It was one of those days when I craved an escape—somewhere peaceful, off the beaten path, where I could breathe deeply, recharge, and let nature work its magic. That’s exactly what I found in Berschis, a charming little village near Walenstadt in Eastern Switzerland, where a hidden gem of a hike awaited me. This circular trail would lead me to the breathtaking Berschnerfall, a stunning waterfall in Switzerland, the mystical St. Georg’s Chapel perched high on a rocky outcrop, and the serene Lourdes Grotto.
Far from the usual tourist crowds, this hike felt like stepping into another world. The sound of rushing water, the whispering trees, and the sheer energy of these powerful places made it impossible not to feel recharged. And the best part? It’s just a short trip from the city, making it a perfect escape if you’re looking for a waterfall near Zurich that’s both awe-inspiring and refreshingly uncrowded.
If you’re ready to discover a hike filled with natural beauty, history, and a touch of mysticism, lace up your boots—this adventure is calling!
Into the Wild: The Berschis Waterfall
Starting from the village center, the trail first leads through the narrow streets of Berschis before crossing a bridge over the Berschnerbach stream. From here, a natural path winds its way through a small ravine, closely following the stream.
Despite the slippery terrain from the previous day’s rain, the allure of the waterfall kept me pressing forward.
After approximately 20-25 minutes of moderate climbing, I arrived at the majestic Berschis Waterfall, a 46-meter-high cascade of raw power and beauty. The roar of the water echoed through the ravine, and the mist from the fall added an ethereal touch to the experience.
From the bridge, albeit a bit slippery, I captured some stunning photos and took a moment to absorb the natural wonder before continuing up the forest path toward St. Georg’s Chapel.
Pro tip: Visit the waterfall in spring during the snowmelt or after heavy rain for the most spectacular view.
The Mystical St. Georg’s Chapel
Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the village, St. Georg’s Chapel (locally known as Sant Jöüri) is the oldest Romanesque chapel in Eastern Switzerland. It’s also the only preserved example of a two-aisled vaulted structure in the country.
Local lore speaks of this site as a place of spiritual energy, measuring a remarkable 18,500 Bovis units. Whether you believe in such mystical energies or not, I certainly felt a unique, calming presence. One particularly intriguing feature is the “headache hole” within the chapel. By placing your head inside a niche in the wall, it is said that the sound and the stone’s vibrations can alleviate headaches.
Beyond the chapel’s spiritual allure, the surrounding area is rich with history. The Romans once carved a path into the rock, remnants of which are still visible.
The Enigmatic Ughür Brunnä
Further along the trail, I encountered the Ughür Brunnä, a rock cistern formed by a glacial mill. Steeped in legend, this water source is said to conceal immeasurable treasures guarded by a monstrous serpent. Attempting to claim the treasure would result in the serpent spewing poison and fire—an endeavor that apparently no soul has survived.
The eerie energy of this spot is palpable, and it is advised not to linger too long due to the draining nature of the site’s energy. Historians believe this location was once a site of pagan water worship, later demonized by Christianity.
The Peaceful Lourdes Grotto
A short walk further led me to the Lourdes Grotto, a replica of the Massabielle Grotto in Lourdes, France. Built in 1921 as a gesture of gratitude for Berschis being spared from a cattle plague, this serene spot is perfect for quiet reflection.
Practical Tips
- Safety First: Certain sections of the trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfall and the bridge due to the mist. Proper hiking shoes are essential.
- Recommended Gear: A light backpack, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly telescopic hiking poles.
- Getting There by Public Transport: Take the train direction Chur to Walenstadt and transfer to bus 442 heading to Berschis Unterdorf.
- By Car: Exit the motorway at Walenstadt/Flums and follow the main road to Berschis. Parking is limited and fee-based.
Final Thoughts
The circular hike to Berschnerfall, St. Georg’s Chapel, and the Lourdes Grotto is more than just a walk through nature—it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. Whether it’s the raw power of this lesser-known waterfall in Switzerland, the mystical energy of the chapel perched high above the valley, or the peaceful solitude of the grotto, this trail has a way of restoring both body and mind.
If you’re looking for a waterfall near Zurich that’s off the beaten tourist track, this is the perfect adventure. It’s a hike that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in the magic of Eastern Switzerland.
Few places offer such a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility, making this hike a true hidden gem. Next time you’re in need of a peaceful escape, head to Berschis—you just might find yourself wanting to return again and again.
