DestMag-A12-Sommer-2024-EN

Summer 2024
Saas-Fee/Saastal Magazine
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Ausflugsziel
Allalin
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Sonnenaufgang auf 3’500 m
Drehrestaurant Allalin

SAAS-FEE/SAASTAL – THE ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Dear readers
Everyday life usually goes unmentioned and does not become
a story, while adventurous experiences automatically
become formative stages of life.
Saas-Fee/Saastal is more than just a holiday region, it is a
promise of adventure. It is exciting, high alpine and the perfect
choice for anyone who wants to be active and collect
unforgettable moments with the whole family.
What will you experience this summer? Discover the destination
of adventures.
We look forward to your visit!
Matthias, Mattia and Benita
Matthias Supersaxo, Tourism Director
Mattia Storni, Head of Marketing and Communication
Benita Zurbriggen, Head of Guest Management and Central
Services
Frankfurt (534 km)
Germany
Munich (521 km)
Basel (228 km)
France
Zürich (246 km)
Austria
Bern (120 km)
Lausanne
Geneva (226 km)
Sion
Martigny
Gotthard
Kandersteg
Goppenstein
Visp Brigue
Iselle
Zermatt Saas-Fee
Italy
ARRIVING IN THE SAAS VALLEY
We may be located almost at the southernmost tip of Switzerland,
but your journey to us could not be easier: you only
need to change once on public transport. The unique scenery
is included! There is a direct train connection to Visp from all
of Switzerland’s major cities. Then take bus 511 to the Saas
Valley. The journey takes three hours from Zurich, Geneva and
Basel and two from Bern. If you travel by car, you will find
plenty of parking spaces in the large car park directly at the
entrance to the traffic-free village of Saas-Fee.
Milan (186 km)
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CONTENTS
Editorial
Into the sun: The new Hannig cable car
Rediscover Saas-Fee's sunny mountain
SaastalCard
For limitless freedom
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High alpine adventures
In the heart of majestic summits - A paradise for mountaineers
Keep on exploring
Discover our world of adventures
Experiences for all ages
Playgrounds, treasure hunts, feeding the marmots and more
Top events in summer and autumn
Concerts, marathons and culinary delights - it never gets boring here
Alpine multi-day hike
A unique tour over hill and dale
Boulder guide
Climbing in the most authentic way
Saas Quiz
Win a holiday in the destination of adventures
The fascination of mountain biking: Insider tip Saastal
Travels on two wheels
Reaching for the sky on rails
The success story of the Metro Alpin Saas-Fee
Hiking tips
Pleasant walks and challenging tours
Bad weather activities
Indoor adventures and activities for when the sun is not shining
BECOME PART OF THE COMMUNITY!
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Culinary adventure
Recipe – Bring a taste of Saas-Fee/Saastal into your home!
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34
Autumn in the Saas Valley – Seek and ye shall find!
Hunting for mushrooms at 1,800 m asl.
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12
25
8
16
32
6
36
40
38
14
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Would you like a taste of our Alpine experiences while keeping
up to date with the latest news? You can check us out daily on
Instagram and Facebook and discover what’s going on. Visit
our YouTube channel and discover all the exciting stories. Our
TikTok channel has some cool videos from the area.
YouTube
@saasfee
#saasfee
@saasfee_saastal
@saasfee
IMPRINT
Editor: Saastal Tourismus AG | Editorial direction: Laila Zurbriggen
Editorial: Saastal Tourismus AG, Bernd Schmellenkamp | Picture editor: Diego Kalbermatten, Laila Zurbriggen
Graphic design: Diego Kalbermatten | Proofreading: Michelle Bumann, Laura Steiner, Yves Audrimont
Fotografie: Saastal Tourismus AG, Saastal Bergbahnen AG, Nicolas Bodenmüller, Stefan Kürzi, Puzzle Media, Frederik
Kalbermatten, Filme von Draussen, Levin Studios, Bikeschule Saastal, Alleko of istock, SeventyFour of istock, Geni Christen,
Amarcster Media
Print: CH Media AG, Aarau
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Spielboden, Saas-Fee
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Cable car adventures
THE NEW HANNIG CABLE CAR
Saas-Fee gets a new Hannig cable car! When the concession
ran out in 2023, it was decided to pull down
the old cable car to make room for something shiny
and new.
The Hannig single-track cable car was built in 1969 and operated
independently. It was not until 1991 that the cable car
was taken over by Luftseilbahn Saas-Fee AG and renovated
for the first time in 1992. Previously a skiing area, the Hannig
is now a popular destination for all ages.
The finance for the new system came from the generous
support of the local population, those with second homes
in the area, friends of Saas-Fee and other benefactors, while
Saastal Bergbahnen AG was willing to provide the rest of the
capital and support the reconstruction of the Hannig cable car.
In summer 2023 the time had come: the old cable car line was
pulled down and construction on the new cable car began.
The long-awaited new gondola will reopen in early summer
2024.
The brand new Hannig cable car will accommodate 10
people and along with pushchairs, it will also be able to carry
sporting equipment such as bikes and sledges. The mountain
restaurant on the Hannig has also been redesigned and renovated
by the municipality of Saas-Fee and is being run by
a new tenant. There’s good news for the little ones too: the
new adventure playground with its glacier swing offers fun for
everyone!
Psst… The cable car is free to use in summer and autumn
with the SaastalCard!
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Discover the mountain
of sun Hannig
saas-fee.ch/hannig

