Map
Elevation Profile
Useful Links
Short Description
The “Bergmanndlipfad Giswil” hike revolves around two things: First, and quite literally, around Gilswilerstock Mountain. Second, around the mythical creatures “Bergmanndli” (“Little Mountain Dudes”), which according to local folklore lived in these mountains and knew the secret to making mirrors (a bit random, granted).
If interested, the local tourist information booth near the start of the tour has more information on the gnome-lookalikes and the small rush for mirror-making minerals in the middle ages.
If not interested, you still get a nice medium length hike following interesting paths and offering great views, as well as a chance to see wildlife like chamois or eagles.
Impressions
We did this hike in a small group of friends. The goal was to get as high up as possible without snow at this time of year. Turns out this trail was right on the limit (a small, easily manageable snow field remained on the trail).
During the ascent, we enjoyed views of Lake Sarnen and the Sarnen valley every time we took a look back.
From (close to the) the ridge, we got treated to a panorama of the Bernese Alps as a reward for the ascent.
We didn’t see any Bergmanndli or eagles, but it was a Saturday and slightly busy, so they were probably hiding.
We enjoyed our hike and would recommend it to others.
Would you like to share your own experiences with this hike? Do you have any questions? Something to add? Feel free to leave a comment below 🙂
Route Report / Gallery
Full size images without watermarks are available for licensing to interested parties. Check romans.pictures for a selection of my favorites, or contact me for details.
View (back) during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View of Sarnen, Sarnersee, and Giswil during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View along the ridge. 
View along the ridge. View along the ridge. 
View (back) along the ridge. 
View along the ridge. View along the ridge. 
View during the descent. 
Cows, unfortunately without horns and with bells. 
View during the descent. 
View during the descent. 
View during the descent. 
View (back) during the descent.
NEWSLETTER
Don’t miss a hike 🙂
Basic Data
| Date of Hike: | 2020-05-22 |
| Participants: | Roman, Jenny, Hank, Betsy, Gil |
| Technical Difficulty: | T2: Mountain Trail |
Stats
| Km | 14 |
| Net Hours (Est.) | 5 |
| Net Hours (Act.) | 4 |
| Ascent (m) | 950 |
| Descent (m) | 950 |
| Max. Alt. (m) | 1950 |
| Loop? | Yes |
| Cable Car? | No |