Grimsel

Grimsel is a high Alpine region in the central Swiss Alps, named for the Grimsel Pass, a prominent road over the mountains that links the Bernese Oberland with the Swiss canton of Valais. The area is known for rugged granite scenery, alpine meadows, and a network of streams fed by snowmelt and glaciers. The Grimsel Pass road (Grimselstrasse) is open primarily in the warmer months and is a popular route for travelers, hikers, and cyclists.

The Grimsel Hydroelectric Project is a key feature of the area. It comprises two major reservoirs, Grimselsee and Räterichsbodensee, and a system of power stations that harness Alpine water to generate electricity. Construction began in the early 20th century and the facilities have been expanded since, forming one of Switzerland's long-standing hydroelectric complexes. The project is integrated into the national grid and has influenced regional development and tourism.

The region supports outdoor recreation throughout the year. In addition to driving the pass, visitors can hike in the surrounding valleys, engage in mountaineering in the surrounding peaks, and observe the high alpine environment. The Grimsel Hospiz, a historic inn located near the pass, is a reference point for travelers and walkers.

Grimsel is sometimes described in the context of the Bernese Oberland and the Valais, illustrating the cultural and geographic ties across the Alpine border. The name remains primarily associated with the pass and the hydroelectric installations, but the term is also used to refer to the broader mountain landscape around the route.