From castle to castle

The hike runs along the banks of the Emme River. Leisurely hikers will find plenty to enjoy here. Whether the tour starts at Landshut Castle or Burgdorf Castle makes little difference. I start at Landshut Castle in Utzenstorf. This is the last intact moated castle in the canton of Bern. Numerous waterways flow through the park surrounding the castle. The castle houses historic rooms, furniture, and paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries, as well as the Swiss Museum of Game and Hunting, which is the only hunting museum in Switzerland. Landshut Castle stands on a sandstone cliff in the former floodplain of the Emme River and has been owned by the private Landshut Castle Foundation since 1988. The park surrounding the castle invites you to linger, and it's worth stopping on one of the many park benches to enjoy the special atmosphere surrounding the castle. The first signpost pointing towards Burgdorf is located in the castle park. The entire hike is well-signposted, and anyone following the Emme River can't miss the trail. From Landshut Castle, the trail leads directly to the Emme River. From there, I walk along the riverbank to Kirchberg. There's a train station in Alchenflüh. Those who want to shorten the hike can either end it here or start it. Those who would like to enjoy the entire hike can continue from here toward Burgdorf. The destination is in sight from afar. Burgdorf Castle sits enthroned on a hill above the town, making it almost impossible for hikers to miss their destination. The final few meters—away from the Emme River and up to the castle—are the most arduous. This is the only time on this tour that hikers gain significant elevation. But it's worth it: the view from the castle over the town of Burgdorf is impressive, and the historic buildings are very well preserved. The 800-year-old castle is the town's landmark and is listed as a monument of national importance. And most importantly, for hungry hikers: Burdorf Castle has its own restaurant. Anyone who's made it this far definitely deserves a bite to eat.