Bolligen-Geristein Castle ruin-Bantiger-Stettlen

Many paths lead from Bolligen to Stettlen - none are surely as instructive as this one. From the bus stop "Bolligen, Lutzeren" it goes along the little road upwards. After the first elevation meters, the signpost to Geristein Castle follows. A small detour worth making. The ruin stands above a quarry. Also clearly visible: the striking sandstone formation called the "Elephant". According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, the barons of Gerenstain established their ancestral seat here in the 12th century. The shine of times past can only be guessed at.  Helpful in this is the panel installed by the Bolligen municipal council. Back on the hiking trail, we follow the signpost further uphill to Bantiger. From Bantiger, it goes back down the climbed elevation meters to the RBS Stettlen station.  If the weather is right, always with a view of the Bernese Alps.