im Grünen.