A winter without snow just isn't fun. Simply boring, isn't it? I come from an area where it doesn't snow much. When it's properly cold, it's alright. At least then you have a reason to make yourself a coffee and eat a piece of cake after a walk through the woods and fields. But a day in the snow with a blue sky, and even better, with a clear view, creates such a feeling of inner peace that you can draw on for a long time. Then the cake tastes even better.

From Riederalp to Bettmeralp

For a short break, the mountains are the perfect destination in winter. The Aletsch Arena offers a vast area that is also ideal for walking. It's approximately 9 km from Riederalp to Fiescheralp, with Bettmeralp situated between these two alpine pastures. This provides a wide variety of options for walking or hiking. For example, the connecting path between Riederalp and Bettmeralp is a feast for the eyes with its chalets and views of the winter mountain landscape. After just under an hour, you'll reach the center of the other alpine village.

Lake Bettmersee on the Bettmeralp

On Bettmeralp, stroll through the village towards the Bachtla sports center. Shortly before the Walliser Stuba restaurant, follow the snowshoe trail to the left towards Lake Bettmersee. Lake Bettmersee is not used for ice skating. Instead, there's a natural ice rink below the lake, operated by the Bachtla sports center. The walk to the lake takes about half an hour from the Bettmeralp mountain station. You can walk around Lake Bettmersee or turn left back towards Riederalp. Simply continue following the ascending winter hiking trail. We took the liberty of crossing the ski slope at the Gletschi sculpture to rejoin the winter hiking trail behind the Blausee middle station. You'll need to cross the ski slope again to reach the descending path towards Riederalp behind the Golmen lift. The entire route from Riederalp to Lake Bettmersee and back takes about two hours.

Stop at the Matterhorn restaurant on the Riederalp

The Matterhorn restaurant on the Riederalp, by the ski lift, serves hot and cold dishes and regularly features live music. The sun terrace was packed on our leisurely outing. Of course, we had cappuccino and a slice of apricot tart with cream. All the other guests seemed to enjoy their lunch as well.

Durchschnüüfe und Sunna g’niesse!