Grand Canyon? Illgraben!

Naturpark Pfyn-Finges - Alps, flowers, mountain lakes and a unique view into the Valais Grand Canyon

In order to appreciate the true size of the Illgraben, climb up metre by metre from Oberems over different stages of vegetation until you are above the tree line and at the upper Meretschi Alp and its lakes. At the time of the Ice Age, this was the approximate thickness of the glacier. A desolate landscape and colourful flower meadows take you over alpine paths past lakes, rock glaciers and scree. The ascent up to Illhorn from the Pas d l'Illsee is worthwhile, because your muscular effort will be rewarded with the view into the Valais Grand Canyon. From the Pas d l'Illsee we recommend the more pleasant detour in the direction of Ponchet, which will again bring you to the edge of the "crater" and shows the Illgraben from another perspective. The way back takes the alpine road through an open larch and pine wood.