The BärenPark Bern is a modern animal enclosure that was opened in 2009 to house brown bears in a species-appropriate environment. It replaced the bear pit that did not meet the standards for care of the species. Situated across from Berns city center, along the banks of the River Aare the park is a part of the Bern Zoo. The primary section of the zoo, known as Dählhölzli extends two kilometers southwest along the Aare riverbank.
The BärenPark and the old bear pit are among the most famous sights in Bern and are closely associated with the bear as the heraldic animal of the city and canton of Bern.
BärenPark – landmark of Bern
A unique bear home in the middle of the city
The Bernese bears have a place, in the BärenPark overlooking Berns old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Affectionately called the “Mutzen” these bears reside in a park situated on the slope of the River Aare.
Covering 5,000 meters the grounds stretch from the former bear pit to the Aare riverbanks and are designed to be accessible to all. An innovative inclined lift known as the “BäreBähnli” offers an wheelchair friendly link, between the riverbanks and the upper section of the park. Riding this lift allows visitors to glide past the bears while exploring the park. An adventure!
From history to the modern BärenPark
Bears have been housed in Bern since 1513 in the city and later, in the bear pit starting from 1857. Since 2009 they have a residence at the BärenPark. Visitors can explore both the enclosure and the new park with its green landscapes, caves and the “bear bath” by the River Aare.
Guided tours are available to provide visitors with insights into the history of BärenPark details about the bears themselves and a peek behind the scenes.
A visit to BärenPark Bern offers not a captivating nature experience but an exploration of Berns bear keeping history and a contribution, to the protection and well being of brown bears.
Video Bern Bear Park / bear pit
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