The Swiss Alps are well known for their breathtaking mountain scenery and iconic peaks that have enthralled visitors for centuries. However, there are many hidden corners of Switzerland that still remain off the beaten path, away from the tourist crowds. Nestled in quiet valleys surrounded by soaring alpine giants lie tranquil towns and villages that offer visitors an authentic Alpine experience. Along with charming towns to explore, these lesser-known regions are true hiking paradises, with trails winding through diverse landscapes ranging from lush meadows to barren heights.
One of the most remote and untouched valleys in the Swiss Alps is Lötschental, located in the canton of Valais. This secluded valley is surrounded on all sides by jagged limestone peaks reaching over 4,000 meters, forming a natural barrier that has helped preserve the traditional way of life here. The main town in Lötschental valley is Ferden, whose stone houses and barns dotted along terraced hillsides create an idyllic Alpine scene.
Hiking in Lötschental
With over 100 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails crisscrossing the valley and surrounding mountains, Lötschental is a hiker’s paradise. One of the most scenic routes is the six-hour hike from Ferden up to the Lötschen Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,317 meters with incredible views of towering mountain walls along the way. For those seeking a more challenging multi-day hike, the Alpine Pass Route traverses Lötschental Valley before crossing into Italy, taking hikers on an unforgettable journey through vivid Alpine scenery. Be sure to stop in the mountain huts dotting the trails to sample delicious local cheeses and soups.
Things to Do in Ferden
The town of Ferden itself offers a tranquil base for exploring the area. Wander through its stone streets lined with historic buildings and visit its small museum showcasing traditional farming tools and clothing. Be sure to try homemade treats like Walliser Roggenbrot rye bread and chocolate-filled Walliser Nusstorte nut tart at one of the local bakeries. In the evenings, cozy up next to a wooden stove at a mountain lodge and indulge in a hearty cheese fondue. Lötschental’s remote setting and traditional character make it the perfect escape from the bustle of modern life, transporting visitors back to a simpler Alpine era.
Kandersteg
Nestled at the crossroads of four beautiful Alpine valleys in the Bernese Oberland region sits the town of Kandersteg. Although not as remote as Lötschental, Kandersteg remains untouched by large-scale tourism thanks to its location off major transit routes. The tranquility and gorgeous natural surroundings have long attracted hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to this idyllic Alpine village.
Hiking from Kandersteg
Kandersteg is a true hiker’s paradise, with over 200km of trails right from town through wildflower-filled meadows, crystalline mountain lakes, and overlooking spectacular Alpine vistas. Some of the most rewarding short hikes include the two-hour jaunt to Oeschinensee, a tranquil alpine lake embraced by forested slopes. For those seeking a challenge, hike six hours up to the rocky panoramas at Blumenlage at 2,279m. Kandersteg is also an ideal base for multi-day treks like the well-trafficked Alpine Pass Route and Haute Route that cross into Italy.
Things to Do in Town
When not exploring the surrounding trails and valleys, Kandersteg’s charming little town offers quiet pleasures. Wander cobbled streets lined with chalet-style homes, pause to admire mountain views from its riverside promenade, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere over coffee at one of the cafés. Other activities include an open-air swimming pool, adventure park, and scenic gondola ride up the 1,800m Sesselbahn to Oeschinen Lake with mountain panoramas. Kandersteg is the perfect quiet escape from the busy tourist hordes, providing an authentic Swiss Alpine experience amid stunning natural beauty.
Walensee and Glarus Alps
Nestled between towering Glarus Alps peaks lies picturesque Walensee, Switzerland’s sunniest lake region. Lake Walen occupies a gorgeous glacial valley surrounded by forested hills dotted with quaint villages like Weesen and Mollis. Less frequented than other Swiss lakes, Walensee offers visitors a serene getaway amid stunning scenery.
Hiking around Walensee
The diverse terrain surrounding Walensee offers excellent hiking opportunities for all skill levels. For a scenic and easy walk, follow the five-hour lakeside trail through orchards and meadows. Those seeking more of challenge can tackle dramatic multi-day traverses like the Sardona Trail, which climbs over high mountain passes with panoramic lake and mountain views. Less strenuous options include the two to three hour hikes to Hörnli or Rütli meadows, quintessential Swiss postcard scenes. The pristine natural setting combined with uncrowded trails make Walensee a top hiking destination.