SAASTALCARD
Would you like to explore our mountains? The Saastal-
Card can help you do just that in summer and autumn!
With your first overnight stay, you will be given a SaastalCard,
your key to an unforgettable stay in the Saas Valley. With the
card, you can use the cable cars (excluding the Metro Alpin)
and the Postbus in the Saas Valley free of charge and explore
the beautiful landscape with no stress. There are also some
attractive discounts of up to 30% on numerous activities to
make your stay more enjoyable. Enjoy unique experiences
with the SaastalCard as you discover the Saas Valley in all
its glory.
Discover more
saas-fee.ch/SaastalCard
Cable cars included
Explore Saas-Fee, Saas-Almagell, Saas-
Grund and Saas-Balen in a very special
way: with the SaastalCard you can use
the cable cars (except the Metro Alpin)
free of charge during your stay, including
on either your day of arrival or
on the day of departure. Discover the
beauty of the region with a bird’s eye
view and enjoy new adventures such as
hikes, downhill scooter rides and much
more every day.
The SaastalCard is valid on the cable
cars until 30 November 2024.
Metro Plus Ticket
Enjoy the view from nearly 3,500 m! The
SaastalCard or Magic Pass entitle you to
buy a Metro Plus Ticket (Felskinn - Mittelallalin
pedestrian ticket). If you have a
SaastalCard, you can use the Metro Alpin
without restriction during your stay for an
unbeatable CHF 45.00 (children 6-15.99
years of age CHF 38.00).
Postbus
Travel around the Saas Valley in complete
and convenient comfort on the
Postbus! With the SaastalCard, travel
on the Postbus is included in the four
communities of Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund,
Saas-Balen and Saas-Almagell up to
Mattmark. Leave the car behind and enjoy
your holiday at ease on foot and public
transport. Please note: Not valid for
arrival and departure by Postbus.
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Adventures high
up in the Alps
IN THE HEART OF THE FOUR-
THOUSAND-METRE PEAKS.
Intimidating, breathtaking, infinitely beautiful: when you stand
in the centre of the Saas Valley, as many as 18 four-thousandmetre
peaks are looking down on you. Imposing glaciers testify
to bygone ages, tall summits soar up to the heavens and leave
us feeling very puny. Even the most experienced mountaineers
will be impressed by such a breathtaking sight! The imposing
world of mountains and glaciers in the Saas Valley invites you
to take on adventures, produce peak performances with a real
adrenalin rush for both experienced professionals and beginners
taking their first steps on the mountains.
With 33 mountaineering tours currently on offer, we have
a large and very varied choice. A total of 6 via ferrata routes
and many mountain tours run through the region of Saas-Fee/
Saastal and invite you to explore this beautiful mountain landscape.
How about an impressive tour over the Fee Glacier, past
monumental towers of ice and yawning crevasses? Or a via
ferrata on the Jegihorn (3,206 m a.s.l.), which passes over a 120
m long rope bridge? Another classic: a trip up our local mountain,
the Allalin at 4,027 m a.s.l., which is easy for beginners to
tackle. Whatever your preference, there is something for everyone
with us.
Täschhorn 4,491 m a.s.l.
FEE GLACIER TOUR
This impressive tour over the Fee Glacier will not leave anyone
cold. It begins at the Spielboden mountain station. Equipped
with crampons, ski poles and a climbing harness attached to
the guide’s rope, you can climb safely up the Fee Glacier and
enter the magical world of glaciers. The tour takes 3-4 hours
and ends at Längfluh mountain station.
Information
saas-fee.ch/gletschertour
Check with the local mountain guide offices
to organise your adventure safely.
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JEGIHORN VIA FERRATA
The Jegihorn via ferrata is not only one of the most beautiful
via ferrata routes in Switzerland but also the highest in the
western Alps. A stunning landscape, little ironwork and plenty
of contact with the rock make this route a genuine climbing
pleasure for advanced mountaineers.
Around 400 picks (steps, handholds) and 5 ladders
along the route help the adventurous up to the summit. The
highlight is the 120 m long rope bridge that has to be crossed.
The altitude means that you may come across a few snowfields
on your descent in early summer, which have to be tackled
with care. The tour is only recommended when the weather
is completely settled.
Information
saas-fee.ch/klettersteige
ALLALIN - MY FIRST FOUR-
THOUSAND-METRE PEAK
Ever dreamt of standing on a four-thousand-metre peak?
The Allalinhorn makes it possible! The summit (4,027 m a.s.l.)
is regarded as one of the most impressive mountains in the
Saas Valley and is perfect for mountaineers who are new to
the sport. With a guide and good weather, the Allalin can be
conquered relatively “easily” with a little endurance and surefootedness.
Nevertheless, it is a 4,000 m summit – caution
and respect is therefore still the first commandment on the
mountain. The full tour takes about 4 hours.
Information
saas-fee.ch/meinersterviertausender
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World of Adventures
1: Allalin – Highlight
2: Längfluh – Glacier World
3: Spielboden – Home of marmots
4: Hannig – Mountain of sun
5: Kreuzboden – Family mountain
6: Hohsaas – Adrenalin & view
7: Furggstalden & Heidbodmen – Place to recover
8: Mattmark – Place to recharge
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2
3
4
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Family adventures
ADVENTURE LAND
KREUZBODEN
Kreuzboden is the perfect destination for a family excursion
full of experiences. The area offers a multitude of activities that
will delight both young and old. Children can look forward to
an exciting adventure playground with plenty of opportunities
to make interesting discoveries. Whether it’s crossing swaying
suspension bridges, racing down slides, tackling challenging
climbing walls and other climbing features or discovering the
crystal mine and the marmot caves – there is always something
new to experience. The water park also has some exciting
discoveries in store relating to all aspects of the element of
water. The facilities include a bike skills park for all ages, a picturesque
mountain lake with a ferry, monster scooters to race
around on and an attractive petting zoo.
Information
saas-fee.ch/kreuzboden
EXPERIENCE ADVENTURES
WITH EDDIE THE MARMOT
Our marmots are probably our sweetest village residents. They
enjoy feeding on nuts and carrots throughout the summer.
Explore Spielboden with the marmot trail or the Stafelwald
and you will probably come across the marmots. Spielboden
and the marmot trail can be reached by the five marmot
gondolas, which offer the opportunity to discover the adventures
of Eddie the Marmot.
Souvenir tip: The book about Eddie’s adventures is on sale in
the Saas-Fee tourist office or our online shop. The perfect gift
for our little adventurers!
Information
saas-fee.ch/murmeli
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TREASURE HUNT IN THE
LARCH FOREST OF
SAAS-ALMAGELL
On the hunt for clues together, the Furggstalden treasure hunt
becomes an exciting family adventure. The journey begins
with a comfortable chairlift which departs from Saas-Almagell.
The treasure hunt covers eight stations and requires the involvement
of every family member – the treasure can only be
revealed at the end through teamwork.
The best part: Your family finds out interesting things about
the environment in the forest of larch trees and gets a surprise
at the end!
Information
saas-fee.ch/schatzsuche
ROPE PARK SAAS-FEE
ADVENTURE FOREST
Plenty of climbing pleasures await the youngest adventurers
in Saas-Fee. The parcours circuit specially designed for children
in the rope park in Saas-Fee has this covered. Thanks
to the latest safety equipment, children from the age of 4 can
swing continuously from tree to tree easily. With 10 elements
and a zipline at the end, the adventure forest offers an unforgettable
experience.
Information
saas-fee.ch/abenteuerwald
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Top events
SAASFEESTIVAL
6 JULY – 9 AUGUST 2024
A relaxed atmosphere, a varied musical programme and a breathtaking
setting: from 6 July – 9 August 2024, the Saas Valley
will be turned into a giant open-air stage for the third time. Five
concerts promise some unforgettable experiences.
New: This year, the festival will be extended by four concerts.
The SaasFeestival Sessions give young and up-and-coming artists
a stage!
It all starts on Saturday, 6 July with the Family Day on
the Kreuzboden above Saas-Grund. A children’s programme
and musical entertainment by eifachBEN provide a lively introduction
in the family paradise at 2,500 m a.s.l. The highlight
of the festival is the three evenings on the village square in
Saas-Fee: Maryne, Bastian Baker, Debby, Zian, Dom Sweden
and Port Polar promise musical evenings with plenty of
dancing in the heart of the traffic-free village. The finale takes
place on 9 August at the village square in Saas-Almagell with
Fäaschtbänkler. The best part: all of the concerts are free
of charge!
Information
saasfeestival.ch
NOSTALGIC CULINARY MILE
8 SEPTEMBER 2024
Immerse yourself in the past and experience the life and gastronomy
of earlier times. Varied menus from "way back when"
await you, accompanied by exquisite wines from the Valais
region. "Historic" hoteliers and restaurateurs along the Village
Route in Saas-Fee invite you to experience culinary delights.
The wide range of delicious dishes and drinks are an invitation
to indulge yourself. Become part of this culinary paradise by
slipping into the clothes of your grandmother or great-grandfather
and immersing yourself completely in the unique atmosphere.
Information
saas-fee.ch/genussmeile
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MATTMARK MEMORIAL
HALF-MARATHON
14 SEPTEMBER 2024
The Mattmark Half-Marathon, known for its challenging 810 m
climb, takes place against a breathtaking backdrop. It starts
from the impressive round church in Saas-Balen. From there
the route winds through idyllic larch forests, past the charming
villages of Saas-Grund and Saas-Almagell, to the picturesque
hamlet of Zermeiggern. Here begins a historic route which
leads the runners through steeper sections and finally to the
imposing wall of the largest earth dam in Europe. The effort is
worthwhile, as the participants are rewarded with a spectacular
view of the turquoise waters of Lake Mattmark. A seven-kilometre
lap of the lake is the highlight and conclusion to the halfmarathon.
As an alternative to the total half-marathon distance,
there is also an eight-kilometre route around the lake and a
Nordic walking/fun category for which you can enrol.
Tip: For keen runners who are looking for additional challenges,
the Mattmark Half-Marathon is now offering two additional
categories: the "Weissmies Trail" over a distance of 30
kilometres and the "Mischabel Trail", which challenges even
experienced runners at 50 kilometres. These new trails are
an invitation to anyone who wants to put their endurance and
skill to the test on more challenging, longer routes.
Information
saas-fee.ch/mattmark-memorial
AUTUMN FESTIVAL
9 – 12 OCTOBER 2024
Over four days, the centre of Saas-Fee turns into a relaxed
festival mile offering fun and entertainment for young and old.
Various artists perform in a cheerful atmosphere and deliver a
colourful programme. There’s everything from play activities for
children to autumn culinary delicacies. The festival is topped
off by a range of activities and live music, providing plenty of
unforgettable experiences.
Information
saas-fee.ch/herbstfest
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ALPINE MULTI-DAY HIKE
An expedition for the adventurous: The Alpine multiday
hike from Saas-Fee to Domodossola in four days!
This newly designed Alpine route requires hiking experience
and leads through an impressive natural landscape. In four
stages, you pass through forests, overcome rocky paths, enjoy
the beauty of crystal-clear mountain lakes and reap the
rewards it with original Italian gelato, pizza or Aperol.
Created in cooperation with Brig Simplon Tourism, this
challenging multi-day tour promises an unforgettable experience
in the majestic mountains. It is essential that you are fit,
surefooted and already have experience in Alpine hiking before
you set off on this adventure!
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Stage 1: From Saas-Fee to the Almagelleralp: Your adventure
begins in traffic-free Saas-Fee and takes you up the Plattjen
massif, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view over
the Mischabel chain. If you are lucky, ibexes and chamois will
cross your path, as they like to spend the mornings on rocky
outcrops. The route takes you on to Saas-Almagell and then
up to the Almagelleralp, where a cosy atmosphere and culinary
delights await you in the mountain hut to reinvigorate you for
the coming day.
Stage 2: From the Almagelleralp to the Berggasthof Bord
Zwischbergen:
On the second day, a challenging ascent to the Zwischbergenpass
at almost 3,300 m a.s.l. awaits, where you are rewarded
with a spectacular panorama over the Saas four-thousand-metre
peaks and the Italian landscape. The descent takes you through
lunar landscapes to the Berggasthof Bord Zwischbergen, where
you can recover your strength with a well-earned meal and some
time to relax.
Stage 3: From the Berggasthaus Zwischbergen to Bognanco:
The route takes you on in the direction of Italy to the Passo
di Oriacca. On the way, you can marvel at the clear mountain
lakes and varied flora and fauna. When you arrive in Bognanco,
you can enjoy some Italian hospitality and relax as you ready
yourself for the last day.
Stage 4: From Bognanco to Domodossola: Although Domodossola
can be seen in the distance, the last day also passes
along an exciting route. On the Via Stockalper, you are walking
in the footsteps of historic traders and travellers. When you
arrive in Domodossola, you face a difficult choice: pizza, pasta,
gelato or an Aperol – treat yourself to your favourite.
To make your planning easier, we have put
together a package with Brig Simplon Tourism
that covers all the important services. Scan
the QR code and challenge yourself to an
adventure!
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Mischabel 18 traverse, Saas-Fee

