ViaSbrinz, Stage 4/5

Across the legendary Grimselpass on the historic mule track, passing some spectacular structures from early trading times. The hike leads through impressive mountain landscape, shaped and milled by the Aare Glacier and now used to produce hydroelectricity.

From the Guttannen, Dorf bus stop, the mountain trail heads up the valley. After initial sections through woodland, open slopes and the long ascent set the tone for the day. The route passes directly by Alprestaurant Handeck before the Grimsel region becomes increasingly barren.

At Räterichsbodensee, the water draws close to the trail. Soon afterwards, the route runs right alongside Grimselsee, the largest of the neighbouring reservoirs. Between expanses of water and rocky terrain, the mountain trail continues to climb towards the Grimsel Pass. Nearby Totesee lies on the European watershed between the North Sea and the Mediterranean.

Shortly afterwards, near the Sidelhorn, the hike reaches its highest point at just over 2,200 metres. The long descent into the Obergoms initially crosses open pastures, then passes through woodland, with the final few kilometres following an easier hiking trail. After around 24 kilometres and just over eight hours, the hike ends in Obergesteln, only a few steps from the bus stop of the same name.