Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Bernese Alps, Kanderstag is a high-altitude village that provides a setting for both summer and winter pursuits. Traditional wooden chalets line its atmospheric streets while impressive views of the Blümlisalp Massif are on offer from its hiking and cross-country skiing trails.
Things to do in Kandersteg
An extensive network of hiking trails traverses the Kander Valley, with some of the most spectacular taking in the 2,270-metre-high Gemmi Pass. Alternatively, you can trek through the magnificent Gastern Valley and over the 2,690-metre-high Lötschen Pass or test your skills on the Allmenalp via Ferrata, which is considered one of the most impressive in the Bernese Alps.
To explore part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn UNESCO World Heritage Site, jump aboard the cable car that leads to the turquoise waters of Lake Oeschinen. In addition to hiking along its shores, you can fish for Arctic char, lake and rainbow trout or go ice skating when the lake freezes over in the winter months.
Kandersteg enjoys easy access to around 50 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails, which wind their way along the valley floor and across the sun-drenched terraces. Downhill skiers can test their skills on the slopes of Sunnbüel while ice climbers can take on the Kander Valley’s challenging routes. Green thumbs shouldn’t miss a visit to the historic Ruedihus guest house, which features an alpine garden where herbs native to the Bernese Alps are showcased.
Getting around Kandersteg
Kandersteg is around an hour’s drive from Bern and 45 minutes from Bern Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect along the Lötschberg line to the Kandersteg railway station and the village is small enough to explore on foot.