Schangnau lies in the uppermost part of the Emmental. Striking mountain ranges encircle the pre-Alpine landscape of Schangnau with Bumbach and Kemmeriboden: the Hohgant – also known as the crown of Emmental – is the most impressive local summit, and at 2196 metres, also the highest.

Many of the inhabitants are still involved in agricultural and dairy farming and associated businesses. Schangnau’s first road linking it to Eggiwil was built in 1878 and the road over the Schallenberg added in 1900.

Those seeking, peace, nature and fresh air will find it in the surroundings of Schangnau. Hiking trails lead through an area with varied fauna and flora, ornate farmhouses and old trades such as wainwrights and shingle makers. Traditional inns make inviting places to stop – perhaps to enjoy a famous meringue. Various barbecue spots are also ideal for taking a break.

Three skilfts and a nursery lift access well-prepared ski and snowboard runs at Bumbach at the foot of Hohgant. Cross-country skiers and ski trekkers have a 10km-long trail alongside the River Emme. The ski area at Marbachegg in Canton Lucerne in also close.

One speciality of Schangnauer farming is the water buffalo. Several farmers have buffalo herds here and these can be seen by appointment. Buffalo milk is very rich, containing about double the amount of protein and fat content of cows’ milk and the meat has around half the cholesterol content of beef. Buffalo milk and meat is sold in Schangnau without the need for long transport distances. The dairy produces buffalo-milk mozzarella and buffalo dishes are served in the Gasthof zum Löwen.

Kemmeriboden lies between Hohgant and Schrattenfluh. Today, the Kemmeriboden-Bad is a smart country inn with a long tradition: the mineral spring has been used for over 200 years, although heath treatments stopped many decades ago.

Schangnau and Kemmeriboden are departure points for extensive hikes e.g. to Hohgant, Habkern, Eriz, Marbachegg or even up the Brienzer Rothorn. Schallenberg in the direction of Steffisburg and Thun is very popular with cyclists and motorbike riders. Further attractions in the region are canyoning through the narrow Räblochschlucht gorge and night-time stargazing in the observatory.

Highlights

• Räbloch – a spectacular narrow gorge on the River Emme between Schangnau and Eggiwil; only about a metre wide in places.
• Kemmeriboden-Bad – traditional country tavern in the wild, romantic region where the Emme has its source, departure point for many hikes.
• Schallenberg – low but long pass linking the Emmental with the Bernese Oberland (Steffisburg/Thun).