Blatten is an unspoilt mountain village in Valais. It is characterised by its sun-darkened wooden houses topped with stone slabs, as well as the distinctive Valais storehouses. Starting from the valley station in Blatten at an altitude of 1,327 metres, the route will initially take you along the street, reaching the Belstar restaurant “zum Franz” after a short distance. This is the last opportunity to replenish your energy levels.

At the bend slightly below the restaurant, the trail takes you across the Bruchi stream before delving into Rischinu Forest. Surrounded by fir trees, the route then continues along a slightly hilly terrain towards the Gibidum dam situated above the Massa Gorge. Besides the Massa and a variety of mountain streams, the gorge is also supplied with water from the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. Interestingly, 65% of the reservoir’s basin is glaciated. From the arch dam, standing at 120 metres, you can see across the water and over into the mountains – it’s worth a detour for the views alone.

The return journey follows the same route, the trail forking at around the halfway point. After a trip through the fir forest, you’ll find yourself back at the valley station in Blatten. The route is suitable for a snowshoe stroll with the whole family. It is a short but very beautiful and easy snowshoe outing. The PostBus will take winter sports enthusiasts back to Naters or Brig.