ザンクトニクラウスの湖・トップ20

広大な有料駐車場のある美しい湖。

I did this hike in early May 2024, just a few days after the ski season was over and the slopes had closed. The valley was completely deserted and it felt magical! The peaks were still covered in snow, but the first signs of spring were beckoning. On the final stretch to Lac d'Arpitetta, I was wading through snow up to my knees. Without proper gear I couldn’t get any farther than the small lake. The view on that crystal-clear spring day was absolutely fantastic! Check the picture I uploaded with all the peak names added.

From the dam you have a great view of the Saas Valley and the Valais mountains.

Super beautiful view ☺️ , also of the many waterfalls.

Surrounded by high alpine tranquility and glacial peaks, the turquoise-blue Mattmarksee lies at your feet. This artificial lake is located at over 2,000 meters in the farthest reaches of the Saas Valley. It stores meltwater and supplies the region with renewable energy.

Starting point and/or destination of numerous beautiful hikes. E.g. Gsponer Höhenweg

Due to the cable car, this is a busy spot with plenty of space and entertainment, even for families. It's also a starting point for hikers aiming for higher ground. P.S. You can also walk here. 😉 (I then continued on to the Lagginhorn without using the cable car.) 😊]

Lake Arpitettaz is a small mountain lake on the road to Cabane d’Arpitettaz. If you don't want to go to the Cabin, you can also make a loop to return to Zinal via the Roc de la Vache from the Lake. However, there is a trick to getting to Lac d’Arpitettaz from Zinal. If you stay on the right bank of the river, you will have to take a difficult and steep passage called “Pas du Chasseur” where you will have to hang on to chains for part of the way. This is not ideal, especially if you have young children. Instead, stay on the left bank of the river towards the Cabane du Petit Mountet and from there follow the direction of Lac d'Arpitettaz. You will cross the river on a pretty modern bridge. This will add an extra 10 minutes to your hike but above all you will have peace of mind and be able to see the Zinal Waterfall. It's really worth the detour.