Via Alpina

As each mountain pass is crossed, the valleys of Adelboden-Lenk-Kandersteg reveal themselves in all their alpine splendour. The flora and fauna of the Bernese Oberland are truly magnificent, while the “Queen’s Stage” of Via Alpina over Hohtürli is guaranteed to take your breath away.

From Griesalp, you can already see it – Hohtürli at 2778 m (9114 ft.) above sea level. Surely no one should feel too daunted by this rocky climb consisting of loose gravel and hewn steps since this is one of the most famous stages of Via Alpina. The starting point is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and after the pass at Blüemlisalp Hut, it continues with glacier views, a descent to Lake Oeschinen and then a final spurt to Kandersteg.

Over six-and-a-half hours to cover 16 km (10 miles) on the mountain, this technically medium-difficult stage requires some stamina. But hikers are rewarded with spectacular views for their efforts. After starting in Kandersteg, Stage 14 wends its steep way through forest and meadows up to Bunderchrinde. From the spectacular pass into Engstlige Valley (Engstligental), the trail’s end in Adelboden can be seen in the distance below.

This is a technically simple, four-and-a-half-hour hike between Adelboden and Lenk. Initially, the eyes are drawn to the imposing Engstlige Waterfalls, while the path leads via Bergläger and Geils to Hahnenmoos Pass. Here, the panorama opens up to take in the Simmental Valley, while the mighty Wildstrubel massif towers above to the left. After the descent, hikers can relax in the sulphurous waters of the thermal springs.