Blatten bei Naters is a mountain village in the municipality of Naters in the canton of Valais, at an elevation of around 1,300 metres above sea level. Two defining features of the village are the Massa Gorge and the history of the old village. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Blatten bei Naters, you can choose your destination based on whether you mainly want to hike, experience the gorge or discover historic places.
The Massa Gorge and paths by the water
The entrance to the Massa Gorge is in Blatten. The canyon, carved from white polished marble, was shaped by the Great Aletsch Glacier and the force of the water. The Massa Trail runs through the gorge from Blatten bei Naters to Ried-Mörel. It follows the former Riederi irrigation channel, first mentioned in 1385. As trail conditions depend on the weather, you should check conditions before setting out on your hike.
Canyoning in the Massa Gorge also centres on rock and water: the tour includes jumps of up to 8 metres and a rappel of more than 30 metres into the rock formation known as the “Cathedral”. Check conditions and availability before your trip. The Aletsch Via Ferrata runs along the rock around the Gibidum Reservoir. It includes an 80-metre-long, 40-metre-high Nepalese bridge that crosses the Massa where it flows into the reservoir. The Massa Gorge climbing area offers alpine sport climbing on small edges, sharp crystals and wide cracks; access for climbing depends on the terrain and safety conditions.
Hikes with different themes
Vero’s Witch Trail in Blindtal starts in Blatten and ends in Geimen. This themed trail for the whole family combines the hike with activities whose solutions lead to a magic spell. The Rischinerwald Marble Run Trail offers a different way to discover things along the way: this 3.37-kilometre circular themed trail starts at the valley station of the Belalp cable cars in Blatten and features six handmade wooden marble runs. Vero’s Treasure Hunt takes you on a hike from Belalp to Blatten bei Naters, with eight puzzle stations along the way.
Those interested in wildlife and plants will find information panels about local flora and fauna along the wildlife trail. There is a wildlife observation post in Holzji, and the Holzji Trail also passes close by. However, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The Holzji Trail for snowshoe hikes starts in Blatten bei Naters. Check snow conditions and the state of the trail in advance.
Leisure activities and seasonal pursuits
At the Hexenkessel leisure park in Blatten, the miniature golf course has 16 witch-themed stations, each where you can discover a story. The Hexenkessel playground includes a bathing lake and a barbecue area; these facilities may be seasonal. The Hexenkessel high ropes course has a zipline more than 200 metres long, as well as a separate children’s course for guests at least 1 metre tall. The high ropes course is subject to seasonal and weather conditions.
There are also several distinct ways to get around on two wheels: the Hexenwald Blatten–Blindtal tour descends through Blindtal from Blatten to Geimen and is recommended for experienced bikers only. The tour starts at the valley station of the Belalp cable cars in Blatten. The Trotti-bike experience is a seasonal activity and includes an 8-kilometre descent from Belalp to Blatten.
The old village and local history
A group of larchwood houses in the old village of Blatten stands along the Chapel Trail. The houses were built in the 17th century. A substantial chapel marks the village’s highest point and centre. The Wichje bakehouse offers another glimpse into local traditions: it can be used and visited in its entirety. Visitors are given an introduction to baking rye bread; guided tours are available on request.
Getting there and finding your way
Blatten bei Naters can be reached from Brig or Naters by public transport. Check the current timetable before your trip. Paid parking is available at Chienzlichrommu and in the car park in Blatten bei Naters; parking regulations may change. In winter, Belalp is the ski area connected to the region around Blatten. This brings the practical differences into focus when planning your trip: a gorge trail or a themed hike, village history or seasonal leisure activities, summer trails or a winter ski area.
Discover more destinations: Mehlbaum, Tschuggen.
Return to the main travel overview: Naters.
