Lax connects the Aletsch region with the high valley of Goms. The village offers a range of options for planning your trip: the reLAX circular trail with local art and a striking staircase, the Fiescheralp–Lax sledging route and the Rällen tradition during Holy Week. Depending on when you travel and what interests you, you can discover Lax through its landscapes, architecture, culture or winter sports.
Art, a staircase and the Rhone on the reLAX circular trail
The reLAX circular trail starts at Lax railway station. Along the route, you can see artworks by artists based in Lax. The centrepiece of the trail is a spectacular staircase that winds around a rock. The route also offers beautiful views and the soothing sound of the Rhone. Art, staircase and river come together along the same circular trail.
You can reach the trail by train from Brig or Oberwald to Lax. By car, take cantonal road 19 and then Furkastrasse to the car park. Trains run from Lax every half hour towards Goms and towards Brig and Visp. Check the current timetable before travelling.
Sledging and trains
The Fiescheralp–Lax sledging route is 11 kilometres long and runs through snow-covered forests. For the return journey to Fiesch, the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway takes sledgers from Lax to Fiesch. The route length, forest section and return train provide practical guidance for planning your winter trip; check the current timetable before travelling.
Getting to Lax
From the west, you can reach Lax via Brig. In summer, the eastern approaches are via the Grimsel, Furka or Nufenen passes; in winter, you can reach the east by taking your car through the Furka Tunnel on the car shuttle train. Brig is 15 kilometres away, and the car shuttle through the Furka Tunnel covers 27 kilometres. Check the conditions for the passes and car shuttle before your trip.
Longer routes: Stoneman and Laggera
The Stoneman Glaciara Hike covers 65 kilometres and 3,300 metres of ascent through Goms, the Aletsch Arena and Binntal. You can complete it as a trail run or hike over one, two or three daily stages. One section of the route runs between Fiesch and Lax. Near Altbach, look out for a landslide warning on the Stoneman route; check current route conditions before setting out.
The Laggera high-altitude trail runs above Lax, Fiesch and Fieschertal. For much of its length, it follows the old Laggerawyssa and Fiescherwyssa irrigation channels, built in the 14th century. After reaching Altbach, the elevation remains practically constant; the trail runs above the valley towards Fieschertal. While the Stoneman’s length, elevation gain and choice of stages give you a clear idea of its scope, the old irrigation channels and high-altitude course shape the Laggera route.
Rällen and Zillwald
Rällen is an old Lax tradition that takes place during Holy Week and is still practised today. Children and young people sound wooden rattles instead of bells. They gather in front of the church and walk through the village in single file. Holy Week provides the seasonal context; exact times and the route may vary locally. If you are planning your trip around Rällen, ask about this year’s programme in advance.
The settlement of Zillwald also offers an architectural perspective on Lax. It is considered an example of modern architecture that has achieved a balance between the topography and local architecture. Together, a tradition tied to a particular time each year and the distinctive architecture of the village offer different cultural perspectives.
Climate and landscape
Despite its high elevation, Lax has a mild climate and is considered a climatic health resort. Lax is also said to be the only place in its region where the frost-sensitive walnut tree still grows quite well. The Lax fire pit is in a meadow just above the village and offers views of the mountains and valley. It can be reached on foot or by vehicle; check access conditions before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Ulrichen, Fieschertal, Ernen, Blitzingen, Binn, Bellwald, Obergesteln, Fiesch.
Go to the main travel overview: Goms.
