Simmental house way, Cultural hiking trail in Simmental valley, Switzerland.
The Simmental house way is a hiking trail through the Bernese Oberland featuring traditional wooden homes with painted facades and carved architectural details along the entire route. The path connects Wimmis and Boltigen using low-traffic asphalt sections and nature trails.
The trail features residential buildings dating partly to the 15th century, with the Simmental cattle breeding economy from the 17th to 18th centuries shaping local construction. This prosperous period encouraged more elaborate and decorated house designs throughout the valley.
The houses along the route display regional building crafts with painted facades and carved details that visitors can see today. These styles show how local people worked with their environment and farming traditions.
The marked route is easy to follow and suitable for most walkers with gentle to rolling terrain throughout. Information materials about the houses and building methods are available at local tourist offices to enhance your visit.
Many house roofs are covered with Schwaar stones, a special slate technique unique to this Alpine region. These heavy stones last for centuries and give the Simmental buildings their characteristic appearance.
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