Simme

Simme is a river in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, in the Bernese Oberland. It gives its name to the Simmental, a prominent alpine valley in the region. The headwaters originate in the upper Simmen valley, and the river generally flows northward through the valley, passing communities such as Zweisimmen, Boltigen, and Lenk im Simmental. Along its course it collects water from numerous tributaries and drains a portion of the eastern Bernese Oberland before joining the Emme. Through the Emme, the Simme’s waters ultimately reach the Aare and then flow into the Rhine basin.

The Simme is about 60 to 64 kilometers long. The surrounding landscape features alpine meadows and forests that support a variety of wildlife, including freshwater fish such as brook trout. The river and its valley are popular for outdoor recreation, including hiking, cycling, and winter tourism in nearby resorts.

Historically, the Simmental region has been associated with traditional Swiss farming and the Simmental cattle breed, which takes its name from the valley. The river remains a natural and cultural feature of the Bernese Oberland, shaping both the local landscape and rural livelihoods.