Through the floodplain landscape at the Old Aare

Aarberg naturally owes its name to the Aare. The river flowed around the town situated on a rocky spur and brought it prosperity thanks to considerable customs revenue. But since the Jura water correction in the 19th century, the Aare has made a curve around the town. The 70 m long covered wooden bridge from the 16th century now only spans the arm of the Old Aare. Nonetheless, one of the most beautiful small-town views in Switzerland remains. Particularly worth seeing are the Gasthof Krone, the town hall from 1817, the Amthaus (around 1600), and the church with a sandstone tower from 1526. From Aarberg station past the town center to the Old Aare area (start of the nature reserve). Between Aarberg and Lyss, there are marked hiking trails on both sides of the quietly flowing water. The suggested route follows the eastern bank of the Old Aare. Along a beautiful pond — the former clarifier basin for the beet washing water of the Aarberg sugar factory in Grien — you reach the floodplain forest. The wilderness in the remaining untouched areas of the Old Aare is extraordinary: dense bushes, small pine forest sections, interesting flora, aquatic insects, beaver lodges, and a rich birdlife delight the hikers. Near the Kappelen Bridge, the peace ends: noise from roads and the go-kart track noticeably overlays the nature experience. A nicely laid out promenade leads to the outskirts of Lyss. Once again, the floodplain landscape enchants.