Things To Do
in Naters
Naters is a charming municipality located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. It is situated in the Rhone Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, including the imposing Bietschhorn peak. The village is known for its picturesque old town with traditional Swiss architecture and a historic church dating back to the 15th century.
Naters offers a peaceful and idyllic setting for visitors looking to explore the Swiss Alps and experience authentic Swiss culture.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the nearby Belalp, enjoying breathtaking views of the Alps. Don’t forget to pack some snacks for a picnic amidst nature.
Visit the local historic church, the Church of St. George, to appreciate its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance. Afterward, explore the quaint shops in Naters for unique souvenirs.
Indulge in Swiss cuisine at a local restaurant, trying dishes like fondue or raclette. Enjoy a relaxed stroll around the charming village, soaking in the night views.
Start the day with a guided glacier hike on the Aletsch Glacier, experiencing the stunning ice formations. Wear sturdy boots and bring plenty of water.
Enjoy a well-deserved meal at a mountain hut, soaking in the panoramic views. Afterwards, take a cable car ride for more breathtaking scenery.
Unwind back in Naters with a quiet evening, perhaps reading a book or chatting with locals at a café. Feel the serene atmosphere settle in as you sip a warm drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the nearby mountains and Rhone river.
- Rich cultural heritage and history with charming architecture.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking.
- Stable economy and high standard of living.
- Safety and low crime rates contribute to a comfortable living environment.
- High cost of living, including housing and general expenses.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Job opportunities may be limited, particularly for non-German speakers.
- Winter weather can be harsh, affecting accessibility.
- Isolation due to its mountainous location may lead to feelings of remoteness.
Best Activities in Naters
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking trails in the Aletsch Arena, offering stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding mountains. Suitable for all skill levels.
Ride through various mountain biking trails in Naters, ranging from easy routes for beginners to challenging paths for experienced bikers.
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning landscapes of Valais. Suitable for both beginners and seasoned flyers, with professional instructors available.
Take a scenic walk to the historic Stockalper Palace in Brig, which offers guided tours and beautiful gardens to explore.
In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski resorts such as the Aletsch Glacier Ski Area, catering to all levels of experience.
Hike or walk in the stunning Rhône Gorge, also known as the 'Grand Canyon of Switzerland,' and witness its impressive rock formations and river views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Naters with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Naters
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps, best accessed via cogwheel train.
Known for its breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, Blatten-Belalp is a fantastic spot for photography, especially during golden hour.
The largest glacier in the Alps provides stunning vistas and unique photographic opportunities, particularly from the viewpoint at Bettmerhorn.
A picturesque chapel against a backdrop of mountains, ideal for capturing both architecture and natural beauty.
Offers dramatic mountain views and is perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of the Swiss landscape.
Food in Naters
Naters Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, Raclette is a melted cheese delight served with potatoes, gherkins, and onions. Indulge in this savory treat at Restaurant zur Alten Mühle, known for its authentic preparation.
Must-Try!
Zermatter Rösti, a crispy Swiss potato dish, is a local favorite. Visit Rösti-Stübli to savor the best Zermatter Rösti in Naters.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Naters better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, the Naters Market comes alive with an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. It's a great spot to sample street food like bratwurst and raclette served by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Naters, as in much of Switzerland, it is important to greet people politely. Use 'Grüezi' for formal situations and 'Hoi' for informal encounters. Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time.
Being on time is considered a sign of respect in Swiss culture. Whether for social gatherings or professional meetings, always strive to arrive punctually.
The Swiss value tranquility and tend to speak softly in public spaces. It’s important to keep your voice down and respect the serene environment, especially in shared spaces like public transportation or cafes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Naters with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Naters
Ensure a smooth experience
In Naters, Switzerland, tipping is generally not obligatory as service charges are often included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave small change as a token of appreciation for good service, particularly in restaurants and cafes. In more upscale dining establishments, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common, albeit with small amounts.
Payment practices in Naters reflect typical standards found in Switzerland. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, and contactless payments are popular. Cash is also commonly used, particularly for small purchases. The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency. ATMs are easily accessible in Naters for those needing cash. Additionally, many places accept international credit cards, but it's advisable to check beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Naters features mild weather, blooming flowers, and scenic landscapes. It's a great time for hiking as the snow begins to melt, and the trails become accessible. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C.
Summer (June to August) is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the stunning alpine scenery. Temperatures can reach up to 25°C or more, and it's a popular time for tourists.
Autumn (September to November) showcases beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures. It's less crowded than summer, offering a peaceful experience for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. Expect temperatures between 5°C and 15°C.
Winter (December to February) transforms Naters into a winter wonderland. It's perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying winter sports in nearby resorts. Expect cold temperatures, often dropping below 0°C, and plenty of snowfall.
Naters at Night
Hiking in Naters
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike offering views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, with stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
A picturesque hiking route from Naters to the Belalp, featuring beautiful mountain landscapes and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
An enjoyable hike connecting Riederalp and Bettmeralp, with breathtaking views of the Alps and Aletsch Arena.
A hike that leads to the Eggishorn summit, providing an incredible viewpoint of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.
This trail descends from Fiescheralp to Fiesch, offering beautiful alpine scenery and the chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
Aiports
How to reach Naters by plane.
Located approximately 150 km from Naters, Geneva Airport is one of Switzerland's major international airports, serving numerous airlines and destinations worldwide.
Zurich Airport is about 200 km from Naters and is the largest international airport in Switzerland, operating numerous flights across Europe and the globe.
Situated around 230 km from Naters, EuroAirport serves the tri-national region of France, Germany, and Switzerland, and is a significant hub for both low-cost and traditional airlines.
Approximately 90 km from Naters, Bern Airport is a smaller international airport with limited destinations but provides access to the Swiss capital region.
Located around 260 km from Naters, Malpensa Airport serves as the main international gateway for the city of Milan, Italy, with numerous international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Naters, including individuals who hold Swiss nationality.
Non-Swiss individuals living in Naters, which includes various nationalities and ethnic backgrounds.
Older adults who make up a significant portion of the population, often engaged in community activities.
Households that include children, contributing to the village's demographic youth aspect.
Individuals typically aged 18-30, often comprising students and early professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Naters is located near the Alps, making skiing a popular winter sport among locals and tourists.
Alongside skiing, snowboarding is a favored activity in the snowy mountainous regions around Naters.
The surrounding trails and mountains offer excellent opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts during the summer months.
Hiking is a popular pastime, with numerous scenic trails providing stunning views of the Alpine landscape.
Football is widely played and followed at various levels, from local clubs to national competitions.
In the warmer months, swimming in lakes and outdoor pools is a popular recreational activity for residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naters.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Naters offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that those with plant-based diets can enjoy the local flavors. Café Cappuccino and Pizzeria Pinocchio are known for their vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at restaurants like Hotel-Restaurant Bahnhof, which accommodates gluten-free dietary needs with a dedicated menu.