How It Started:
Our adventure began with one of our favorite ways to start a trip—the always exciting drive with breathtaking views. We love taking the BLS Autoverlad Lötschberg train to reach Valais. Not only does it save a significant amount of driving, but it’s also thrilling to drive onto the train with our car and journey through the mountain!
Upon arriving in Leukerbad, we set up camp at Camping Sportarena.
The Camp Site:
Without wasting any time, we geared up for our hike. We started from the campground, heading toward Clabinualp on a scenic circular route that would eventually bring us back to the charming town of Leukerbad.
The Trusty Trail Map:
The trail began as a casual walk along a wide gravel path. Our pace was slower at first, as we had to step aside for mountain bikers preparing for a race the following day. Once the trail cleared, we could finally immerse ourselves in the peaceful surroundings—the towering mountains and the beauty of nature.
Leukerbad is nestled at the foot of the dramatic Gemmi Pass, a route historically used by traders and travelers for centuries to cross between cantons. The area's thermal springs, which were known even in Roman times, made it a destination for rest and rejuvenation. As we hiked, we could feel the deep connection between nature, history, and the traditions that continue in these mountains today.
Leukerbad:
Leukerbad is not only known for its thermal baths and scenic mountain views, but also for its charming town atmosphere, which reflects a rich history and traditional Swiss architecture. The town’s layout is a delightful mix of old wooden chalets and newer buildings, creating a peaceful and welcoming environment.
One of the most prominent landmarks in Leukerbad is its **Romanesque church**, which stands proudly in the town center. This church, dedicated to St. Lawrence, dates back to the 15th century, and its simple yet elegant design gives the town an air of timeless spirituality. The church’s stone tower and wooden-shingled roof blend perfectly with the surrounding Alpine environment, symbolizing the deep connection between nature and faith in this region.
Walking through Leukerbad, you’ll encounter **centuries-old wooden chalets**, many of which are well-preserved and still used as homes or guesthouses today. These traditional Swiss houses, often made from darkened timber and featuring intricately carved balconies, are a testament to the village’s heritage. Many of these buildings have stood the test of time, with some dating back several hundred years, adding to the authentic Alpine charm of the village.
In addition to the chalets and the church, Leukerbad has a quaint town square where locals and visitors can enjoy cafés and small shops. The cobbled streets and narrow alleys offer a glimpse into the village's past, where people lived simply but in harmony with the rugged Alpine landscape. The blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and the town’s unique cultural heritage makes Leukerbad a fascinating place to explore beyond just its famous thermal waters.
Now the Hike:
We ascended about 500 meters, passing through serene patches of forest, meadows dotted with grazing cows, and an unbelievable number of grasshoppers. I had never seen so many before—each step sent a dozen of them hopping away from our feet!
At one point, we reached a narrow bridge with a steep drop below. I let Micah cross first, as heights aren’t my strong suit. He crossed easily, so I followed, but those last 10 feet were nerve-wracking as the bridge tilted slightly to the left. I was relieved to step off on solid ground!
Reaching Clabinualp, we stopped at a perfectly placed picnic table for a snack. The panoramic view of the town and surrounding mountains was absolutely stunning. Feeling re-energized, we continued our hike toward Flüealp, where we encountered a herd of sheep leisurely grazing their way up the valley.
As the day started to slip away, we decided to linger with the sheep for a bit before heading back to town. On our return, we unexpectedly stumbled upon the Thermalquellen-Steg-Dalaschlucht. From the top, the path looked quite daunting. It’s definitely not something I’d recommend on a rainy day, and proper footwear is essential! The gorge was breathtaking and added an exciting twist to our adventure. Our hike reached about 12 kilometres, with an easy accent and decent. It wasnt physicaly demanding however the views really hit the spot!
The View:
Back in town, we enjoyed a cozy evening at the campsite, cooking dinner and attending a bonfire with live music in front of the arena. We ended the day by stargazing before calling it a night.
The next morning greeted us with rain, but it didn’t dampen the spirit of an unforgettable weekend in Leukerbad. After packing up, we happened to stumble upon a large herd of sheep being led down the mountain by several shepherds. They were coming from their summer pastures high above Leukerbad at Gemmipass, making their way down to Leuk for the colder months ahead.
We had the unique opportunity to walk alongside them for part of the way, through the town, as they made their seasonal migration. It’s always a pleasant surprise to come across these kinds of unexpected experiences in the Alps—moments that make every trip even more special.
To wrap up this adventure, we can't wait to come back to Leukerbad, as there is so much more to see and so many incredible trails still waiting to be explored. One hike that’s definitely on our list for next time is the stunning **Daubensee Loop** at the top of Gemmi Pass. This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the turquoise Daubensee lake and the surrounding peaks. We’re also excited to hike up to the **Lämmerenhütte SAC**, a cozy mountain hut nestled high in the Alps, perfect for an overnight stay amidst the rugged beauty of the mountains. With its combination of history, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, Leukerbad has certainly captured our hearts, and we look forward to our next adventure in this Alpine paradise!
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