A perfect Escape!
I have had this specific spot on my radar for years, and I knew it would be the perfect location! We camped at Camping Mattli, a small, charming campsite nestled in the valley of Göscheneralp, a stunning and relatively untouched area located in the Uri Canton of central Switzerland. The drive there was stunning, with lots of twisty roads and great views for the passenger. Make sure your ears are open for the horn of the bus; as it takes turns, it will warn you of the many blind turns and narrow passages.
Upon arriving, the staff at the campground were fabulous. We got our campsite set up and then headed off for a little walk. We met up with a herd of friendly goats and spent some time getting to know them. After our walk, we went back to our site and made some food. An extra bonus to this location is that there is no cell service, so it is a great time to unplug and just enjoy the scenery. However, make sure you warn your family you will be out of reach for a day or two so you don’t leave anyone worried, especially given the recent weather we’ve been having!
The morning greeted us with towering peaks and sunny skies, an odd feeling as Switzerland has mostly been rain and clouds lately. It was nice to get some UV rays in! We drove to the restaurant at the top, Göscheneralp Restaurant, and started our hike from there. The area around Göscheneralp offers a network of hiking trails suitable for all levels of experience. One popular route is the hike from Göscheneralp Restaurant to Bergseehütte and further towards Chelenalphütte. This trail takes you through diverse terrains, including alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, rocky outcrops, and glacial rivers.
We headed to the right up towards Bergseehütte but then took a left turn to head down to the lake. Once reaching the end of the lake, we went up the valley until the trail went towards Chelenalphütte. We stopped on a large rock, ate lunch, and enjoyed the view before making our way back. The entire hiking trail was stunning from start to finish. The wildflowers and alpine roses were never-ending. I even found a calm area in the glacier river for a little cold plunge! It was a perfect day! We ended it with a beer back at the Göscheneralp Restaurant, where we connected to the Wi-Fi and let our family know where we were.
Göscheneralp is not just about natural beauty; it also has historical and cultural significance. The region has been shaped by centuries of alpine farming and traditional Swiss mountain life. Small villages and hamlets in the area retain their rustic charm, offering a glimpse into the traditional Swiss way of life. Additionally, the strategic location of the Göscheneralp valley has historically been important for trade and travel through the Alps.
The Göscheneralp area is a haven for biodiversity. Its varied ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endemic to the region. Conservation efforts are in place to preserve the unique flora and fauna, making it a significant area for ecological research and environmental education.
This adventure was everything I hoped for and more. If you’re looking for a place to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, Camping Mattli and the surrounding trails are the perfect choice. Göscheneralp provides an unforgettable experience with its pristine environment, historical charm, and the opportunity it offers to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Happy trekking!
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