Tradition and Customs The tried and true stands the test of time
Bönigen and Iseltwald have lovingly preserved their traditions. As you stroll through the narrow alleyways of the villages, you'll notice charming little details: a unique flower arrangement here, a witty saying there, or intricate woodcarvings on a housefront. Curious to learn more about the houses in Bönigen and the stories of their residents? Or would you rather take a scenic drive up to an alpine pasture and watch a cheesemaker at work? With us, both are possible!
Bönigen Village Tour
Discover fascinating facts about Bönigen’s historic houses and long-standing customs from the 16th to 18th centuries on a guided village tour. The richly decorated buildings showcase the artistry of the woodcarvers of the time. One highlight is the Housihuus from 1757 – Bönigen’s first inn, where King Friedrich of Württemberg stayed in 1808. The village tour is free of charge and no registration is required.
You can find the current tour dates here:
Prefer to explore on your own? Take an informative walk with our SmartTrail. All you need is your smartphone! Simply scan the QR code or visit the SmartTrail homepage to begin. You’ll be guided from post to post, and as soon as you reach each location, the content will appear automatically on your screen.
Alternatively, you can pick up a map with detailed descriptions of the houses at the tourist office or download and print it out here:
Flyer Historic Houses Trail German English
Flyer Historic Houses Trail German French
Alpine visits to Bättenalp
Unfortunately, the alpine access road is currently closed indefinitely due to the risk of falling rocks. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be published on the website of the municipality of Iseltwald.
Join us on a guided visit to the Bättenalp above Iseltwald and experience traditional alpine life up close. Watch the dairyman make cheese the old-fashioned way: the milk is heated over a wood fire in a large copper kettle and the curds are lifted out using cheesecloth. You’ll also visit the barn with the cows and enjoy a hearty platter of homemade products – accompanied by a refreshing drink. A truly authentic taste of alpine tradition!
As parking at the top is only permitted with a special licence and the hike up takes around three hours, this is a unique opportunity to explore Harzisboden. After the tour, you are welcome to continue your hike through the breathtaking landscape – for example, towards the Faulhorn.
Due to the current situation, no alpine visits are planned at the moment. We will be happy to inform you as soon as new dates become available.
