The place to seek out the perfect views in Valais—Switzerland’s most picturesque area

High up in Switzerland’s south west, Valais is the place the Alps take centre stage. Here, unbelievable jagged peaks soar above sunlit vineyards, and glaciers scythe deep by means of historical valleys scattered with quaint villages. Autumn is the best time to go to: trails are hushed, the air sharp and the sunshine crystalline sufficient to make each ridge and summit really feel as if it’s inside touching distance. From the Matterhorn’s chiselled silhouette to the dramatic sweep of the Aletsch Glacier, listed here are 4 of the perfect viewpoints framing Valais.

Gornergrat Railway: the Matterhorn’s most iconic view

Rising to three,089m (10,135ft), the Gornergrat summit presents one among Switzerland’s most commanding panoramas. Getting up there may be a part of the attraction: the century-old cogwheel Gornergrat Railway climbs from the resort of Zermatt in 33 minutes, crossing stone viaducts and pine forests earlier than cresting magnificently above the treeline. At the highest, guests can see the Matterhorn’s distinctive angular summit — which can also be seen from Zermatt beneath — in addition to 28 different 4,000-metre peaks, their glaciers glittering underneath the beautiful autumn daylight. Trails loop previous nonetheless Alpine lakes in addition to the terrace of the historic Kulmhotel — the highest-altitude bolthole within the Swiss Alps. Stay late in the event you can: as soon as the final prepare departs, silence descends over the peaks, interrupted solely by the whistling wind.

While you’re there: Walk 45 minutes or take the railway again right down to Lake Riffelsee, the place the Matterhorn’s reflection within the nonetheless water is one among Switzerland’s most photographed scenes.

Aletsch Glacier: Europe’s longest ice move

Stretching for 12 miles, the Aletsch Glacier is a frozen river of ice and rock that’s each a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the scenic anchor of the three mountain villages that make up the Aletsch Arena. The finest vantage level is from the Eggishorn mountain, reached by cable-car from the village of Fiesch. This is the one place in Switzerland the place you may see the complete size of the glacier, which curves up in direction of the twinkling Bernese Alps. In autumn, the air is crisp and the crowds skinny, leaving the panorama to hardy hikers and keen photographers. Trails wind by means of golden larch forests and previous conventional Alpine huts, whereas data boards clarify how the glacier is being affected by local weather change. From this top, the huge scale of the Alps feels nearly summary — peaks jutting like ragged enamel above a silent sea of ice.

While you’re there: Take the shorter path to Bettmerhorn viewpoint for a distinct perspective over the glacier and the cobalt-blue Märjelensee lake.

Mattmark Reservoir: a high-altitude oasis in Saas-Fee/Saastal

Perched prettily above the village of Saas-Almagell at 2,200m, the turquoise waters of the Mattmark Reservoir are hemmed in by epic snow-streaked summits and Europe’s highest earth dam. A stage path traces the shoreline — a simple two-hour circuit that’s particularly joyful in autumn, when these vivid Alpine blooms fade to russet and the clear air etches each ridge in sharp aid. For extra adventures, proceed into the Saastal Valley, which is surrounded by 18 4,000-metre peaks and quite a few glaciers, or go to the quaint, car-free village of Saas-Fee.

While you’re there: Take the cable automotive from Saas-Grund to Kreuzboden, situated at 2,400m above sea stage, the place you may discover an attractive glacier lake and loads of mountaineering trails.

Barme Plateau: Alpine tranquillity at its purest

Out within the far west of Valais, close to the French border, the Barme Plateau feels blissfully remoted from the issues of the broader world. Reached by way of a winding highway above the village of Champéry within the Région Dents du Midi, this secluded meadow is encircled by sheer limestone cliffs and dense pine forests, and soundtracked by tinkling cowbells. September is dreamy right here: the summer season warmth softens, trails are quiet and the primary hints of autumn paint the spruces. Hike the mild paths throughout the plateau, pausing at rustic mountain cafes serving cheese from close by dairies. Look up and also you’ll spot climbers tackling the pale peaks of the Dents Blanches — the vary’s identify interprets as ‘white enamel.’

While you’re there: Follow the brief path to Galerie Défago, a clifftop path carved into the rock face, with knockout views over the Rhône Valley beneath.

(Surprised by Valais? Discover extra of Switzerland right here.)