Lötschental

Lötschental is a Swiss alpine valley located in the canton of Valais. It forms a northern side valley of the Rhone valley and lies within the Valais Alps. The valley runs roughly from Brig-Glis in the north toward the southern end near the Lötschen Pass, which connects to surrounding high-mountain routes. The landscape is shaped by glaciers and rugged peaks, with broad meadows and forests at lower elevations and alpine terrain higher up.

Settlements and culture: The valley is sparsely populated, with small villages such as Blatten, Kippel, and Wiler along its lower reaches, and the higher-elevation resort area of Belalp. Traditional Walser-influenced architecture, featuring wooden chalets and carved balconies, characterizes many of the built structures. The Lötschental preserves distinctive Alpine culture, including traditional dress and customs, enhanced by the region’s agricultural heritage and cheese production.

Economy and activities: Agriculture and dairy farming remain important, complemented by tourism. The area attracts visitors for hiking and mountaineering in the summer, with a network of marked trails and alpine huts, and for winter sports in the higher-altitude resort areas such as Belalp. The valley’s scenery and cultural heritage also contribute to its appeal for contemplative travel and photography.

Access and geography: The Lötschental is accessible by road from Brig and is served by regional rail in the Lötschberg corridor. The southern end centers on the Lötschen Pass, a high mountain route that is typically closed in winter due to snow but used by trekkers in the warmer months. The valley is known for its pristine alpine landscape and relatively intact rural settlement patterns.