#Cross-Country Magic

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING – WINTER. OPEN SPACES. PEACE AND QUIET

Height, width, and perfect tracks

At Sunnbüel a snow-sure plateau at around 2,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by impressive peaks and an open, sunny mountain landscape. Peaceful, expansive, and ideal for both leisurely and athletic cross-country skiing. The high-altitude trails lead through an impressive panorama across the Spittelmatte and adjacent plains. Well-groomed tracks for classic and skating styles offer varied loop courses, complemented by a practice area—perfect for beginners, leisure skiers, and ambitious athletes. Cross-country skiing with dogs (skijoring) is also possible on selected sections.

Get to know

TheSunnbüel cable car Sunnbüel youSunnbüel the trailhead in just a few minutes. Whether you’re alone, with friends, or with your four-legged friend, the focus here is on the experience—not the distance.

INFO BOX

Cross-country skiing information Sunnbüel: Spittermatte Trail (difficult): 900 m long, 58 m elevation gain / Spittermatte Trail (moderate): 4.5 km long, 100 m elevation gain / Mittelbach Trail (easy): 2 km long, 30 m elevation gain / Wintertäli (easy): 300 m loop, 5 m elevation gain. Changing room (container) at the Spittelmatten Trail

Spittelmatte Cross-Country Trail: ‘CLOSED’ End of Season
Access trail: ‘CLOSED’
Mittelbach Cross-Country Trail: ‘CLOSED’
‘Wintertäli’ Cross-Country Skiing Practice Trail: ‘CLOSED’

Weather today: 11°C Mostly sunny Mostly sunny
Weather tomorrow: 8°C with rain showers rain shower

Key Facts

  • Use of the cross-country trails is permitted only with a Swiss Cross-Country Ski Pass, a Kandersteg Regional Pass, or a day or week pass.
  • Day tickets are available at the ticket office at the valley station.
  • Buy cross-country ski passes or season passes online or on-site.
  • Changing rooms, lockers, and showers are available at the mountain station.
  • From the mountain station, you can reach the cross-country ski trail in about 10–15 minutes via the winter hiking trail.
  • 100% natural snow and daily trail grooming.
  • For endurance runners and leisure runners—whether alone, in a group, or with a dog.
  • For more information, visit Cross-Country Skiing in Kandersteg.

The trails at a glance

  • Access Trails The two access trails lead from the mountain station to the high-altitude trails on Spittelmatte. They provide access to a diverse cross-country skiing area.
  • Spittelmatte Cross-Country Trail The classic trail in Sunnbüel: open, sunny, and scenic. The route winds through stands of Swiss stone pine, along streams, and across the wide, open plain of Spittelmatte.
  • Schwarzbach Cross-Country Trail A particularly scenic trail through peaceful natural surroundings. Ideal for anyone who wants to combine cross-country skiing with a chance to enjoy nature.
  • Mittelbach Trail: A scenic loop that blends seamlessly into the landscape, with a leisurely return trip.
  • Practice Area & Wintertäli The practice area is easily accessible and ideal for beginners.

Spittelmatte cross-country skiing chalet

Off to a great start: The mountainous landscape of the Sunnbüel high-altitude cross-country trail Sunnbüel Kandersteg, Bern, provides a magnificent setting for a cross-country skiing experience.

  • There is a small cross-country skiing chalet available at the starting point of the high-altitude trails.
  • It is used primarily as a changing room.
  • It offers shelter and seating—perfect for a break between rounds.
  • The cross-country skiing chalet is also equipped with a restroom.
  • At the mountain station, you'll also find a changing room, lockers, and showers.

     

Safe on the road.

