Swiss Indian summer - the most beautiful hikes

Autumn hikes through the larch forests of the Lötschental? Unforgettable. For example, on the Lötschental Legend Trail from Lauchernalp to Fafleralp, which takes hikers into the world of myths and legends of the region. Or a hike to the Jungfrau-Aletsch region, which was declared the first Alpine UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Even the shortest route conveys the full fascination of the world of ice in just a few hours. The hike through the Aletsch forest, where the oldest Swiss stone pines in Switzerland grow, offers a glacier spectacle seen from above.

Lakes Sils and Silvaplana are probably some of the most beautiful places for autumn-colored larch forests. The Chastè peninsula is particularly enchanting, with an atmosphere that you will never forget. When walking along the shores of Lake Sils in the fall, you may come across strange-looking balls. They are formed when larch needles fall into the water and clump together due to the waves. It is said that during a famine, the elves once sent the people of Sils food rolled up in these balls from Maloja across the lake. There are many hiking routes in this area. Not only around the lakes, but also to Lej Sgrischus, for example, with its fantastic views.

The idyllic Lac Bleu is an absolute must for nature lovers. It is located at the end of the Val d'Hérens in a magical place surrounded by larches and Swiss stone pines and where, with a bit of luck, marmots and chamois can still be spotted in the fall. The view of the nearby glaciers of Mont Collon, Piece and Tsijiore Nouve is also simply breathtaking. The steep ascent from La Gouille takes 45 minutes, while the easier route from Arolla/Pramousse takes an hour and a half.

With its crystal-clear water and surrounding larch forest, the Lai da Palpuogna is an oasis of relaxation. Not for nothing was it voted the «most beautiful place in Switzerland» by Swiss television viewers in 2007. It is located on the mountain hiking tour from Preda to the hamlet of Spinas and invites you to linger with picnic areas. It is particularly beautiful in autumn because the blue-green water and the larch trees surrounding the lake create a stunning play of colors.

Thanks to MySwitzerland, there is an interactive map that shows current and forecast leaf coloration throughout Switzerland. It is updated twice a week from the beginning of September to mid-November. The data basis consists of current surveys on drought, heat and precipitation. The previous year's autumn data and the extensive expert knowledge of the SRF Meteo team are also incorporated into the forecast.

You can find even more events and excursions in the fall HERE.