At Alpe Jungen above Sankt Niklaus, there is a small lake and views of the surrounding mountains. The alp is accessible by gondola; access depends on current cable car and trail conditions. Around the village, hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs with views of the Swiss Alps. Sankt Niklaus is a political municipality in the Visp district of the canton of Valais.

Hikes with different time requirements

The St. Niklaus–Jungen cable car is a two-track reversible aerial tramway built by Garaventa; the ride takes 8 minutes and 55 seconds. Route 40 runs from St. Niklaus to Jungen, is 3.61 kilometres long, is rated difficult and takes about two and a half hours. These times represent two different time budgets for the named places: a short cable car ride instead of a longer, challenging hike. Cable car operating details depend on the season and weather; check them before travelling. For hikes, take current trail conditions into account.

Route 39 climbs through a larch forest towards Sparru and Jungtal, reaching 2,361 metres above sea level. Its forest section and altitude give it a different character from Route 40, which offers views of Grächen and the Ried Glacier, although visibility depends on the weather. You can also cycle on trails around Sankt Niklaus, offering another way to explore the landscape. When hiking Route 39, take current trail conditions and seasonal hazards into account.

Jungen and Jungu as starting points

When choosing a route, it is worth distinguishing between Jungen and Jungu: Jungen is the starting point for the high-altitude hike from Jungen to Moosalp, while Jungu is the starting point of the Weisshornweg. This trail leads via the Topalihütte to Randa; the section from Jungu to the hut is its first part. Before setting out on the high-alpine Weisshornweg, check the current conditions.

Regional tastings and culture

The Burgerkeller is located in the Meierturm, where you can sample regional products. If you are planning a tasting, it is a good idea to check the latest visiting hours. During the Christmas season, the world’s largest figure of St. Nicholas towers over Sankt Niklaus; before visiting, it is best to check how it is currently being presented. The figure makes the Christmas season a possible reason to travel; the Burgerkeller adds a culinary touch with regional products. Nearby, the Zermatt Matterhorn Museum explores local history and the Matterhorn. Sankt Niklaus also has shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Together, these visits complement the hiking trails with culinary experiences and culture.

Discover more destinations: Herbriggen, Baltschieder, Törbel, Saas-Almagell, Visperterminen, Zeneggen, Randa, Gasenried

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