Bouldering adventures
BOULDER GUIDE
Bouldering, the art of climbing low-height rocks and walls without
ropes, is more than just a sport; it’s a passion that brings
body and mind together, a game requiring a balance between
physical strength and mental strategy. In this guide, we present
you with some of the boulder routes in the Saas Valley for both
bouldering professionals and beginners who are daring to take
on the rocks for the first time.
Saas-Fee Kapellenweg Sector
The Kapellenweg Sector is an excellent location for boulder enthusiasts.
With its gentle rocks and level, grassy landing areas,
it is perfect for beginners or those who want to take the step
from indoor to outdoor bouldering.
Season: April – November
Number of boulder problems: approx. 50 boulders of III+ -
7a+/b, many V - 6a boulders
Please note: Some boulders are high, you will need a few crash
pads to climb over them. It is a child-friendly sector with a few
boulders for our younger visitors and easy boulder problems
for everyone.
More Information about Bouldering
in Saas-Fee/Saastal
Saas-Almagell Boulder Town
A real paradise for bouldering fans, with new challenges around
every corner.
Season: April – November
Number of boulder problems: About 80 boulder problems. Degree
of difficulty from III - 7b+. A few difficult rocks that are not
recommended for climbing.
Please note: Landings are usually good, but crash pads are
required and you should bring them along yourself.
Saas-Grund Sectors
One large sector, divided into four sub-sectors, awaits bouldering
fans in Saas-Grund. One of these areas is specially
designed for bouldering beginners. Thanks to its south-facing
location, this area dries up quickly after rainfall and in spring,
which makes it the ideal location for bouldering enthusiasts.
Season: March – November
Number of boulder problems: A total of around 110 problems
of various degrees of difficulty, divided into four sectors. The
“Private Parking” sector is ideal for beginners, with about 35
easier problems.
Please note: Good rock quality, landings are usually good, but
you will need a few crash pads.
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Adverts
FIND YOUR HOME WITH US
The Capra Hotel *****
The alpine 5* boutique lodge The Capra
combines timeless design and relaxed
chalet luxury. The colour scheme of the
38 spacious rooms and suites picks up
on the nuances of nature, creating an atmosphere
of warm comfort. The cozy library
invites you to relax and browse, and
the spa is the perfect place to unwind.
Sauna, steam bath, indoor and outdoor
pool and several relaxation areas make
doing nothing a luxury. The hotel's own
restaurant "Brasserie 1809" offers a modern
interpretation of traditional Alpine
cuisine. The immediate surroundings
serve as inspiration, local products and
wines are skillfully presented here.
Lomattenstrasse 6
3906 Saas-Fee
+41 27 958 13 58
welcome@capra.ch
capra.ch
Montela Hotel & Resort ****
"At home with us" - this is the motto of
our stylish and cosy apartments and
suites for your holiday. Centrally located
in the Saas-Fee/Saastal holiday
region, the unmistakable Montela service
leaves nothing to be desired. For a
good start to the day, breakfast is
already in the fridge and bread rolls are
delivered fresh to your accommodation
door every day. Don't feel like cooking?
With us, dinner is delivered directly
to your accommodation - we do the
washing up.
Tip for parents: round off your day in our
lounge and let the children let off steam
in our new "Indoor Playground".
Saastalstrasse 118
3910 Saas-Grund
+41 27 957 70 00
info@montela.ch
montela.ch
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Discover the variety of accommodations
in the Saas Valley!
21