Things to Do near Walensee
While majestic surrounding peaks are the main draw, the towns and villages also offer quiet pleasures. Historical Mollis preserves century-old buildings and public fountains, Weesen hosts a weekly market and charming waterfront promenade. Further east, medieval Glarus, with its brightly painted buildings, is a cultural gem renowned for traditional woodcarvings. Other activities include taking a scenic cruise on azure Walensee, cycling along lakeside trails, or simply relaxing in one of the secluded swimming spots and beaches. Walensee’s combination of natural beauty, laidback towns, and expansive hiking options provide the perfect escape into glorious alpine landscapes.
Chur and the Calanda Massif
Nestled in a valley at the intersection of the Rhine and Calanda Massif sits Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city dating back to 15 BC. Despite its status as capital of Grisons canton, Chur manages to retain an unpretentious ambiance thanks to its medieval old town and outskirts surrounded by towering mountain peaks. Nearby, the Calanda Massif offers excellent hiking in a lesser traveled region boasting vivid mountain scenery.
Hiking around Calanda Massif
The Calanda Massif rises up immediately southwest of Chur, providing short but scenic hikes right from the city center. One of the most rewarding is the two to three-hour hike up to Calanda’s 2,365m summit, rewarded with panoramic views of the Alps and Chur. For a multi-day adventure, the Calanda High Route traverses the heights over five days, passing mountain lakes and crossing windswept limestone ridges. Less challenging options like the two-hour hike to Mariasprung, enjoy forest trails with views onto Chur and the Rhine Valley below. The proximity and diversity of trails make Calanda Massif an easily accessible hiking paradise near Switzerland’s oldest city.
Exploring Chur
After hiking the peaks, unwind by exploring Chur’s historic landmarks. Wander cobbled alleys and squares of the atmospheric old town, pausing to peek into courtyards and 16th-century buildings. Inside Chur’s cathedral, don’t miss the exquisite Romanesque frescoes. Other highlights include Chur’s open-air Musea da Chamonna folk museum and marketplace, which has local specialties to sample. In the evenings, dine on hearty rustic fare like Bündner Gerstensuppe barley soup and savor fine wines from local vineyards overlooking the Rhine Valley — the perfect leisurely post-hike activities in this underrated Swiss city.
FAQs
How remote are these areas really?
While more off the beaten path than destinations like Zermatt or Interlaken, these regions are still easily accessible from major transit hubs. Lötschental is a 2-3 hour drive from Bern or Brig, while Kandersteg, Walensee, and Chur can be reached within 2 hours from Zurich airport by car or train. Cell service may be intermittent in the most remote high-altitude areas, but towns and villages all have phone reception.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The summer months of June-August offer the most pleasant conditions, with warm temperatures for hiking and swimming. Fall from September to October can also be ideal, with colorful foliage and fewer crowds. In spring (April-May) and early summer, wildflowers bloom. Winter brings skiing opportunities nearby, though roads may be closed at higher elevations with heavy snowfall.
What level of fitness is required for hiking trails?
Trails range greatly from easy lakeside strolls to strenuous multi-day mountain passes. Many iconic routes like Sardona and Alpine Pass traverse rocky scree slopes and mountain heights at elevations over 2,000m, requiring good fitness, sure-footedness, and appropriate outdoor gear. However, each region also has many shorter routes suitable for all ability levels. Proper planning and checking trail details/maps are important to choosing hikes that match your skills.
What type of accommodations are available?
Accommodation options include charming mountain lodges, guesthouses and hotels in the towns and villages. Many towns have campgrounds near lakes and trails as well. It is recommended that you book lodging in advance during peak season. Lodges along multi-day hiking routes take walk-in guests on availability but have limited capacity. Some trails have basic mountain huts run by local Alpine clubs to stop for meals and overnight.
What local specialties can visitors try?
Local cuisine features cheese, meat and potatoes – staples of hearty Swiss mountain fare. Must-tries include fondues, raclette melted over potatoes, wild game dishes in fall/winter, and Bündner Nusstorte nut tart for dessert. Local beers, herb liquor Grappa and Swiss wines pair perfectly. Each region has their own speciality – Walliser Roggenbrot rye bread in Valais or Bündner Gerstensuppe barley soup in Grisons. Fresh ingredients and simple preparations let the flavors shine through.