The beautiful Saas Valley, with its incredible views of four-thousand-metre peaks and glaciers, ski slopes at dizzying heights and numerous hiking trails, delights at first sight.

In its upper part lies the village of Saas Fee. It is the largest and also the most frequented village in the valley. Other well-known but more peaceful villages are Saas Grund and Saas Almagell. I have to say that even in low season, public transport between these villages was very good.

By gondola to Kreuzboden station

The route I propose starts at Kreuzboden station (2’398m), which can be reached by the Hohsaas gondola train from the village of Saas Grund.

The first section is hiked along the Alpine Flower Promenade. More than 200 species of plants are said to grow there. Unfortunately, in October I only saw most of them on the information boards along the route. Nevertheless, the pine trees growing at an altitude of 2’500 m a.s.l. aroused my admiration.

Incredible views of the four-thousand-metre peaks

The glaciated Mischabel and Allalin mountain ranges, which surround the Saastal valley, are also perfectly visible on this section. On the other hand, at the point where the trail crosses the Triftgrätji ridge, the view of the dam and the Mattmark reservoir is gradually revealed.

Further on, the trail leads to the picturesque Almagellertal valley, where a small mountain hotel stands alone in the midst of the mountains. This is also where exactly half of this route runs.

The final leg of the route

Then, with the sound of the river Leebach, you descend down towards the buildings. The return route runs above the road on green, wooded paths. If fatigue catches up with you beforehand, you can descend to the main road and wait for the bus.

Finally, the route does not require much physical exertion. Be warned, however, that the paths are narrow and the slopes steep. The area is also at risk of stone slides. Therefore, you need to be particularly careful and watch your step.