GUIDELINES
  • Consideration: Be mindful of less experienced individuals and do not endanger anyone.
  • Signaling and running direction: Observe the signals and instructions. Always run in the specified direction.
  • Choosing which lane to use: Get on and off cleanly to protect the lane. Keep to the right. On double or multiple lanes, the slower vehicle should drive on the right.
  • Overtaking: When overtaking on single lanes, do so on the left side of the lane. On double lanes, use the left lane for overtaking.
  • Oncoming traffic: In the event of oncoming traffic (runners in the same lane), move to the right.
  • Poles: Keepyour poles close to your body when overtaking, being overtaken, and crossing paths with others to avoid endangering anyone.
  • Speed: Adjust your speed on downhill slopes to suit the terrain, visibility, and your ability.
  • Keep the running track clear: Take a breather and chat away from the running track. If you fall, move to safety away from the track.
  • Assistance: In the event of an accident on the running track, you are obliged to provide assistance.
  • Waste: Do not leave any waste on the trail or in the terrain.

LEARN MORE

Arrive, feel nature.

Sports stores / Equipment rentals

For winter hikes, snowshoe tours, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and snowboarding.

The right gear for a perfect day of adventure on the Sunnbüel. The rental shops in Kandersteg offer high-quality equipment so you can explore the snow-covered Alpine landscape safely and comfortably. Get fully equipped for your winter adventure in the Bernese Oberland.

Specialist in alpine skiing, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing

(Alpine, Bikes) Äussere Dorfstrasse 83, 3718 Kandersteg
(Cross-country skiing) Bahnhofstrasse 15, 3718 Kandersteg

Ski and clothing specialist

Rental equipment including skis, ski boots, snowboards, and snowboard boots.

  • Address: Äussere Dorfstrasse 31, 3718 Kandersteg
  • Phone: +41 33 675 16 09 
 

Mountain Peace

FAQ

What you should know.

Sunnbüel Directions & Parking

How do I get there by public transportation (train, bus)?

You can reach Kandersteg by train from Spiez and Brig. From Adelboden and Frutigen, the AFA bus runs to Kandersteg. From the Kandersteg train station, the AFA Line 241 takes you directly to the Sunnbüel valley station. The bus schedules are coordinated with train arrivals. For more information, check the SBB app or the timetable.

How do you get from the Kandersteg train station to the Sunnbüel valley station?

You Sunnbüel easily Sunnbüel the Sunnbüel valley station in just about 10 minutes by taking the AFA bus on line 241. If you prefer to explore the area on foot, it takes about 30 minutes to walk from the train station to the valley station—just follow the signs forSunnbüel.”

Where are the nearest campgrounds?

In Kandersteg, you'll find a centrally located campground with good facilities and excellent public transportation connections: Camping Kandersteg. Other options include the Frutig Resort campground or Camping Grassi.

Where can coaches and tour buses park?

Designated parking spaces for tour buses and coaches are available at the Sunnbüel valley station Sunnbüel Kandersteg. We recommend making a reservation in advance at info@sunnbuel.ch.

Are there charging stations for electric cars?

Yes, Sunnbüel four 11-kW charging stations for electric vehicles available at the Sunnbüel valley station.

How long does the cable car ride take?

The cable car ride cable car the Sunnbüel lower station Sunnbüel Kandersteg to the Sunnbüel upper station Sunnbüel about eight minutes and comfortably takes you up to an altitude of 1,936 meters.

Where can you Sunnbüel at the Sunnbüel valley station?

There are several paid parking spaces available right next to the Sunnbüel valley station Sunnbüel Kandersteg. Payment can be made either in cash or conveniently via an app. Please note that it is not possible to reserve a parking space.

Are seasonal or annual parking spaces available?

Only season passes are available—CHF 40 for the winter and CHF 60 for the summer. They can be purchased at the base station.

Where are there pitches for motorhomes?

RV parking spaces are available in the village of Kandersteg. Due to construction work, Sunnbüel currently no parking spaces available directly at the Sunnbüel valley station. Alternatively, there are camping options in Kandersteg or Frutigen, such as Camping Rendez-Vous Kandersteg, Frutigresort Camping, or Camping Grassi.

How do I get there by car?

The Sunnbüel valley station Sunnbüel outside the village. From Spiez or the car ferry, follow the signs for Sunnbüel Gemmi to the valley station, where paid parking is available.


Sunnbüel Tickets & Access

Is the MagicPass or the AlpsPass valid?

No, neither the MagicPass nor the AlpsPass arecable car on the Sunnbüel cable car . Discounts are available exclusively with the SBB Half-Day Pass, the SBB GA Pass, and the Berner Oberland TALK Pass.

