Through the Magglingenmatten

Even though we had done variations of this hike several times, we had the urge to go back, especially since stratus was forecast to be persistent. Even though we were above the stratus layer, we also had the urge to change the area a bit and go on a hike. So, we decided to cross the Magglingenmatten and go down through the Twannbachschlucht. We knew, however, that we would not be able to go down the usual path, as it is closed out of season. But there are several paths that allow you to go down to Twann.

We took public transport to Macolin. When we arrived at the top station of the funicular, we followed the marked trail to the Ende der Welt. We have so many memories of this place, as we often went to Macolin for athletics training camps. In the meantime, the track has been completely renovated, and it is a pleasure to see it in this condition.

From the Ende der Welt, we went up to the Hohmatt to have a coffee. We also knew this place from our younger days, as we often went there for a dessert. The place has not changed, but it is a shame to hear that the establishment is probably going to close.

After the Hohmatt, we went up a little further to reach the Waldhütte, which is also run by the Haute Ecole de Sports. We celebrated a few events there. Further on, the path becomes much flatter and, as you leave the forest, it gently descends towards Lamboing. It was in the descent that we were disappointed to see that the top of the stratus was now much higher than forecast. Nevertheless, we continued down towards the small valley of the Twannbach.

When we reached Les Moulins, we continued along the gorge path for a while before taking the forest road that goes over the gorge. This way, we avoided the part of the gorge that is supposed to be closed. Further on, we left the marked trail and took an agricultural path that goes down very steeply over the vineyards. This way, we avoided a large detour along the marked trails. After a short, steep descent, we arrived at the Twann station.

Route: Macolin (funicular) – La Fin du Monde – Hohmatt – Les Prés de Macolin – Twannbachschlucht – Douanne
Distance: 12.5km
Elevation gain: 260m positive / 700m negative
Duration: 3h30