Insidertip: biking in the Saas Valley
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06 July - 09 August 2024
Saas-Fee/Saastal
FÄASCHTBÄNKLER | BASTIAN BAKER
ZIAN | PORT POLAR
DOM SWEDEN | MARYNE | DEBBY
SaasFeestival Sessions: eifachBEN & other acts
Free entry
Presented by
Main Partner
Partner hotel
Local Partner
Powered by
24
saasfeestival.ch
saasfeestival.ch

Competition
SAAS QUIZ
How well do you know the Saas Valley? Take part in our quiz
and win 1x 2-night stays in a 4-star hotel in the Saas Valley!
Guess the solution word and submit your entry!
1. On a tour of the Fee Glacier, you have to beware of
"Chittu". What does the guide mean by this?
K) Marmots that will bite you
A) A crevasse in the glacier
D) Slipping on the ice
2. How long has the Metro Alpin been in existence?
C) Since 1999
D) Since 1984
L) Since 1973
3. What is a Cholera?
Q) It is a rare Alpine flying fish that is only found in the Saas
Valley. This astonishing creature has learnt to fly from
mountain to mountain. It is said that it yodels beautifully as
it moves over the summits!
V) A leek and potato cake, often made to use leftovers.
X) It is a wicker basket that used to be used to transport
materials in the mountains.
4. Which via ferrata in the Saas Valley crosses a rope
bridge 120 m in length?
R) Mittaghorn
T) Britannia
E) Jegihorn
5. What is the name of our charming mascot?
N) Eddie the Marmot
U) Thomas the Alpine Kangaroo
P) Rosalinde the Tiger Moth
6. Who is playing on the last evening of the SaasFeestival?
L) The Spice Girls
M) Bastian Baker
T) Die Fäaschtbänkler
7. Which anniversary is the Metro Alpin celebrating this
year?
U) 40 years
E) 50 years
O) 60 years
8. Which famous writer made his second home in Saas-
Fee?
S) Erich Kästner
R) Carl Zuckmayer
P) Rainer Maria Rilke
9. What is Saas-Fee/Saastal known as?
A) As a mountain location
I) A travel destination for an adrenalin rush
E) As the destination of adventures
Scan the QR code, enter the solution word
and take part!
The voucher cannot be used during high season, prizes cannot be paid out in cash and there is
no right of exchange. It is personal and non-transferable. No correspondence will be entered into
about the competition. Legal recourse is excluded. Closing date: 31 August 2024. The winner will
be notified by mail.
25

THE FASCINATION OF MOUN-
TAIN BIKES: INSIDER TIP
SAAS VALLEY
Travels on two wheels.
Text: Bernd Schmellenkamp
Upper Valais is perfect for biking and is regarded as an insider
tip among mountain bikers and a paradise for those who love
adventure. There is something new to discover in Kreuzboden-
Hohsaas, too, this year!
The area between Hohsaas at 3,200 metres and Saas-Grund at
1,553 metres in the valley could almost have been created for
varied, high-speed bike trails with its unique topography and
alpine character - a total of around 14 kilometres running past
mountain streams, lakes, over suspension bridges, through
dense larch forests and with the ubiquitous panoramic view
of 18 four-thousand-metre peaks. A new bike trail between the
Weissmieshütte and Kreuzboden is planned for summer 2024.
The section between Hohsaas and the Weissmieshütte is planned
for summer 2025.
Hohsaas - Kreuzboden - Saas-Grund bike trail:
A mountain bike Eldorado with a dreamy view
The bike trail in the Saas Valley also has perfect infrastructure:
you can reach Kreuzboden, a popular destination, and the
Hohsaas from Saas-Grund by the modern cable car in just a
few minutes. There is easy, affordable parking at the valley
station. The cable car station and therefore the Hohsaas-bike
trail are very well connected to local public transport to Visp
and then with Postbus 511 (Bergbahnen stop). This means that
mountain bikers have a route of 1,650 metres in altitude and 14
kilometres in length at their disposal, accessible by cable car.
The Saas Valley:
Gateway to the exciting world of mountain biking
With the completion of the Kreuzboden Bike Skills Park in
the summer of 2021, the opening of the new flow trail in 2022
and the continuation of the single trail to Saas-Grund in 2023,
the Saas Valley, and in particular the area opened up by the
Hohsaas cable cars, is experiencing strong development. The
Saas-Fee/Saas Valley region currently offers 80 kilometres
of mountain bike trails, ranging from leisurely e-bike tours to
adrenalin-fuelled descents on trails or flow trails. The latest
gem, completed for the 2024 summer season, is the Saas-Balen-Stalden
bike route, which is 11 kilometres long and has a
difference in altitude of 680 metres.
The service chain for two-wheelers is completed by
specialised repair and rental companies, accommodation for
bikers and transport of bikes by cable cars or PostBus.
According to Managing Director Reto Sporrer, the Saas-Fee
Guides „attach great importance to safety and environmental
awareness. We adhere strictly to the guidelines for sustainable
trail management and work closely with the local authorities to
protect the nature we love so much.“
The Saas-Fee Guides have been instrumental in the development
of the Kreuzboden bike trails and take care of the
annual maintenance.
„The special thing about the new bike path above Saas-
Grund is the high alpine terrain - a natural flow path. Designed
by BikePlan AG and built by the experts at Trailworks, the aim
was to integrate it into the terrain in such a way that you can't
tell it's there.“
Saas Valley Bike School:
„We see ourselves on two wheels.”
Saas Valley Bike School (“It’s all about your Skills”) gives keen
bikers the opportunity to experience the beauty and challenges
of the trails while teaching them how to use bikes.
With an experienced team and customised services, almost
any holidaymaker in Saas-Fee can learn to ride a mountain
bike.
The services offered by the guides include a multitude of
courses and tours led by certified instructors. Basic technical
courses for beginners help them to familiarise themselves with
the bike and ride the trails safely. Advanced riders can develop
their skills in specialist classes, which cover topics such as
riding technique, trail navigation and safety.
26

Biking adventures
From gentle beginners’ sections to challenging descents, the
new trail is a jewel for lovers of mountain biking. The Bike
School Guides are ready to accompany bike enthusiasts on
this exciting adventure and pass on tips and tricks for an unforgettable
riding experience.
Adrian Anthamatten, Technical Director at the Saas Valley
Bike School, is convinced of the appeal of cycling in Saas-
Grund and the surrounding area: „Through the Saas Valley
Bike School, our visitors can discover the Saas Valley in a
new way on two wheels. Our varied courses are designed to
introduce young and old to the fascination of mountain biking
or to improve their skills on two wheels.” According to the Director
of the Bike School, „it makes no difference whether you
are a beginner looking to dip your toe into mountain biking or
an expert who wants to work on the details: we can offer you
a great adventure.”
And the adventure in the Saas Valley goes on: Valais
- and with it the bike product in Saas-Fee/Saastal- will become
the Mecca of mountain biking as a sport when it hosts
the "2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships" between
30.08. and 14.09.2025.
A mountain biking adventure
with the Saas Valley Bike School
According to Christoph Venetz, Product Manager at the Saas
Valley Bike School, „summer tourism in the Saas Valley is becoming
increasingly important. And the summer is long. Too
long just to sit back and relax.“
The Saas Valley Bike School, which started successfully
in the summer of 2023, is thus extending its wide range
of existing courses to include experiences and adventures on
two wheels. „Biking as a sport”, says Venetz, „requires proper
training for young people – and those who have stayed
young.” Rinaldo Andenmatten, President of the Snow Sports
and Bike School Saas-Grund, says: „The Kids Bike League is
the summer programme of the Swiss ski schools. The lessons
are based on the snow sports programme. This creates a recognition
value and anchors our offers beyond the winter. In
the past, it was“, says Andenmatten, „after the winter season
is before the winter season. With the Saas Valley Bike School,
an extension of the snow sports school in Saas-Grund, we
can now offer our guests, young and old, a unique mountain
experience in the summer too. This means that after the winter
season is before the summer season!“
The team of the Saas Valley Bike school
All the details of the Saas Valley Bike
School are available online:
bikeschulesaastal.ch
More information about
biking in the Saas Valley
Recommended equipment:
- Bike in perfect working order
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Bell
- Suitable clothing for the weather (rainwear!)
- Drinks and snacks
- Navigation tool
27

