Excursions and day trips from Zermatt
Saas-Fee
Lying in the next-door valley to Zermatt, Saas-Fee (1800m) is sometimes overlooked, perhaps because it doesn’t have any train access. However, were it not for the Matterhorn next door, the array of peaks around Saas-Fee would take centre-stage on any Alpine itinerary.
The Goms
The upper part of the Rhône valley, stretching from Brig to the high Alpine passes, is known as the Goms. Winter sees thick snow covering the whole region, perfect for cross-country skiing at all levels.
Northeast from Brig towards Münster
About 8km out of Brig you’ll pass Mörel, with signs for cable cars rising west to Riederalp and, a little further on, Betten, with cable cars to Bettmeralp. Both these car-free resorts are perched on plateaux, with lifts serving the Aletschwald, one of the highest pine forests in Europe.
Münster
Some 9km past Fiesch, where the villages become smaller and more rural, you'll fnd the little community of Münster. This tranquil village is characterized by the traditional Valaisian-style chalets. Clustered together higgledy-piggledy, and burnt a rich dark brown, they're all decorated with pretty geranium window boxes.
The High Alpine passes
Above Münster, the Obergoms (Upper Goms) region lies at the approach to the High Alpine passes. A turning at Ulrichen leads to the Nufenen Pass, or Passo della Novena (2478m), which crosses into Ticino and the Val Bedretto .