Saas-Fee draws travelers from all over due to the charming nature of this quaint, car-free village with impressive peaks. The area is home to 13 four-thousand meter mountains. The region is known as, "The Pearl of the Alps," with its highest mountain Dom, that sits at an impressive 4545 m in altitude. With around just 1600 residents, this tiny town with its well preserved wooden structures known as raccards, were originally designed to keep humid air and animals from destroying precious grains and food as it was being dried.
Saas-Fee is ideal year-round and known for its 150 km of ski pistes and roughly 350 km of beautiful hiking trails. Home to the highest rotating restaurant in the Alps, the area is certainly worthy of a weekend visit. With activities that range from the thrill-seeking, to family-friendly, Saas-Fee is the perfect location to adventure or relax.
Where to Stay:
You have never experienced a hostel quite like this. With private family rooms, delicious meals, a luxurious spa, indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center, staying in a Swiss hostel is a rich experience. Conveniently located and relatively affordable, consider the WellnessHostel 4000 for your overnight stay.
Hike 1 - Ibex Trail
The Ibex Trail, though it may not deliver on its ability to bring the Ibex to you, certainly provides stunning views. This high elevation hike starts at the Hannig mountain station (2336 m). Grab a cup of coffee and take some time to play at the Alpine playground before starting your journey toward Mällig (2700 m).
This route contains significant uphill sections but rest assured, the views are worth the effort. With several four-thousand meter peaks in the line of sight, this trail is gorgeous. Particularly beautiful in the summer and autumn months when the hike through the larch forest is at its prime. Poles are recommended for the steady downhill portion of the route back to the village. Packing plently of water for the duration of the trail, snacks and layers for changing weather is always advised.
Though we didn't spot a single Ibex on the hike, hikes such as this remind up why we love the Swiss Alps. When 4000 m peaks tower overhead, we are once again reminded how small we are in the vast world. We love that feeling!
Tips:
We would recommend this route for experienced hiking families and those with older children who can navigate steep uphills and downhills.
Take the time to enjoy the Saas-Fee swing at the Hannig mountain station. This location makes for great photos!
Please see the "Special Features" and "Be Aware" sections below for additional information on weather, trail closures and access to all facilities.
Hike 2 - Saas-Fee Loop
This easy and peaceful trail is perfect upon your arrival or departure to or from Saas-Fee. Take your time on this route getting a genuine feel for this delightful location in the Swiss Alps. With the old wooden bridge and water wheel, this route starts off welcoming its visitors.
As you slowly meader through forests, and along the river, you will be reminded that not all outdoor excursions need to be strenuous. With those high peaks looming in the distance, and flowery meadows in sight, bring a picnic and relax; Saas-Fee views are meant to be savored.
Pro Tip:
Oh, and one more thing, when nature calls look for the Kompotoi in Saas-Fee. Fresh and natural, these are our favorite toilets to discover on any hike. When in Saas-Fee look for the Kompotoi at the Kalbermatten Sports Field/Ski Lift - you'll be happy you did! They fit right in with the natural landscape!
Special Features:
Take full advantage of the Saastal Card. You will receive this card the first night of your overnight accommodation. This card provides you with free use of the cable cars (with the exception of Metro Alpin), and the Postbus. For remarkable views, take the lift all the way to Felskinn (Pennine Alps). You will be happy you did!
Gorgeous hiking trails with incredible views.
Consider a visit to the Rope Park or the Feeblitz run if traveling with children.
For a fun theme children for small children, check out the Fairytale Trail Saas-Fee.
Be Aware:
Check weather and snow levels before heading out on your journey. The mountains in the region are at high elevation, so snow is possible late into the season and early during the autumn months.
Confirm that trails are open and safe for hiking. To check trail status and to view all hikes in the area, visit Saas-Fee. To determine whether the facilities you are interested in using/visiting are open, visit Facilities.
Be prepared by wearing layers and packing all the essentials such as food, plenty of water, first aid kit, well charged cell phone and extra clothing.
Know which lifts are open and the corresponding timetables if you are relying on them for your hike/adventure.
Know how to read trail markers! Most of the hikes in this region are on white-red-white or even - white-blue-white trails. Please know the risks before starting your adventure.
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