There are so many beautiful places in the world, but Brig, Switzerland is a true gem. Nestled among the snow-capped Alps, this town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those who love to explore new cultures. In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Brig and what to do when you visit!
What to do in Brig
Brig is a small town, but there is plenty to do. For starters, the Aletsch Glacier is nearby and is a must-see.
Aletsch Glacier
This glacier is the largest in Europe and is simply breathtaking and is one of the main attractions in Brig.
This natural wonder is over 12 miles long and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you love hiking, then you will definitely want to explore the Aletsch forest, which surrounds the glacier. There are also many ski resorts in the area, so you can enjoy some time on the slopes!
The Great Aletsch Glacier is a stunning example of primordial grandeur. The best location to appreciate the size and unique magic of the Great Aletsch Glacier is high on the Moosfluh, Hohfluh, Bettmerhorn, and Eggishorn viewpoints. Every visitor is riveted and inspired by this massive ice river that stretches for 20 kilometers from its source in the Jungfrau region (at 4000 m) down to the Massa Gorge, around 2500 m below.
Some interesting facts about Aletsch Glacier:
- 20 km length. This makes the Great Aletsch Glacier the longest ice stream in the Alps.
- 10 billion tonnes is the weight of the Great Aletsch Glacier.
- 800 metres is the thickest ice on the glacier. This is located at Konkordiaplatz.
- 79 square kilometres is the surface of the Great Aletsch Glacier.
Matterhorn
This is the time to visit Matterhorn. Nature vacations in the Alps at the base of Switzerland’s famous landmark.
The shape of Matterhorn is Triangular. A tooth-shaped crag that reaches up into the sky. On the horizon, alone. A magnet for climbers, aesthetic emblem, and mountain with good proportions. Rugged rock with magical light. Playing in a sea of clouds and horizontal coloring
There are several attractions to be found in the Matterhorn region. Gornergrat is one of the most popular excursions. There is a viewing platform on this three-thousand-metre mountain ridge with a breathtaking perspective of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine landscape.
The Matterhorn may also be admired from the Rothorn. The highest summer ski area in Europe, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is open 365 days a year and features a glacier playground for kids of all ages. When the sun isn’t shining, there’s still much to do!
The Museum de la Montagne describes Zermatt’s historical evolution from a mountain hamlet to an Alpine holiday resort, as well as displaying numerous photographs and facts about the Matterhorn’s first ascent.
Stockalper Castle
The Stockalper Palace in Brig, which was constructed in the 17th century by Kaspar Stockalper, is well-known. The cellars, arcades, and chambers of the palace are worth seeing before dreaming beneath rose bushes in the palace garden with a view of the monastery, Jesuit church, and Old Town with its towers – it’s simply wonderful! Parisian wallcovering and silk-paintings from the 18th century may be seen in the palace corridors.
As for accommodation we recommend Mont Cervin Palace, Zermatt which we covered in our Switzerland luxury resorts guide.
When it comes to food, Brig has plenty to offer. There are numerous restaurants that serve up traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette. And of course, no trip to Switzerland would be complete without trying some of the delicious chocolate.
Interesting facts about Brig Switzerland
- Brig is the capital of the Swiss canton of Valais.
- It is located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland.
- The town has a population of about 11,000 people.
- Brig is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Alps and Matterhorn mountain.
- The town is home to the Hotel d’Angleterre, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Brig is also home to the Aletsch Glacier, which is the largest glacier in Europe.
- In 2009, Brig was ranked as the sixth most livable small town in the world by Business Insider.
- The town has a long history, dating back to the Roman era.
- Brig is known for its clock tower, which was built in the 15th century.
- There are numerous restaurants in Brig that serve traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette.
Travel information: Brig
These are some of the helpful links that you should check if you plan to travel to Brig.
Destination Brig Simplon Tourismus
Bahnhofsstrasse 2
3900 Brig
+41 (0)27 921 60 30
info@brig-simplon.ch
Website
Transport: Railway timetable
Winter sports : Swissrent
Maps : Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps / Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about Brig, Switzerland. This beautiful town has something for everyone and is definitely worth a visit. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you enjoy your time in Brig!
