Bettmeralp & Riederalp

A dream like no other. Winter wonderland and a Swiss chalet, I don't think it gets much better. I might just need to purchase a chalet in Bettmeralp now.

We arrived in Bettmeralp mid-afternoon, greeted by the sight of fresh snow blanketing the landscape. The village, perched on a sunny plateau at an elevation of 1,970 meters, exuded a timeless charm that instantly captivated us. With neighboring Reideralp, these mountain villages are more than just picturesque; they're part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their natural beauty and cultural significance. These villages feature traditional architecture, alpine farming practices, and a rich history of mountaineering.

Chalet Tannenduft, our cozy abode for the weekend, embodied the quintessential Swiss charm. The Chalet seamlessly integrates with nature, nestled among the snowy forests and perched on the hillside, providing breathtaking views and a serene connection to the surrounding landscape. With rustic wooden finishes and festive Christmas decorations, it was a haven of warmth and comfort amidst the mountainous landscape. As we settled in by the crackling wood fire, we felt embraced by the traditions and heritage of the Alps.

The next morning, we ventured out with our snowshoes, eager to explore the wonders of the region. Our first stop was Bettmersee, a tranquil alpine lake approximately 1.2 kilometres long, framed by snow-covered trees. Beyond the lake, we spotted chamois gracefully navigating the fresh snow—a testament to the abundant wildlife that calls these mountains home.

Continuing our journey towards Moosefluh, we hoped to catch a glimpse of the grand Aletsch Glacier. However, the high avalanche risk prompted us to err on the side of caution and make our way down to Reideralp. The Matterhorn in the distance, and its snow-capped peak staring at us we descend a couple hundred metres towards Reideralp.

Arriving in Reideralp, we continued along another snowshoe trail that led us around the charming village. We paused at a local restaurant for a well-deserved beer on the patio. As we savored the stunning valley views, we were treated to a mesmerizing sight—a "sun dog" phenomenon, When sunlight dances through ice crystals in the atmosphere, it creates a breathtaking display of multiple rainbows encircling the sun. These ethereal arcs, paint the sky with a mesmerizing palette of colors.

As the sun set behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the landscape, we retreated to our chalet for the evening. We walked back along the famous Aletsch Promenade, stunning to say the least. We arrived back at the chalet shortly before sundown and quickly winded down by the fire. With a glass of red wine in hand, we looked out at the starry sky, grateful for the perfect day spent amidst the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

The following morning, we bid farewell to Bettmeralp and Reideralp, carrying with us memories of a truly magical weekend. Thanks to the timeless charm of these mountain villages and the natural wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, our time spent here will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Bettmeralp

Buy Now