How do I make a group reservation?

FAQ – Group reservations

How do I make a group reservation?

Group reservations (Sunnbüel) are made using a group reservation tool —to ensure smooth planning and operations on site.

Is registration required?

Yes. You must register before making your first booking. Once you have successfully registered, you can make a booking.

Registration Group reservation

If you're traveling by public transportation, what should you keep in mind?

If you're traveling by train or bus, you have two options:

  • Directly through the group reservation tool: Enter the number of people and your estimated arrival time.
  • About SBB Group Services: For group tickets and seat reservations, please contact the SBB Contact Center:
    Phone: 0848 44 66 88

What happens if you arrive without a reservation?

Group reservations Oeschinensee required at Oeschinensee . Groups that have not registered in advance and do not have a valid time slot (boarding pass) will not be transported.

We therefore recommend that you make your reservation in advance.

Does the Oeschinensee Mountain Restaurant offer group packages?

The Oeschinensee Mountain Restaurant Oeschinensee customized packages and quotes for groups. For inquiries, please contact us directly at: oeschinensee.

Where can I find more information?

oeschinensee

Is there cable car for dogs on the cable car ?

Yes, dogs require a valid ticket and travel at the regular fare. A day pass for dogs costs CHF 8 per day, and an annual pass costs CHF 25. For more information, please see the fare section.

Are early or late trips possible outside of the schedule?

No. Rides outside the operating hours published on our website are generally not possible. TheSunnbüel cable car Sunnbüel exclusively according to the published schedule. The current schedule is available online at SBB at any time.

Up to what age do children travel free?

Children up to 5 years and 9 months old, as well as children with an SBB Junior Card, ride the cable car .

What are the opening hours of theSunnbüel cable car ?

The operating hours of cable car Sunnbüel cable car Sunnbüel depending on the season and weather conditions. You can find the current hours on our website at www.sunnbuel.ch.

Is a reservation required for the cable car Sunnbüel?

No reservation Sunnbüel required for cable car rides cable car Sunnbüel . However, we recommend that groups make a reservation in advance—as well as for transportation requests outside of regular operating hours.

How can I purchase annual and seasonal passes?

Annual and seasonal passes can be conveniently ordered online or directly at the base station and will then be mailed to you. To avoid waiting times, we recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance.

Can tickets for Sunnbüel be purchased Sunnbüel ?

Yes, tickets can be conveniently purchased in advance through the ticket shop. We ask groups to register and sign up in advance.

Which offers include discounts?

Take advantage of special discounts, including those offered by the SBB GA, the SBB Half-Fare Card, and the Berner Oberland TALK Guest Card.


Sunnbüel Restaurants and mountain huts in the area

Which SAC huts are there in the Sunnbüel area?

The following lodging options Sunnbüel available in the Sunnbüel region: the Winteregg SAC Hut (SAC Biel) and the Stockhüttli SAC Hut (SAC Seeland). The Lämmeren Hut is also located in the Gemmi area.

What dining options are available on Sunnbüel?

The Sunnbüel Mountain Restaurant Sunnbüel the Schwarenbach Mountain Hotel invite you to enjoy a meal and relax. Learn more about their dining options here.

What accommodation options are available in the Sunnbüel area?

The two SAC huts, Winteregg (SAC Biel) and Stockhüttli (SAC Seeland), Sunnbüel in Sunnbüel . The Berghotel Schwarenbach is situated along the Gemmi Trail. Further into the Gemmi region are the Lämmerenhütte and the Gemmi Lodge, located directly on the Gemmi Pass.


Sunnbüel Winter Adventures

Can you hike to Gemmi in the winter?

Yes, the winter hiking trail is open, and you can hike up to the Gemmi (mountain station, Gemmilodge) on foot (winter hiking boots recommended), on snowshoes, or on touring skis. The hike is approximately 9 km long, takes about 3.5 hours, and involves a 490-meter elevation gain. You can take the Gemmi Railway down to Leukerbad (VS). You can find the exact travel times in the SBB Mobile App or at www.sbb.ch.

