National Parks and Nature Reserves in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there is one main national park, the Swiss National Park (Schweizerischer Nationalpark), which stands out for being the oldest and one of the largest in the Alps. This park was founded in 1914 and is located in the canton of Graubünden. It is known for its strict conservation policy and for the rich biodiversity it hosts, including a variety of Alpine flora and fauna.

In addition to the Swiss National Park, there are several other protected areas classified as Swiss nature parks, with the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch being a highlight. These nature parks are ecologically significant areas where more human interaction and sustainable development are allowed compared to the national park. Currently, Switzerland has 19 nature parks, including regional parks and nature parks of national importance. These parks cover a wide range of ecosystems and offer opportunities for environmental education, sustainable tourism, and the preservation of local traditions.

List of National Parks in Switzerland

List of Nature Parks in Switzerland

Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park

This park spans the picturesque landscapes of the cantons of Vaud and Fribourg, offering views of the Swiss Alps and valleys rich in cheese-making traditions. It is famous for its cultural heritage, including the production of Gruyère cheese and nature-related activities.

Thal Regional Nature Park

Located in the canton of Solothurn, this park is known for its lush forests and hills. Thal is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists, and it promotes sustainable development projects and environmental education.

Jura Vaudois Regional Nature Park

Situated in the canton of Vaud, this park covers a large part of the Swiss Jura, offering landscapes of meadows, forests, and pastures. It is a crucial area for biodiversity and is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for activities such as hiking and cross-country skiing.

Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

In the canton of Valais, this park includes one of the largest pine forest areas in Switzerland and is known for its biological diversity. Pfyn-Finges is also an important site for bird migration and has several trails to explore nature and local culture.

Chasseral Regional Nature Park

Located in the Bernese Jura, Chasseral is notable for its impressive ridge that offers panoramic views. The area is popular for activities like hiking and cycling, and it promotes landscape protection and local production.

Beverin Regional Nature Park

The park centers around Piz Beverin in Graubünden, providing a habitat for rich wildlife, including the ibex. Beverin promotes sustainable tourism and helps maintain the region’s cultural traditions.

Binntal Nature Park

Famous for its exceptional geology and mineral wealth, Binntal in Valais attracts geologists and rock enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, it offers opportunities for sustainable tourism and the exploration of its diverse ecosystem.

Ela Nature Park

As the largest nature park in Switzerland, Ela is located in the canton of Graubünden and combines impressive Alpine landscapes with rich cultural traditions. It is a meeting point for nature lovers and offers activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing.

Gantrisch Nature Park

In the canton of Bern, Gantrisch is known for its rugged mountains and crystal-clear lakes. It is an ideal place for outdoor getaways, with an extensive network of trails and mountain huts.

Diemtigtal Nature Park

Diemtigtal, also in the canton of Bern, stands out for its deeply forested valleys and traditional cultural landscape. The park promotes rural tourism and activities such as hiking and cross-country skiing.

Doubs Nature Park

This park encompasses the region around the Doubs River, creating a landscape of valleys and cliffs in the canton of Jura. It is an essential area for biodiversity and offers many recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

Schaffhausen Nature Park

In the canton of Schaffhausen, this park is known for its landscape of hills covered with vineyards and forests. Schaffhausen is a center for biodiversity and local wine, with trails to explore nature and wine culture.

Val-de-Travers Regional Nature Park

This park in the canton of Neuchâtel is famous for being the birthplace of absinthe. It offers a varied landscape of valleys and forests, with opportunities for hiking and recognizing its local traditions.

Amriville Nature Park

Amriville combines conservation, education, and tourism in the canton of Aargau, standing out for its commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.

Dreibündenstein Nature Park

Located between three cantons, this park offers varied terrain with access to numerous outdoor activities. Dreibündenstein is crucial for landscape conservation and environmental education.

Val Müstair Nature Park

Adjacent to the Swiss National Park in the canton of Graubünden, Val Müstair is important for both its biodiversity and cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Lukmanier Nature Park

In the canton of Graubünden, Lukmanier preserves an Alpine landscape and promotes sustainable tourism with a focus on conservation and education.

Aargau Jura Nature Park

This park in the canton of Aargau focuses on protecting the Jura and fostering educational and ecological tourism.

Locarnese Nature Park

Situated in the canton of Ticino, Locarnese offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and its surroundings, with a strong focus on landscape conservation and local culture.

Geographic Location Map of Switzerland’s National and Nature Parks