Adverts
COME ENJOY WITH US !
IN THE VILLAGE ...
Discover Italian Highlights in
Saas-Fee: Pizzeria Del Ponte
Experience an all-day warm kitchen
with handmade pizza and pasta at Pizzeria
Del Ponte. Our doors are open from
morning till evening, ready to spoil you
with traditional Italian specialities.
Enjoy authentic flavours, freshly prepared
with love and passion in our cozy
restaurant or on the sunny terrace with a
view of the Alps.
Pizzeria Del Ponte – Your spot for genuine
Italian kitchen in Saas-Fee.
Dorfweg 1
3906 Saas-Fee
+41 27 958 19 00
info@walliserhof-saasfee.ch
walliserhof-saasfee.ch
28

Adverts
... AND ON THE MOUNTAIN
Mountain restaurant Alpenblick
Enjoy our renovated mountain restaurant
in the Hannig summer and winter hiking
area at an altitude of 2,030 m on the edge
of a gnarled larch-pine forest and halfway
between the Hannig mountain and Saas-
Fee.
You will love the beautiful sun terrace
with its marvellous view of the mountain
landscape and the rustic interior of our
Zuckmayer Stube. We will spoil you with
Swiss cuisine and delicious homemade
cakes.
Our small but cosy dormitory for groups
(min. 6 and max. 10 people) is ready to
welcome you if you want to enjoy the Saas
starry sky and a hearty breakfast the next
morning.
Hohneggweg 100
3906 Saas-Fee
+41 76 539 32 78
info@alpenblick-saasfee.ch
alpenblick-saasfee.ch
The Britannia Hut -
The grand dame of the Swiss alps
Would you like to spend the night at an
altitude of 3,030 m and feel completely at
home? That’s an option in one of the most
visited SAC huts in the Alps, the Britannia
Hut! The team around hut manager Dario
Andenmatten knows exactly how to make
guests happy. The hut is the starting
point for many mountain tours including
the Allalin, the Alphubel and many more,
but tourists who are spending the day
there can enjoy it too. With a white and
red hiking path, the hut is accessible to
all ages and is a popular destination!
How about a hike to the hut for a gourmet
lunch? Or spending a night in one
of the charming Alpine bedrooms before
tackling one of the four-thousand-metre
peaks the next day? Stop by and
experience new adventures!
The more adventurous should definitely
try out the via ferrata near the hut.
Britannia-Hütte SAC
3906 Saas-Fee
+41 27 957 22 88
info@britannia.ch
britannia.ch
Almageller Hut
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday
life and realise how good it feels to
be in unspoilt nature.
The Almageller Hut is located on the
south side of the Weissmies and is
the starting point for high mountain,
climbing and hiking tours as well as a
destination for day trips. Barren rocks,
rushing torrents, the blue sky, the clear
distant view over the Valais mountain
peaks, the fresh air and the healthy climate
provide the perfect setting for your
stay at the Almagellerhütte.
We look forward to your visit!
Dorfplatz 4
3905 Saas-Almagell
+41 27 957 11 79
info@almagellerhuette.ch
almagellerhuette.ch
29

30 18 4,000 m Peaks Themed Trail, Hohsaas

31

REACHING FOR THE SKY ON RAILS
The success story of the Metro Alpin Saas-Fee:
New trains for the 40th anniversary
Text: Bernd Schmellenkamp
The Metro Alpin takes you up to 3,500 m a.s.l. in Saas-Fee. The
Alpine underground railway on the Mittelallalin is the highest
underground funicular railway in the world. In 2024, this technical
icon of the high Alps is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The most important new technical developments for this
year's anniversary of the Metro Alpin, says Beat Senn, head
electrician of Saastal Bergbahnen AG, are „the ultra-modern
and comfortable carriages and completely new sliding doors,
which are replacing the previous gates and make it much easier
and faster to get on the train.”
In fact, the new procedure for getting on the trains at
the Metro Alpin stations on the Felskinn and Mittelallalin significantly
reduces the waiting times for visitors. The head electrician,
whose father was one of the workers involved in building
the railway, remembers it all well: „The opening of the Felskinn
mountain station at a height of 2,989 m, and then, in 1984, on
the Mittelallalin, were real innovations in Europe - a milestone
in cable car technology.” Building the tunnel high up in the Alps,
in particular, was “extremely difficult and a real spectacle” and
made heavy demands on the skills of the engineers and construction
workers. At that time, it was a technical challenge to
drill into the rock in the cold without the drilling water freezing.
Transporting the machines required for the construction work
up at 3,500 m a.s.l. was also extremely complicated. The highly
complex tunnel-cutting machine weighed over 100 tonnes alone
and first had to be broken down into individual parts and
then - after a spectacular transport hanging under the old Felskinn
cable car - had to be reassembled up on the mountain.
Metro Alpin: the underground to the ski slopes
For the 2024 summer season, there are now two new carriages
that commute between Felskinn and the Mittelallalin - the
journey from the valley station, which was completely renovated
in 2021, takes just three minutes. The new trains have seven
compartments instead of the previous five - and they are very
comfortable: the maximum of 95 passengers have more floor
space per person. The new carriages also have the latest suspension
technology and move much more quietly and smoothly.
Technical expert Beat Senn explains: „The highlight of
our complex technical system is the efficient drive system for
the entire railway, located in the mountain station. The drive
control system, the brake hydraulics and the emergency drive
have also been completely renewed.” The state-of-the art brake
system on the Metro Alpin trains makes travelling on the Alpine
underground railway even safer.
Metro Alpin: 40 years of the highest quality funicular railway
technology
Speaking of safety, in the 40 years of operation of the Metro Alpin,
there has never been a single accident. A fire alarm system
permanently extract the air, recirculates and analyses it – any
source of smoke would be noticed immediately. A fully automatic
extinguishing system ensures that any incipient fire would
be put out immediately in the worst-case scenario.
For Emmanuel Rossi from the management of Saastal
Bergbahnen AG, another development is important: „The ultra
modern monitoring methods that we use for the Metro Alpin
allowed us to introduce autonomous driving many years ago,
although there is always at least one specialist supervisor at
the valley and mountain stations.”
32

