Oberaargau: Nature and Regional Center

"The versatile center in the Bernese Oberaargau, the small town in the heart of the Swiss Midlands" is how the city describes itself on its website. Langenthal was first mentioned in a document in 861. At the starting point of the hike, Langenthal station, follow the signpost to Kaltenherberg. Over a bridge crossing Aarwangen street, then past two roundabouts, you reach the Langete by the football field. Now follows a relaxing and romantic section along the naturally flowing Langete. In a winding course, the route leads through the district of Kaltenherberg. Now follow the signpost to Mumenthalerweiher. Under the cantonal road and railway line to Roggwil and then over the Olten-Langenthal railway and the new Mattstetten-Rothrist line, you walk along the Brunnmatte, which was renatured in connection with the railway construction. At the forest entrance by the Mumenthalerweiher signpost, turn left toward Aarwangen. After a short ascent, you reach a hiking path junction at Buechwald. Here continue towards Aarwangen Castle. The route now winds many curves to the Aarwangen-Wynau road and down to the Aare. The hike first follows the forest edge, then near the Aare, and finally over a residential street to the destination, the Aarwangen Castle stop. The castle was built in the 13th century to secure the river crossing. It housed the regional court until 2012. Since then, attempts have failed to find a new use for the vacant historic building.