Starting from Naters, the road that climbs in the direction of the Gibidum Dam is on a steady slope from the very first few hundred metres. As you gain altitude, you have a grand view over the city of Brig below and the road leading to the Simplon pass on the other side of the valley. After a few kilometres you will come to a junction towards the village of Mund, famous for its saffron crops. Below the village of Blatten, the road turns into switchbacks through an ever-demanding slope, but the view over the mountainous cliffs covered in greenery and streaked with streams will delight despite the effort. After the village of Blatten, a narrower road will take you to the lake of the Gibidum Dam.
Gibidum – Trophy of the Dams
- medium
- 10,68 km
- 2 hours
- 812 m
- 10 m
- start: Naters
- destination: Gibidum Dam
Best Season
Good to know
- Cultural Interesting
- Stop at an Inn
Naters
Gibidum Dam
Less than ten kilometres separate Naters and the Gibidum Dam, but this steep ascent is far from easy! In the first few kilometres you can admire the view over the valley between the cities of Brig and Visp and see in the distance the beginning of the Goms Valley. The terrain suddenly becomes enclosed and steep towards the village of Blatten, surrounded by pristine nature with a backdrop of high mountains that catch the eye at every turn. Arriving in Blatten, you can catch your breath over a few 100 metres of easier slopes before the climb continues between the trees before heading off at the junction to the left. The last ramp is quite tough but will lead you to an observation bridge where you can view the Gibidum Dam and its lake oscillating in blue and grey. At the very end we can catch a glimpse of the majesty of the Aletsch Arena.
Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals. For your own safety, wear an helmet every time you ride a bike. Emergency numbers: 144 Ambulance / 117 Police / 1414 Helicopter Rescue (Rega).
We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.
After the effort, make a detour to the Brigerbad and relax in the warm thermal water or the sauna area.
Coming from Sierre: follow route 9 until Brig.
Parking at the train station in Brig. Follow the local car park routeing in Brig.
Frequent train connections from all over Switzerland to Brig. Take the northern exit of the train station and cross the Rhone bridge to arrive directly at the village of Naters.
Brochures: Road Cycling Map
SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1289 Brig / 1269 Aletschgletscher
More information :