Walking through autumn landscapes
We can’t guarantee it every time, but it’s generally during the first two weeks of October that autumn reaches its peak at higher altitudes. We’d almost bet on the second weekend of the month (though that’s still to be proven!).
For hiking enthusiasts, our favourite is the Four Lakes hike. A must-do in every season to discover the typical landscapes of our mountains, but when autumn sets in, it’s more than just an ordinary hike. It’s the place to be to witness a spectacular natural show. Every kilometre feels like a journey across the Atlantic. The vibrant scenery around each lake will leave you speechless!
Admire the sea of clouds
If the plains are shrouded in thick fog and you catch a faint glow struggling to break through, think about heading up to a higher altitude. There’s a good chance that above 1000m, you’ll find yourself above the clouds. At that point, a cotton-like blanket fills the valleys, the low ceiling turns an electric blue, and the air warms with the rays of the sun. It’s a breathtaking spectacle that nature offers us, especially in autumn and winter.
The best spots to observe this magical scene:
From the ridge of Lac Blanc, you can easily admire this stunning view.
The plus: easy access. From the Col du Calvaire parking, it’s only about a 15-minute walk to reach the spot.
From the summit of Gazon du Faing, at 1306m altitude, you’ll get a view of the Munster Valley submerged in the sea of clouds, with only the highest peaks of the massif, the Hohneck and the Grand Ballon, emerging.
The plus: if all the conditions are right, you can clearly make out the Bernese Alps in the background.
Admire a sunrise/sunset
As the days grow shorter, our minds are rested from the summer holidays, and our pace slows in preparation for winter, we still like to enjoy a few more sunrises and sunsets. The ones in autumn have a special charm. Neither too early nor too late, they fit perfectly into our daily routine. The softer light, the extraordinary contrasts in the surrounding landscape, and the newfound calm on the trails make this the ideal time to admire the most beautiful performances of the sun.
The perfect spot for a sunrise
On the ridge of Lac Blanc. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the open view. Since the ascent is done at dawn to be in place when the sun breaks through, make sure to bring a torch for the walk. Stay quiet, as chamois are often on the trails at that time.
The perfect spot for a sunset
From the Hautes Chaumes of the Tanet-Gazon du Faing Nature Reserve.
The heather moorland turns into a remarkable golden carpet.