Das Nutzungsrecht dieser Design-Entwürfe ist bei Carvatech. Jede Weitergabe oder Veräußerung von Rechten
sowie die Ausweitung des Nutzungsumfanges oder -raumes erfordern eine gesonderte Vereinbarung.
Die Veröffentlichung von Christian Natschläger geschaffenen Werken ist nur mit dem Urhebervermerk
„design by christian natschlaeger“ gestattet. (§20 UrhG)
95-FUL SAAS-FEE FELSKINN
NATDESIGN.AT © CARVATECH | 2024
Eye-to-eye with the four-thousand-metre peaks in just
under three minutes
The operation of the Metro Alpin funicular railway is a 40-year
success story and has made a significant contribution to the
economic success of Saas-Fee as one of the most popular Alpine
destinations in the world. Back in the day - in 1984 - the
system was a pioneering achievement of funicular railway technology,
and a new era of ski tourism dawned in the Saas Valley,
as the Saas-Fee skiing area enjoyed more reliable snow thanks
to the development of the glacier. "Through the mountain - into
the new age of skiing" was the apt slogan at the time.
The construction work began in September 1981 and
three years later, on 19 December 1984, the opening ceremony
for the Metro Alpin was held. Today, the underground railway is
Saas-Fees' most important and efficient way of bringing people
to the all-year-round skiing area of the Saas Valley, the second
largest in the Alps.
Metro Alpin: 40 years of innovation and safety
The Metro Alpin is a funicular railway that runs completely underground.
The circular tunnel is 1749 metres long and overcomes
a height difference of 466 metres. The incline in the bottom
section of the tunnel pipe is as large as 48.2%, while in the
upper half it is a constant 33%.
The Restaurant on the north slope of the Allalinhorn at
3,500 m a.s.l. is the highest revolving restaurant in the world,
has 200 covers and rotates 360 degrees once every hour. The
fantastic view alone makes the journey worthwhile - here in the
mountain and glacier world of the Alps of Upper Valais, you can
almost reach out and touch the mountain giants.
The Mittelallalin is a secondary summit of the Allalinhorn
(at 4,027 m a.s.l. one of the 13 four-thousand-metre peaks of
Saas-Fee) and is the centre of the famous skiing area on the
Fee Glacier.
The Fee Glacier, which is 6 kilometres long, covers an area of
13.8 km² and extends over an altitude range of 4,200 to 2,600
metres a.s.l.. The giant glacier has its origin in the steep eastern
edge of the Mischabel group. At the height of the Little Ice Age
in the middle of the 19th century, the Fee Glacier reached the
bottom of the valley behind Saas-Fee.
In the summer months, the Mittelallalin serves as the
starting point for various high-altitude tours for mountaineers
from around the world. The Allalin and the Alphubel in particular
are relatively easy to climb thanks to the short ascent time
with the Metro Alpin.
Emmanuel Rossi enthuses when he is asked to describe
the fascination of the Metro Alpin: „The view from then Mittelallalin
is stupendous. The unique panorama extends to the Bernese
and Grisons Alps - in good visibility as far as Milan. The
incredible vista is always a very special experience for me.”
And here is the ultimate event tip for all visitors this
summer: travel up into the world of the four-thousand-metre
peaks of Saas-Fee on the new Metro Alpin at sunrise. Leave
the village center early in the morning for Felskinn and then up
to the Mittelallalin. Breakfast will be waiting for you in a unique
atmosphere of total peace at an altitude of 3,500 m - surrounded
by 13 peaks over four thousand metres in height.
What is the vision of Saastal Bergbahnen for the Mittelallain?
What will the destination be like in ten years time? For
Emmanuel Rossi, the funicular railways remain „the economic
drivers in Saas-Fee.” The great task of the future, however, will
be to master the challenge of climate change. But Rossi remains
calm about Saas-Fee: „Our glacier village at an altitude
of 1,800 m a.s.l., with ski areas up to almost 3,600 m a.s.l., will
have guaranteed snow for many years to come, simply because
of its altitude.”
33

Hiking adventures
Hiking is more than just a walk in nature – it is a journey that
invigorates the body, calms the mind and feeds the soul. On
our hikes, we encounter the variety of life in all its forms –
from little Alpine blooms that force their way bravely through
a crack in the rocks to the far horizon that opens up from the
summit of a mountain. Whether you are an experienced professional
or have only just discovered the love of hiking, every
tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and
peace of nature.
MISCHABEL HUT TRAIL
One of the most challenging hikes, but one that offers the reward
of a breathtaking view of the four-thousand-metre peaks
and Saas-Fee.
The hike begins in the picturesque Stafelwald, where
you will catch a glimpse of the characteristic Saas marmots
if you are lucky. Taking the path in a south-westerly direction
and crossing the Triftbach torrent, the trail suddenly climbs
quickly, winding upwards in a zigzag.
The real challenge begins at the Schönegga (by the
way, you can also take the new Hannigbahn railway up to
this point and shorten the ascent), where the climb to the
Mischabelhütte sets in. From this point on, the path is marked
in blue and white. The rest of the climb follows a ridge which
leads continuously upwards. Crossing areas of scree, you first
ascend the Lower Distelhorn, then the Upper Distelhorn. The
path ends in a rocky crag which is equipped with chains and
ropes for additional safety. You arrive at the Mischabelhütte
via a narrow ridge, several metal steps and a ladder. The recently
created access route to the hut represents a unique
mixture because of its challenges, making it difficult to classify
simply as a hiking trail or via ferrata.
Duration:
Distance:
Ascent:
approx. 4 h
5,1 km
1,539 m
Please note: The trail to the Mischabelhütte is
challenging and only suitable for experienced hikers.
IBEX PATH
The path via the Mällig to the idyllic Bider area, then through
the larch forest back to Saas-Fee, is a popular hiking trail and
a great tip for lovers of flora and fauna. This area is particularly
popular with ibexes, which like to graze here.
The hike begins at the valley station of the Hannig cable
car. You have a choice between taking on the climb to the
mountain station on foot or making the most of the comforts
of the new Hannig cable car. From there, the Steinwild path
leads you along Forststrasse in the direction of the Mällig
(2700 m above sea level). From the top, a breathtaking view
opens up over the Saas Valley and its majestic four-thousandmetre
peaks. The route takes you from an agreeably level path
to a point 2604 m above sea level past the Gebidum. From this
point, the path is predominantly a steep descent and feeds
into the Saas-Fee - Grächen high-altitude trail.
The last section of the route is comfortable with a slight
descent, leading past the mystical Senggbodu and the impressive
Bärufalla back to Saas-Fee. The name of the route
comes from the ibexes that live here and, if you keep quiet and
have a little luck, you will be able to observe and take a photo
of them up close. The alternation between the dense larch
forests and the open rocky landscape is particularly beautiful
and makes this hike an unforgettable experience.
Duration:
Distance:
Ascent:
Descent:
approx. 4 h
9 km
424 m
951 m
34

