Weighing 10 billion tonnes, 79 square kilometres, 20km long and 800 metres deep - these are the impressive dimensions of the Great Aletsch Glacier in the Valais. There is no other place where one feels so small and yet so energetic. What a fascinating place it is, one that encourages you to take a break and replenish your energy. This newsletter is an invitation for you to explore this natural wonder with us. Two excellent Hotelcard partner hotels are located nearby, in Brig, the perfect starting point for your excursion.
Enjoy the best view
Although the peak season only starts in June, this ice giant can already be contemplated on weekends in May from one of the top vantage points, the Hohfluh at 2227 m.a.s.l. It takes about 15 minutes by public transport or by car from Brig to Mörel. Take the cable car from there to Riederalp West station via Ried-Mörel which takes about 30 minutes. The Riederalp - Hohfluh chairlift climbs the last few metres of altitude in just a few minutes. Once at the top, the mighty glacier appears close enough to grasp. For information about opening hours in spring, click here.
We recommend stopping by the View Points Eggihorn or Bettmerhorn if you plan to travel to the Aletsch region from June onwards. The region offers not only spectacular panoramic views, but also one of the most beautiful alpine forests in Switzerland. There are numerous hikes in the Aletsch forest, an old pine-larch forest, where you can stroll, or, for example, walk across the 124-metre-long suspension bridge between Riederalp and Belalp. Click here to discover the various hiking trails.
Stockalperhof ****
This 4-star hotel has adorned our hotel portfolio in the Valais since the beginning of 2022. As you might have guessed, the hotel is named after the Stockalper Castle. Its charm has been taken up in the entire interior design and has now resulted in an elegant blend of history and modernity. This beautiful boutique hotel is located in the centre of Brig, just 5 minutes walk from the train station. Perfect for guests travelling by public transportation.
The Premium Rooms with balcony and the Panorama Lifestyle Rooms overlook the picturesque, vibrant old town of Brig and the impressive panorama of the Simplon Mountains. Do you like Italian food? If so, you've come to the right place. The team in the kitchen will spoil you with Italian delicacies and homemade pasta.
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Hotel Alex ****
The 4-star Hotel Alex is located in Naters, a suburb of Brig. Relax and unwind after an exciting day in the mountains. The charming wellness area "ALETSCHSPA" features an 80 sqm adventure pool, various saunas, aroma steam baths, an adventure shower and a Kneipp foot bubble bath. Should that not be enough, guests can indulge in relaxing moments with their partner in the private spa (2 hours at CHF 220) or drift away in the floating pool (30 minutes for 2 people at CHF 130). Reservations mandatory.
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Stockalper Castle
A visit to Brig's landmark is not to be missed. The Stockalper Castle was built in the 17th century as a "domus mercatoria" (merchant's residence) for Kaspar Stockalper. The palace now serves as accommodation for the municipal administration and the district court. The 13,000 square metre historic garden also welcomes visitors for a cosy gathering. From 1 May onwards, official guided tours of the palace will take place every Thursday. You may participate without prior reservation to find out more about the exciting history of the baroque castle once owned by the great Kaspar Stockalper.
© Brig Simplon Tourismus - Silvio Burgener