Things To Do
in Naters
Naters sits in the Valais region of southern Switzerland, at the entrance to the Rhône valley near Brig-Glis. It serves as a gateway to the southern Alps and the Aletsch Glacier area, offering easy access to hiking, skiing, and panoramic mountain views. The town preserves a charming, traditional Swiss atmosphere with a compact center, historic stone houses, and easy access to nearby alpine huts.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, quiet streets, and convenient day trips to the surrounding resorts and glaciers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Brig train station and take a scenic train ride to Naters, enjoying the picturesque views of the Swiss Alps. Check into your cozy accommodation and settle in before starting your adventure. Grab a light breakfast at a local café, surrounded by the beautiful mountain landscape.
Explore the charming village of Naters, visiting the local shops and the stunning Church of Naters, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Stop for lunch at a mountain restaurant, savoring traditional Swiss cuisine while taking in the fresh alpine air. Afterward, take a leisurely hike on one of the nearby trails, immersing yourself in the serene environment.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up before dinner. Treat yourself to a delightful meal at a local restaurant, where you can try Swiss specialties like fondue. Enjoy a quiet evening stroll under the stars, taking in the peaceful ambiance of the Alps.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast in Naters before heading to the Aletsch Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Join a guided hiking tour that will take you through stunning landscapes filled with pristine snow and breathtaking views. Prepare your camera to capture the magnificent sights of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a packed lunch amid the breathtaking glacier scenery. Continue your hike, taking the time to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region, as well as the awe-inspiring ice formations. Afterward, visit the nearby mountain huts where you can taste local delicacies and refresh with a drink.
Head back to Naters, where you can unwind at your accommodation. Share stories of your adventure over dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant, perhaps enjoying a delicious rosti or a hearty stew. Conclude your evening with a warm drink by the fireplace, reflecting on a day well spent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Hotel or guesthouse per night (mid-range) | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs or local products | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to the Aletsch Glacier and high Alps
- Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Naters itself
- Some attractions require bus/train connections for access
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You’re welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
- "Können Sie langsamer sprechen?" - Could you speak more slowly?
Places to Visit in Naters
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic stone houses and a classic Swiss church create charming street scenes, especially in the early morning light.
High-altitude viewpoints offering sweeping glacier panoramas and sweeping mountain silhouettes.
Ridges above Bettmersee with dramatic alpine backdrops and reflections on the water.
Forest trails and open meadows provide soft light for landscape and nature photography.
Long glacier vistas and distant alpenglow; best at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Naters
Naters Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Melted cheese served with potatoes, gherkins, and onions; a must-try in a cosy alpine setting.
Must-Try!
Crispy potato rösti topped with cheese, mushrooms, or vegetables; a staple of the region.
Cheese fondue served with bread, perfect for chilly evenings in the mountains.
Air-dried beef slices, a classic Wallis snack often paired with bread and cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Cheeses, breads, pretzels, and regional produce; a great place to taste local fare.
Fresh regional cheeses and pastries sampled as you walk through town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and public transport; punctuality is valued.
Greet with a hearty 'Grüezi' or 'Grüß Gott'; a handshake is common in formal encounters.
Evenings and Sundays are typically quieter; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Request permission for portrait photography when possible, especially in private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Naters
Ensure a smooth experience
In Switzerland, service is included in many meals; if not, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy in smaller shops and markets; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with warm afternoons; ideal for hiking, cycling, and lake visits. Expect afternoon thunderstorms; carry sun protection and layers.
Snowy landscapes ideal for skiing and snowshoeing; shorter daylight hours; ensure warm clothing and avalanche awareness.
Meltwater and blooming meadows; good for early hiking and fewer crowds; weather can be changeable.
Cooler temperatures and autumn colors; fewer visitors; use layers and be prepared for sudden rain.
Naters at Night
Hiking in Naters
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hike to Eggishorn for sweeping views of the Aletsch Glacier; can be a long day hike or combined with transport to Bettmeralp.
Family-friendly forest trails with gentle ascents and scenic meadows.
Ridge hike with views of Bettmersee, Märjelensee, and the glacier.
Airports
How to reach Naters by plane.
Closest regional airport; typically seasonal flights; 1.5-2 hours by car or train transfer.
Regional international gateway; about 2-3 hours by train or car.
Major international hub with extensive connections; about 2.5-3.5 hours by rail.
Another major international hub; about 3-4 hours by rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly German-speaking Swiss families and retirees.
A mix of workers and tourists from other European countries seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class slopes in nearby Aletsch Arena and valley resorts.
Extensive trails from easy lakeside strolls to challenging high-alpine routes.
Scenic flights over the valley on clear days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naters.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for cheese-based dishes, mushrooms, vegetables, and grain bowls; ask for meat-free preparations when ordering.