MATTMARK CIRCULAR TRAIL
A beach feeling in the heart of the mountains! Enjoy the views
of Lake Mattmark and the biggest earth dam in Europe on
this easy hike. This path is also very popular with bikers and
joggers.
The hike starts from the Restaurant Mattmark by the
reservoir wall. First, you go through the pedestrian tunnel on
the right side of the lake.
At the end of the reservoir is the Dischtelalp, from
which the Tour Monte Rosa leads over the Monte Moro Pass
(Golden Madonna) towards Macugnaga. From the Dischtelalp,
the circuit leads along a narrower path on the left side of the
lake back to the dam.
The reservoir, which went into service in 1969, hides
some historical stories and dramatic legends in its waters. You
can discover some of them in the exhibition in the restaurant.
Duration:
Distance:
Ascent:
Descent
approx. 2.5 h
8 km
110 m
110 m
VALLEY TRAIL SAAS -
EISTEN - STALDEN
Experience hiking as it was for our ancestors! Your trip along
the valley trail begins in the idyllic village of Saas-Balen. From
here, your route first takes you via Niedergut, where you cross
the road to the Saas Valley water treatment works. The route
continues along an asphalt road, accompanied by the river's
roar with the cantonal road in sight, until you come across a
flatter trail in the hamlet of “Ze Briggeltinu”.
After crossing the side of the valley in Ahorn, you continue
along the asphalt road to the hamlet of “Zen Eisten”.
Through the village of Eisten and the hamlet of “Raftgartu”, you
follow a carefully renovated path that winds its way below
the cantonal road. Past the hamlet of “Resti”, your walk takes
you through picturesque forests and characteristic hamlets
to the “Chinegga” bridge. The last stage of your route takes
you along the “Bielmatte” road and, after crossing the railway,
brings you to the destination of your hike, Stalden-Saas station
in Stalden.
Duration:
Distance:
Ascent:
Descent:
3.1 h
11.4 km
19 m
710 m
35

Recipe
CHOLERA
Don’t be put off by the name; for us, Cholera is not a disease
but a tasty dish that warms the heart and soul. Originally
conceived as a way of using leftovers, Cholera is very popular
now.
And by the way: If you don’t like cooking, you can try out
Cholera and many other traditional dishes in a unique atmosphere
along the nostalgic culinary mile in Saas-Fee (8 September
2024)!
Ingredients:
- 300 g puff pastry
- 200 g potatoes
- 350g leek
- 1 apple
- 100 g Raclette cheese, cut into slices
- A little butter
- 1 egg yolk
- You will also need: 1 cake tin
Preparation
First, boil the potatoes in salted water until they are almost
soft; allow them to cool down and slice. Peel the apple, cut it,
and leek into pieces and sweat them briefly in a bit of butter,
then excellent. Roll out two-thirds of the pastry to a thickness
of 2 mm and line a greased cake tin with it.
Roll out the remaining pastry to serve as a lid. Mix the leek,
apple, and potato slices, evenly spread half of the mixture in
the tin, and cover it with the Raclette cheese. Spread the rest
of the mixture on top. Fold the edges of the pastry, brush
with the egg yolk, and cover it with the lid you have prepared.
Press the edges together firmly, brush the surface of the pastry
with the egg yolk, decorate it with fork marks and make a
hole in it. Bake it in a preheated oven at 200 °C for 35 to 40 minutes.
Cut the pie out of the tin into pieces of the required size.
Information
saas-fee.ch/rezepte
36

saas-fee.ch/genussmeile
8 September 2024 | Saas-Fee
37

AUTUMN IN THE SAAS VALLEY – SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND!
Autumn, a time of transience. As the needles slowly
transform into a sea of yellow and orange, an entirely
new world is uncovered which could not be more
breathtaking.
Text: Laila Zurbriggen
So you found the highest mushroom in Europe? What did
it look like?
Yes, I did. It was very small, a liberty cap. I was able to identify
it under the microscope by analysing the spores. And that was
at 3,445 m a.s.l.. In Saas-Fee, we also have one of the highest
flowering plants, on the Dom, the double-flowered saxifrage,
which grows at over 4 000 m a.s.l..
That’s really interesting. So when is the best time to collect
mushrooms?
Exactly. It starts in summer, but the absolute best time is
autumn, so from September. If the weather is right, the mushrooms
appear earlier of course, sometimes as early as May,
when the snow melts.
What weather do mushrooms particularly like?
It has to rain a lot, but also be very warm in between.
The metamorphosis that the Saas Valley undergoes is simultaneously
an invitation to look at the world around you with
different eyes. But just as everything else is slowly dying back,
an entirely new world comes to life. Mushrooms. Eugen "Geni"
Christen has been a passionate mushroom forager ever since
he was a child, and he is also a certified mushroom inspector.
The Chair of the Upper Valais Mushroom Association explains
what fascinates him so much about mushrooms and offers
tips for collecting mushrooms that even beginners can follow.
Hi Geni, thank you for spending some time with us. Tell
us how your passion for mushrooms came about.
Thank you, yes of course. My father was a mushroom inspector
and I found it fascinating as a child to see people bringing
in mushrooms. My father would then tell them which they
could eat and which they could not. And since then, that fascination
has never left me. I then studied the subject myself,
took the exam to become a mushroom inspector and passed
it. So whenever visitors find mushrooms, they can call me and
make an appointment with me to classify the mushrooms that
they bring in.
And what are the most common edible mushrooms in
Saas-Fee?
Above all, it's the mushrooms that grow on larch trees. Mushrooms
are usually in symbiosis with trees and these mushrooms,
the suillus mushrooms, you find a lot of them because,
of course, we have a lot of larch trees. There are four types
of Suillus mushrooms here that are brought in for inspection
most commonly and they are also edible. They are the grey
larch suillus, the rust red-larch suillus, the yellow-edged larch
suillus and the gold suillus. Then we also have a large number
of ceps, more precisely pine ceps. They only grow on twinneedle
pin trees, but not on Swiss stone pines, which have 5
needles.
When people bring mushrooms in to be checked, do you
have to throw many away?
Yes, that does happen. The worst is if people bring the mushrooms
in plastic bags. If there is a poisonous mushroom
among them, you have to confiscate all the mushrooms be-
And you do that free of charge?
Exactly, it doesn’t cost a penny. Of course, it’s interesting for
me to see what people have collected. I sometimes see mushrooms
that I have never seen here before and then I can ask
them where they found them and take a look for myself.
That’s exciting. We are quite high up in Saas-Fee at an
altitude of 1800 metres. Are there any mushrooms this
high up?
Yes, of course. We also classify mushrooms according to altitude:
at 1,600 m a.s.l. we use the term Sub-Alpine mushrooms,
from 2,100 m a.s.l. we have Alpine mushrooms. And then there
are Nivali mushrooms above 3,000 m a.s.l..
And you really find mushrooms at this altitude?
Yes, I found one that is considered the highest mushroom in
Europe.
38