What activities are available for children and families in the winter?

A variety of winter activities Sunnbüel you at Sunnbüel : a short sledding trail near the mountain station, as well as the popular “Godi & Kari in the Snow” winter hiking trail, featuring fun puzzles for the whole family. The offerings are complemented by easy winter and snowshoe trails. Enjoy the snow-covered landscape while playing in the snow or Sunnbüel yourself Sunnbüel at the Sunnbüel mountain restaurant. Not suitable for strollers; sleds can be rented at the mountain station.

Is cross-country skiing possible at Sunnbühel?

Yes, the cross-country trail on Sunnbühel is usually groomed for both skating and classic-style skiing. Whether you’re looking for a challenging workout or a leisurely outing—alone, with a partner, in a group, or with your dog. A changing room with restrooms is available, and there’s a practice area near the mountain station for beginners. You can reach the trails via the Gemmiweg (approx. 900 m) down to Spittelmatte.

Can you Sunnbüel in Sunnbüel ?

Sunnbüel two marked snowshoe loop trails available at Sunnbüel : The shortSunnbüeltrail is 2 km long, takes about 2 hours, and has an elevation gain of 220 meters. The longer “Spittelmatte” trail is 5 km long, takes about 2.5 hours, and has an elevation gain of 260 meters. Snowshoes can be rented at the valley station and reserved in advance.

What winter hikes are there on Sunnbüel?

Sunnbüel a variety of winter hiking trails: The child-friendly “Godi & Kari in the Snow” loop trail (1.8 km, approx. 45 min.) is ideal for families. The “Altelsblick” loop trail (4.3 km, approx. 1.5 hours, 200 meters of elevation gain) is perfect for leisurely winter hikes with scenic views. More challenging is the “Gemmiweg” to the Gemmi mountain station / Gemmi Lodge (approx. 3.5 hours, 9 km, 490 meters of elevation gain).

How long does the hike to Gemmipass take?

The hike from the Sunnbüel mountain station Sunnbüel about 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route, your fitness level, and weather conditions. The trail is approximately 8.5 km long and has an elevation gain of about 490 meters.

Can you rent Sunnbüel on Sunnbüel ?

Yes, sleds can be rented right at the mountain station. Sleds equipped with child seats are available specifically for children. You can find prices and operating hours online under " Rates."

What ski tours can you undertake Sunnbüel ?

The following ski tours are possible Sunnbüel : Schwarzhorn (2,789 m) – moderate, Rote Totz / Roter Totz (2,848 m) – moderate to challenging, Daubenhorn (2,942 m) – challenging, Lämmerenhütte / Lämmerental – moderate (also as a traverse tour) Wildstrubel (3,243 m) – challenging / high alpine, Rinderhorn (3,448 m) – challenging to very challenging, high alpine, Kleines Rinderhorn (3,003 m) – challenging. All tours head toward the Gemmi region and require safe conditions as well as complete avalanche equipment.



Sunnbüel Winter Outdoor Guidelines

What outdoor guidelines apply to snowshoeing?

When snowshoeing, you’ll be moving through wildlife habitats—please do not disturb the animals and stay on the marked trails. Wear appropriate, warm winter hiking boots and clothing. Also, always check the weather forecast, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.

What does the UNESCO World Heritage Charter say?

The municipalities located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the surrounding municipalities, have committed themselves in the Konkordiaplatz Charter to comply with all regulations that apply within the protected areas on municipal land. Our Outdoor Guidelines are based on these and other applicable regulations. Please observe the Outdoor Guidelines and their extensions to protect wildlife and nature.

What outdoor guidelines apply when providing first aid?

Please remain calm and, in case of an emergency, call emergency services at 1414. SOS rooms are available at both the mountain and valley stations. Additionally, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are located at both stations.

What outdoor guidelines apply to winter hikes in the Sunnbüel area?

Always stay on marked and open winter hiking trails and avoid taking shortcuts—this also applies to snowshoers. Before every hike, check the difficulty level, your equipment, and the current weather forecast, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.

Sunnbüel
NATURE. OPEN SPACE. PEACE