Home to the largest thermal bath in the Swiss Alps, Leukerbad is a picturesque village in the Swiss canton of Valais. Its therapeutic waters have been revered since Roman times, with ancient graves and 4th-century-BC ceramics attesting to the region’s long history of habitation.
Things to do in Leukerbad
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can stretch your legs on the ancient mule track that connects Leukerbad with the Gemmi Pass or ascend the long, vertical “ladders” that lead to the summit of Dabenhorn. Rising on the other side of Leukerbad is the 2,999-metre high Torrenthorn, which offers majestic views across the Bernese Alps. It can be accessed along a scenic trail that leads through alpine pastures and meadows.
In the winter months, Leukerbad serves as a base for exploring the surrounding ski pistes and cross-country trails, with easy access to the resorts of Crans Montana, Lachernalp and St-Luc-Chandolin. If the weather isn’t ideal, you can take advantage of the ice skating rink, curling facilities and indoor climbing wall or enjoy a hit of squash.
At the end of the day, there’s nothing better than soaking in the mineral-rich waters of the Leukerbad Therme, which comprises both indoor and outdoor pools with stunning mountain views. In addition, there are saunas, whirlpools and a natural stone grotto and massages are available on request. When it’s time to eat, you can feast at the self-service buffet or enjoy a pizza on the large sun terrace.
Getting around Leukerbad
Leukerbad is around two hours’ drive from both Lausanne and Bern Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel from the Leuk railway station to Leukerbad while the town centre is small enough to explore on foot. Chairlifts connect to the surrounding ski slopes.