Autumn adventures
cause the edible mushrooms will also have become poisonous
because the poisonous mushroom protein breaks down as it
sweats in the plastic bag. It’s therefore best to separate the
mushrooms by species, especially if you are unsure whether
the mushrooms you have collected are edible.
What is your essential equipment for collecting mushrooms?
(laughs) You don’t need much. The most important things are
good shoes, a rain jacket, a knife and a basket or cloth bag to
collect them in.
And what’s the best way to collect the mushrooms?
If you are absolutely sure that the mushroom is edible, simply
cut it off. But if you are unsure and want to bring the mushroom
in to be checked, the whole mushroom with its stem
You have been collecting mushrooms for over 50 years.
What was your best experience?
Certainly one great experience was finding the highest mushroom
in Europe. It is likely to be included in the Guinness
Book of Records. Another good experience was finding a mushroom
in Saas-Fee about 10 years ago which still has not
been identified. I found it 10 years ago, then saw it again two
years later, but I haven’t seen it since then. I dried the mushroom
and sent it to the experts because I couldn’t identify
it myself. It is currently with a professor in Spain, but it’s probably
a new variety of mushroom. If it still cannot be identified,
it’s likely to be named after me. That’s cool (laughs).
That really is cool. Thank you for your time and your valuable
insights.
should be twisted out of the ground. Especially with poisonous
mushrooms, many that are identified most easily by the
volva or other features at the bottom of the stem. If the mushroom
is cut off above the volva, I usually have to examine it
under a microscope because it is impossible to identify it for
certain in any other way. Ceps, for example, have a doppelganger,
the bitter bolete. You can do a taste test with that by
putting a small piece in your mouth. If it has a mild taste, it’s a
cep. But if it tastes bitter, you notice it straight away and spit
it out because it’s a bitter bolete.
But are they poisonous?
No. You should not eat them, that’s for sure, but nothing will
happen to you with such a small piece. But you should only
carry out a taste test like this if you are absolutely sure that it
is not a highly toxic mushroom.
What tips and tricks could you pass on to beginners who
want to start collecting mushrooms?
Ideally, of course, you should go foraging with an expert, as
that’s when you will learn the most. But if you prefer to go
out on your own, it’s best to limit yourself to one species at
first, the suillus that grow on larch trees for example. Or field
mushrooms, such as field champignons. And it’s really important
that you take the mushrooms to a mushroom inspector, of
course, if you want to be absolutely sure that they are edible.
And what’s the best way to look after the environment as
you are foraging?
You shouldn’t just trample around in the forest. You should
keep to the paths and only move away from them a maximum
of 10 metres, I'd say.
Hiking in autumn paradise
Despite the cooler weather, the Saas Valley remains a paradise
for hikers. The clearly defined pathways lead through
colourful forests, past rushing streams and offer stunning
views of the autumn colours of the landscape. This time of
year offers a unique opportunity to experience nature in its full
glory and complete peace. Whether on gentle paths for pleasure
walkers or challenging routes for experienced mountaineers,
the autumn beauty of Saas Valley can be experienced
directly and intensely on foot.)
Discover autumn in
the Saas Valley
39

Adverts
RELAX WITH US
wellnessHostel4000
Aqua Allalin – recreation and sport at
1,900 m 2
Peace and serenity for body and mind
determine the ambience in the wellness
area; saunas, steam bath, navel stone
and more invite you to spend many a
relaxing hour in a top-notch wellness
environment. Let the panoramic view of
the surrounding mountains inspire you
to new thoughts.
Sport and fun play are the order of the day
in the indoor pool. Whether it’s training
in the 25-metre pool, regeneration in the
whirlpool and on the outdoor terrace, or
family fun in the children’s pool and on
the adventure slide – this is the place
to be active. An extensive massage and
wellness programme, as well as beauty
treatments, round off the offer. You can
enjoy all this at wellnessHostel4000
whether you book a double, family or
multibed room.
Panoramastrasse 1
3906 Saas-Fee
+41 27 958 50 50
wellnesshostel4000@youthhostel.ch
Wellness Spa Pirmin Zurbriggen****S
LoftSuite*****
Monte-Moro***
In the three hotels, the stage is set
for the experience and enjoyment of
holidays that are so in demand today.
Pure relaxation in natural surroundings,
enjoyment and well-being in an informal
atmosphere that harmonises body and
soul - that is the motto with which the
hotelier family makes their guests happy.
Saas-Almagell at 1,672 m a.s.l., surrounded
by a dreamlike mountain world
with 18 four-thousand-metre peaks. A
southern climate - plenty of sunshine,
pleasant temperatures. Ideal for Alpine
Wellness with 1'700m 2 ! But the most
important factor is the Zurbriggen team,
in particularly the managing directors
Esther and Fabian Zurbriggen. They guarantee
familiar moments of well-being
and cosiness in a unique ambience.
New at Monte-Moro:
Rösti and Cordon Bleu Hüs Restaurant.
Furusandstrasse
3905 Saas-Almagell
+41 27 957 10 12
loftsuite.ch
monte-moro.ch
wellnesshotel-zurbriggen.ch
pirmin.zurbriggen@rhone.ch
40

Bad weather
activities
Even if the sun occasionally fails to shine on us, our destination
of adventures still has plenty to offer. Discover our options
for bad weather, with plenty of fun activities even if it’s raining!
Discover more bad weather
activities
MICRO-BOWLING:
Fun on a small scale
Micro-bowling takes conventional bowling
fun and packs it into a charming,
compact format to entertain players of
all ages. In this miniature version of traditional
bowling, the aim is to knock over
smaller pins with proportionately smaller
balls. The game retains the basic rules
and spirit of bowling but offers a unique,
easily accessible and often amusing experience.
Please note:
Available on request
Locations:
Saas-Almagell:
Wellnesshotel Pirmin Zurbriggen
+41 27 957 23 01
pirmin.zurbriggen@rhone.ch
Saas-Fee:
Haus Lehnhof
+41 27 957 10 52
info@hauslehnhof.ch
(out of school holidays, closed on Thursdays)
YOGA
Looking for some relaxation? Yoga is
good for the body and soul! There are
plenty of opportunities to join in here in
Saas-Fee/Saastal.
Further information
saas-fee.ch/yoga
CULTURE: Saas Museum and
Sonnenhalde Cultural Centre
The Saas Museum has been housed in
the old rectory since 1983. It was renovated
from the ground up last year to
mark its anniversary and now offers a
fascinating exhibition on the history of
Saas-Fee and the Saas Valley. In the
new Sonnenhalde Cultural Centre, you
are treading in the footsteps of Father
Johann Josef Imseng, the pioneer of tourism,
as you discover interesting details
about the origins of tourism in the Saas
Valley. Thanks to an innovative entry
system, the museums are open every
day.
Saas Museum
Location: Saas-Fee | Dorfstrasse 6
Opening hours: daily, 08:00 – 19:00
Sonnenhalde Cultural Centre
Location: Saas-Grund | Haus Sonnenhalde
Opening hours: daily, 08:30 - 20:30
41

THE ADVENTURE STARTS WITH THE PLANNING
The best adventures require good preparation.
Booking accommodation, planning excursions,
reserving a table in an excellent restaurant, looking
for events and activities that are being held during
your stay: anticipation is the greatest pleasure.
Trip Planner – the right adventure!
With our trip planner you can get some inspiration and find
the adventure that suits you best.
saas-fee.ch/tripplanner
Book accommodation online
55 hotels and many holiday homes: find and book your ideal
accommodation directly.
saas-fee.ch/shop
Saas-Fee/Saastal Guide – The web app
Finding current and relevant information quickly is crucially
important for detailed planning during your stay or when you
are looking for inspiration for outdoor activities. Set up the
Saas-Fee/Saastal Guide and keep up to date in real-time.
saas-fee.ch/guide
42

Get your sneakers out!
Love the mountains...
let PostBus take you there.
Numerous destinations to discover
in Valais and the cantons of Vaud,
Fribourg and Neuchâtel.
Rethink how you roll
postbus.ch/excursion-tips
43

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#keeponexploring