Leukerbad - Schwarenbach

The starting point for this stage is the Hotel Römerhof in Leukerbad, very close to the bus terminal.

Signposting: Gemmipass signposts (white-red-white markings)

(S) From the Hotel Römerhof, head north-east towards the first intersection just after the cemetery.

(1) Turn left onto Ringstrasse, follow it to cross the Dala River and reach Dorfstrasse.

(2) Turn left onto the main street. Cross the entire village to the Gemmi Talstation. Continue until you reach a sign indicating the Gemmi trail (barrier and sign indicating whether the trail is open or closed).

(3) Follow the trail through the forest at the beginning, then gradually opening up as you approach the wall. Begin the long ascent, alternating between switchbacks and stairs carved into the rock. As you climb, it is difficult to see the trail. Take advantage of the benches and various viewpoints to take short breaks. Continue the climb, which is not technically difficult, except for the elevation gain. After a 900 m ascent, you will finally reach the Gemmipass.

(4) Head to the Gemmi mountain station and the Gemmi Lodge restaurant. (Food available).

Signposting: Schwarenbach / Kandersteg signposts (white-red-white markings)

(5) Take a photo break at the restaurant's viewing platform. Below the Bergstation, follow the signs for Schwarenbach. Quickly return to the Daubensee balcony trail. Walk along the lake to its northern end to reach a small pass.

(6) Continuing north, take the trail down to Schwarenbach, berghotel, evening accommodation (E).

Hike completed by the author on 10 October 2025

Travel to Leukerbad by public transport.

• Leukerbad is served by train to Leuk (Geneva - Brig line), then bus 471 to Leukerbad.

Transport: Timetables
Weather: before setting off, check the Swiss weather forecast or Météo blue
Hiking equipment, including good shoes.

Before setting off, check the SwitzerlandMobility websitefor any trail closures or diversions.

• Accommodation in Leukerbad: Hotel Römerhof
• Accommodation in Schwarenbach: Berghotel Schwarenbach

• Leukerbad.
• The Gemmipass: historic trail connecting the cantons of Bern and Valais. From the early Middle Ages onwards, mule drivers used this route to transport goods.
• The Daubensee.
• The Schwarenbach Hotel: built in 1742, the inn was once a customs post at an altitude of 2,061 metres. With the emergence of tourism, this hotel welcomed famous personalities such as Jules Verne, Guy de Maupassant, Pablo Picasso and even Lenin.
• The Wilstrubel and Grosstrubel.