Blossom time around Basel in Switzerland – hike through cherry orchards

You find yourself in northwestern Switzerland, in the Baselland region to be precise. Winter is drawing to an end and spring is just around the corner. Day by day, the sun's rays grow warmer, coaxing the bare forests to don their green attire. In every direction, the landscape is evolving, becoming more vibrant and alive. Across the meadows, scattered throughout the region, fruit trees patiently await the arrival of bees. They know that they’ll come, for few can resist the beauty of a cherry tree in full blossom.

In this Collection, I present five day hikes that showcase the Baselland region at its finest. These Tours are particularly enchanting in spring during the ‘Bluescht’ – the cherry blossom season. With their delicate white petals, the orchards transform the picturesque meadow landscapes into a stunning sea of flowers. These hikes are equally delightful in summer, when the lush green cherry trees bear their crimson fruits, or in autumn, when the leaves turn bronze.

From a leisurely, family-friendly stroll around Wildenstein Castle to the 500-metre (1,600 ft) ascent of Gempen, you’ll find a route that suits you. Alongside the orchards, the well-preserved village centres with their traditional farmhouses, fountains, churches and chapels are always a sight to behold. For those seeking something truly extraordinary, I recommend the Tour around Arisdorf.

Thanks to the extensive bus and train network, the Tours are easy to access using public transport and start and/or finish at bus stops. On all but one route, you can replenish your energy at a restaurant or farm shop along the way.

Lastly, here are a few tips to ensure both you and the farmers are happy after your hike:
- Farmers rely on cherry sales, so refrain from plucking fruits directly from the trees; instead, purchase them from local village shops or farm stands to support the region.
- The grass beneath the trees serves as fodder for cows, sheep and other livestock, so tread lightly and avoid trampling the grass wherever possible.
- Old, decaying trees or piles of branches provide habitats for insects and small animals, so admire them from a distance and refrain from disturbing or moving them.