Swiss Parks Network
Monbijoustrasse 61
CH-3007 Berne
Tel. +41 (0)31 381 10 71
Mob. +41 (0)76 525 49 44
info@parks.swiss
Naturpark Pfyn-Finges - The bearded vulture with a wing-span of over 2.6 metres is the largest bird in the Alps. There are numerous stories about this bird from the past, which are evidenced by old trivial names such as "chamois vulture" or "lamb vulture".
In Switzerland, it was deliberately decimated and eventually wiped out until the end of the 19th century due to competition and ignorance, as well as bounties. An international program to reintroduce them to the Alps began in 1986.
Status (in CH): rare, local breeding bird.
Characteristics: Very large bird of prey; compared to other vultures, narrow, pointed wings, long wedge-shaped tail. Young birds dark brown with lighter belly plumage; sexes the same.
For a number of years, it is once again possible to cross the Gemmi pass from the top and go as far as Sunnbüel in winter. The walk leads from the Gemmi over the Dauben Lake to Kandersteg.
The trail descends slightly, is well cared for and marked.
The mule track was constructed by the Tyroleans in 1739/41 and leads through the Daubenwand, which even today seems insurmountable, and up to the Gemmi Pass. With a bit of luck you might see bearded vultures.
Visitors rave about the splendid views of the Monte-Rosa massif, the Weisshorn,Matterhorn and Dent Blanche.The mule track still leads past the Dauben Lake to Schwarenbach mountain hotel, which is steeped in history, and then further on to Kandersteg.
All season
