Two Simmen – a hike

Oeschseite is a settlement between Zweisimmen and Saanen, which has its own train station (stop on request). From the station, follow the signpost for the Simme Valley path towards Saanenmöser. Soon the path leads downwards into the valley floor and immediately after the Hängelibruck turns right to the Kleine Simme. Over roots and stones, the path runs close to the stream. It rushes and bubbles, to the delight of both hikers and fish alike. Rock barriers, water basins, and deadwood ensure that the brook trout feel comfortable in the Kleine Simme. After about two kilometers, you cross the stream via a footbridge; now the trail leads quietly past a campfire site, a rope park, and the outdoor swimming pool to Zweisimmen. A stop in the village at Rinderberg is worthwhile. Refreshed, the hike can be continued after passing under the train station. Following the tracks to the left, you meet the Kleine Simme again and accompany it on its last meters across the valley floor. Below the airfield, the Kleine Simme disappears from the map, swallowed by its larger sister, who from there flows rather straightened through the open Simmental. Somewhat away from the water, the hiking trail leads to Grubenwald. While the Simme plunges over the Laubegg fall, the path bypasses the Laubegg hill on the west side. After crossing a bridge at Garstatt, from Weissenbach to Reidenbach you take a longer flat stretch on partly asphalted roads. The final stage along the Simme from Schintibrügg to Boltigen is wilder.

Background: The name «Zweisimmen» derives from «Two Simmen», referring to the confluence of the two Simmen streams. The Grosse Simme is the western source branch of the Simme, which springs at the Sibe Brünne and flows via Lenk to Zweisimmen. The source area of the Kleine Simme lies above Saanenmöser.