Passes Grimsel
The Grimsel Pass is a high-alpine mountain road connecting the cantons of Bern and Valais, winding through a landscape of granite peaks, glacial lakes, and hydroelectric dams. At 2,164 meters, it offers dramatic scenery and engineering marvels like the Grimselsee and Oberaarsee reservoirs. Ideal for scenic drives, photography, and short hikes, the Grimsel is a favorite among nature lovers and road-trippers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic viewpoints, alpine flowers, and even spot marmots. Whether you’re crossing by car or pausing at the historic Grimsel Hospiz, this mountain pass delivers a truly memorable alpine experience.
The Grimsel Pass is one of Switzerland’s most iconic high-mountain roads, connecting the Haslital in the canton of Bern with Goms in the canton of Valais. At 2,164 meters above sea level, the pass road winds its way through a wild, dramatic landscape shaped by glaciers, rock, and water. With its sweeping curves, crystal-clear reservoirs, and stark granite cliffs, the Grimsel offers a raw and unforgettable mountain experience.
The area is particularly known for its hydroelectric infrastructure, including the striking Grimselsee and Oberaarsee reservoirs. These lakes, built in the mid-20th century, are surrounded by peaks and glaciers, giving visitors the feeling of being in an open-air museum of natural forces and human ingenuity. The Oberaarsee, reachable via a narrow side road and tunnel, is a hidden gem offering views of the Oberaar Glacier.
One of the cultural highlights is the Grimsel Hospiz, a historic mountain hotel perched on a granite ridge between two lakes. Once a refuge for travelers crossing the pass, it now offers food, lodging, and one of the best viewpoints in the region.
Hikers will find trails that lead through alpine meadows and along the dam walls, with educational signs about geology, flora, and hydropower. The area is also home to ibex, marmots, and rare alpine plants.
Due to heavy snow, the Grimsel Pass is usually open only from June to October, but during that time it’s one of the most scenic drives in Switzerland—perfect for photographers, hikers, or anyone who loves vast, untamed mountain scenery.
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