Zurich Day Trip: Aletsch, Longest Glacier in the Alps

Bettmeralp is a fairytale village above the clouds — car-free, peaceful, and surrounded by jaw-dropping alpine scenery. From here, you’ll step straight into postcard views of the mighty Aletsch Glacier, wander cozy chalet-lined paths, and soak up the magic of Switzerland’s high Alps.

The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching over 20 kilometers through the Swiss mountains. From panoramic viewpoints like Bettmerhorn, you’ll admire its endless ice flows, dramatic crevasses, and breathtaking alpine scenery. It’s one of Switzerland’s most iconic natural wonders and a true bucket-list experience.

Fiescheralp is a scenic, car-free mountain resort perched high above the Rhone Valley, offering stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. Known for its peaceful alpine atmosphere, it’s a favorite starting point for hiking, paragliding, and panoramic sightseeing. With its traditional chalets and wide-open mountain landscapes, Fiescheralp is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the Swiss Alps.

Bettmerhorn is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Swiss Alps, offering sweeping panoramas of the UNESCO-listed Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. Accessible by cable car, it combines breathtaking scenery with the comfort of a mountaintop restaurant, where you can relax and take in the views. It’s the ultimate highlight of any trip to the Aletsch Arena.

Brig is a charming historic town in the Valais region, known for its picturesque old town, cobblestone streets, and Baroque architecture. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, it serves as a gateway to the Aletsch Arena and offers cozy cafés, local shops, and cultural landmarks like Stockalper Palace. Brig combines Swiss charm with easy access to breathtaking mountain scenery.

Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn is a scenic Swiss railway that winds through the Alps, offering stunning views of mountains, valleys, and glaciers along the way. Famous for its panoramic routes, including spiraling loops and impressive viaducts, the train provides a comfortable and unforgettable alpine journey. It’s a highlight for travelers seeking both breathtaking scenery and a classic Swiss rail experience.