The Via Ferrata Aletsch runs along the rock around the Gibidum reservoir. It is secured by iron rungs, wire cables, and railings but still features some fairly demanding sections. These are especially found on the eastern shore. At the steep rock walls of Stockflüe, you really have to get a grip, as there are some exposed and slightly outward-leaning traverses.
A special thrill is the 80 m long and 40 m high Nepal bridge, which crosses the Massa river at its mouth into the Gibidum reservoir.
Blatten bei Naters, Dam (1474 m)
Blatten bei Naters, Dam
The entrance to this via ferrata at the west end of the dam is signposted. First, you descend to the shore of the reservoir. Then you climb along the western shore over numerous iron pins, log bridges, and natural footholds. At the end of the reservoir, you reach a suspension bridge to get to the other side. The return route along the eastern shore is somewhat more challenging but still manageable. Alternatively, you can continue climbing normally. Finally, you descend back onto the dam and cross it to return to the starting point.
Blatten bei Naters - Stockflüe - Via Ferrata Aletsch – Blatten bei Naters
Please note at high water levels: There is a section in the via ferrata that is underwater when water levels are high. However, there is an alternative via ferrata route above this section to avoid the water. Please pay attention to the signage.
Weather: Those on via ferratas should consider the weather forecast. Sudden bad weather can be life-threatening. Via ferratas must be avoided in case of thunderstorms.
Rockfall hazard: There is a risk of rockfalls on via ferratas, often triggered by preceding climbers or wildlife. Therefore, protect yourself with a helmet.
When on a via ferrata, always keep enough distance to the climber ahead. Only one person should be in a section of anchoring at a time.
Using the via ferrata is free of charge. However, there is a cash desk at the entrance/starting point (parking lot). The maintenance costs of the via ferrata should not be underestimated, and we greatly appreciate any contribution.
Equipment can be rented at the counter of Belalp Bahnen AG or at Blatten Belalp Tourismus AG.
Via ferrata set + helmet: CHF 30.00
Harness: CHF 15.00
Carabiner: CHF 20.00
Helmet: CHF 15.00
An exciting and thrilling experience for young and old.
Arrival by car
From Western Switzerland: A9 Lausanne - Vevey, or Northwestern Switzerland: A12 Bern - Vevey: A9 - Sierre: main road Sierre - Brig
From Northwestern Switzerland: A6 Bern - Thun - Spiez: main road Spiez - Kandersteg (car shuttle Lötschberg tunnel) - Goppenstein - Gampel - Brig
From Eastern and Central Switzerland: Andermatt - Realp (year-round car shuttle Furka; in summer via Furka pass) - Oberwald - Brig
From Ticino (in summer): Airolo - Nufenen pass - Ulrichen – Brig
Or via Centovalli – Domodossola – Simplon pass – Brig
From Italy (Aosta, Mt. Blanc Tunnel): Aosta - Tunnel Grand Saint Bernard (in summer via the pass) - Martigny: motorway A9 - Sierre: main road Sierre – Brig
Or via Domodossola – Simplon pass – Brig
Blatten bei Naters
From Brig, you reach Blatten bei Naters via Naters, then continue towards "Rischinu". Free parking is available there.
Free parking is available at the via ferrata.
More information can be found at: www.belalp.ch
Blatten bei Naters is accessible by public transport from Brig or Naters.
From Blatten, you reach the via ferrata towards Rischinen/Gibidum reservoir after about 2.5 km on foot.
Timetables and further information on getting there can be found at: www.belalp.ch
If you have questions, please contact:
Belalp Bahnen AG
Blatten - Belalp Tourismus AG
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