Emmental (Day Trip)
Day Trip to Emmental: Swiss Cows, Rolling Hills & the Original Cheese
If you’ve ever imagined the “classic” Swiss countryside — rolling green hills, wooden chalets, distant alps, and a soundtrack of cowbells — you were probably dreaming of Emmental. This region in the canton of Bern is the birthplace of Switzerland’s most famous cheese (yes, the one with the holes!) and one of the best day trips from Geneva if you’re craving peaceful landscapes and rural charm.
It’s quiet, authentic, and feels like a deep breath of fresh Alpine air — ideal for a weekend escape or even a spontaneous midweek getaway.
Getting There
Getting to Emmental from Geneva takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by train, with a connection in Bern and then onto a smaller local line. It’s a lovely, scenic journey as you leave the bustle of city life behind and trade it for grazing cows and gently curving hills.
Swiss travel tip: If you’re renting a car, the Emmental valley is made for a road trip. The little villages, hidden dairy farms, and lush meadows are best explored at your own pace.
First Impressions
Emmental isn’t a town — it’s a region, and that’s part of the magic. It feels open and serene, like a pastoral painting come to life. I remember standing near a cheese dairy, just watching the mist lift off the hills, the cows slowly wandering into the pastures, and thinking, this is Switzerland in its purest form.
The air smells of hay, butter, and pine. And it’s so quiet. It makes you want to whisper.
What to Do in Emmental
Visit a Cheese Dairy: The best-known is the Emmentaler Schaukäserei in Affoltern im Emmental. Here you can see how Emmental cheese is made — and taste it straight from the source. The cheese tastings are generous, and there’s even a chance to make your own little wheel of cheese!
Hike the Emmental Trails: One of my favorite things about this region is how easy and rewarding the hikes are. Think gentle climbs, sweeping vistas, and the occasional farm stand selling fresh apple juice. Try the Lueg Lookout Point for panoramic views.
Wooden Bridges & Farmhouses: The traditional Emmental farmhouses are breathtaking, with their huge roofs and flower-filled balconies. And don’t miss the covered wooden bridges — perfect for a countryside photo stop.
Visit Burgdorf: This small town at the edge of the Emmental region has a beautiful castle, narrow streets, and cozy cafés. A great place to stop for lunch or a short stroll.
Where to Eat
Restaurant Emmentalerhof in Affoltern offers classic Swiss dishes with seasonal ingredients — their rösti with Emmental cheese is as local as it gets.
Gasthof Lueg is a perfect spot for a more refined lunch with a view. Sit on the terrace if the weather allows — you’ll never want to leave.
And of course, buy some cheese to bring home. They vacuum-pack it for you, so no worries about the train ride back!
Travel Tips
Check opening times: Many dairies and rural restaurants have limited hours, especially on Sundays.
Wear walking shoes: Even if you're not hiking, there’s always a meadow or hillside calling your name.
Bring cash: Small farm stands and rural cafés sometimes don’t accept cards.
Final Thoughts
Emmental might not be flashy, but that’s exactly its charm. It’s a slice of rural Switzerland that still moves at a slower, sweeter pace. If you want to feel grounded, connected to the land, and reminded of life’s simple pleasures — this is your spot.
So next time you're looking for a Swiss destination that’s calm, cozy, and full of cheese (in the best way), Emmental is the perfect day trip from Geneva.
— Diana
