Baseltor
Solothurn
Baseltor, known as the Basel Gate, is a historic site located at the northern edge of Solothurn's old town. It serves as the terminus of the Solothurn–Niederbipp railway line, which was opened in 1918 and connects Solothurn with Niederbipp. The gate marks the boundary between the old town and the area north of the Aare river. The railway line was extended with a tramway-like section over the Röti bridge in 1925, enhancing connectivity with the Swiss Federal Railways station south of the Aare. Baseltor stands as a symbol of Solothurn's transport history and urban development, linking the old town with the modern rail network. Today, Baseltor is also a cultural hub featuring a cooperative restaurant acclaimed for its Mediterranean slow food cuisine with an oriental touch, led by chef Pia Camponovo. Visitors can enjoy local and regional ingredients in a welcoming atmosphere, making Baseltor both a historic landmark and a vibrant social venue.
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Tip: The best time to visit Baseltor and its restaurant is during local events or seasonal specials, such as the Easter package offering regional breakfasts and welcome drinks. Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during holidays or weekends. Visitors can also benefit from gift vouchers for celebrations and flexible dining options. The site is accessible via the Solothurn–Niederbipp railway line, with close proximity to the main Swiss Federal Railways station, facilitating easy travel connections.
Interesting facts
- •The Solothurn–Niederbipp railway line is locally known as the 'Bipperlisi', a name officially recognized by the canton of Solothurn.
- •Baseltor was the original terminus of the Solothurn–Niederbipp-Bahn before the extension to the main station via the Röti bridge in 1925.
- •The Baseltor restaurant is a cooperative establishment that has received 12 GaultMillau points for its Mediterranean slow food cuisine with an oriental touch.
- •The Solothurn–Niederbipp railway line uses a metre-gauge track and has been in continuous operation since 1918.
History
Baseltor originally served as the terminus of the Solothurn–Niederbipp railway line opened in 1918, positioned north of the Aare river at the edge of Solothurn's old town.
Initially, the line ended at Baseltor, while the main Swiss Federal Railways station was located south of the river.
In 1925, the Röti bridge was constructed to connect the Baseltor terminus with the main station, enabling tramway-like service across the river.
Over the decades, Baseltor has remained a key transport node and cultural landmark, witnessing the evolution of local rail transport and urban growth in Solothurn.
Contact
Phone: 032 622 34 22