Swiss Tour Monte Rosa, Stage 1/3

A challenging high-altitude trail between Saas-Fee and Grächen, which is very exposed in parts as it runs across the steep faces of the Balfrin group. There are dizzying views down into the Saas Valley, and the Fletschhorn, Lagginhorn and Weissmies panorama is incredible.

From the bus terminal in Saas-Fee, the route initially leads through the village before soon climbing past Alp-Hitta. After this gentle start, the long section on the white-red-white marked mountain trail begins. Open meadows and pastures alternate with stretches of forest and increasingly rocky terrain. The constant ascents and descents over a total of 20 kilometres and a good seven and a half hours require considerable stamina.

After around 13 kilometres, the route reaches its highest point at just under 2,400 m. The mountain trail then continues across the barren slopes before beginning the long descent. The terrain becomes gentler again at Hannigalp, where the small chapel stands directly beside the route. A broader hiking trail leads downhill through forest and pastures. Shortly before Grächen, the route passes directly by the small lake Zum See and the restaurant of the same name. The village is reached a little later, with the Grächen, Zentrum bus stop close to the endpoint.