The Ursern Valley around Andermatt

The Ursern Valley: The Tranquil Side of the Swiss Alps

South of the Schöllenen Gorge, the Ursern Valley opens out into an alpine landscape of striking scale and tranquillity. Imposing rock faces, wide meadows and clear mountain lakes frame a place where nature and history are closely intertwined. Andermatt is the heart of this high-alpine region and a starting point for exploring its scenic trails and discovering the area. Visitors can enjoy the mountain panoramas at their own pace.

The Urseren Valley at a glance

• High-alpine location: Situated in the canton of Uri, the Urseren Valley combines imposing peaks and open landscapes with the vastness of the Swiss Alps
• Three Alpine passes, varied landscapes: The Gotthard Pass, Furka Pass and Oberalp Pass lead from Andermatt into distinct alpine settings
• Historic routes: for centuries, pass routes and mule tracks have linked the Urseren Valley with the landscapes beyond the Gotthard Pass
• Andermatt as the centre: The village combines alpine character with cultural variety
• Space and tranquillity: Despite its historical significance, the Urseren Valley retains a soothing sense of seclusion

Rugged and magical: the nature of the Urseren Valley

In the Ursern Valley, nature makes its presence felt. Mighty peaks and rugged, rocky slopes characterise the landscape, while lush green meadows, fragrant alpine slopes, and the bright ribbon of the River Reuss create a sense of gentle expansiveness. The valley takes on a different character with each season: in summer, footpaths wind through flowering meadows; in autumn, clear light falls across the slopes; and in winter, snow, rock and sky define the panorama.

The most beautiful and tranquil vantage points in the Urserntal

Sometimes, all it takes to enjoy a special view is a quiet spot, a bench and the right moment. The benches at Chämleten near Hospental and Gändli above Andermatt are just such places, with wide-ranging views from peaceful settings. They invite visitors to pause and take in the Ursern Valley.

The Chämleten bench near Hospental
After a short climb, the bench at Chämleten offers wide views across the countryside around Hospental. It is the perfect spot for a peaceful break, combining the character of the historic mountain village with the open expanses of the Ursern Valley.

The Gändli bench above Andermatt
The Gändli bench sits above Andermatt, combining mountain views with easy proximity to the village. After exploring the surrounding area, visitors can pause and reflect in this peaceful setting.

A valley steeped in history

The Ursern Valley is more than a remote high-altitude valley: for centuries, it has been a key crossroads in the Alps. Trade routes and mule tracks wound through the region, while the Schöllenen Gorge presented a formidable natural challenge to those travelling to the Gotthard.
The development of a route through the gorge and the construction of the Teufelsbrücke, or Devil’s Bridge, helped establish the valley as an important link between north and south. Today, historic paths, churches, chapels and museums bear witness to this past, while the landscape retains its serene beauty.

Three museums, three perspectives on the Ursern Valley

The Ursern Valley's attractions are not limited to its trails and landscapes. Three museums in the area offer different perspectives on the valley, its residents and the significance of the Gotthard. They are well worth a visit on overcast days and add a cultural dimension to a stay in the region.

• Ursern Valley Museum: Set in historic rooms, the museum offers an insight into domestic life, local customs and everyday life in a valley shaped by its alpine surroundings.
• National Gotthard Museum: The museum explores the Gotthard’s significance as a transport route, cultural region and link between north and south.
• Sasso San Gottardo: The hidden history of the Gotthard comes to life at Sasso San Gottardo in impressive tunnels and rock caverns.

Famous connections to the Ursern Valley

The landscape around Andermatt has inspired travellers, writers and filmmakers. In the 18th century, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe recognised its distinctive blend of alpine drama and quiet beauty. Centuries later, the Furka Pass became part of international film history thanks to its appearance in the James Bond classic Goldfinger. These legacies, in their own way, both bring to life the special allure of the Ursern Valley.

A day in the Urseren Valley

A day in the Ursern Valley can begin at a leisurely pace with a stroll through Andermatt and a first view of its rooftops and surrounding slopes. From there, continue to Hospental, then visit a museum or take a detour to the Schöllenen Gorge for a different perspective on the region. On a clear day, a drive over one of the Alpine passes offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. In the evening, return to The Chedi Andermatt to unwind in the spa, enjoy the open fire and savour the hotel’s cuisine.

The Chedi Andermatt – a retreat in the Alps

The Chedi Andermatt is well placed for exploring the region, with an atmosphere of warmth, tranquillity and understated luxury to return to afterwards. Spacious rooms and suites offer privacy, while the 2,400-square-metre Spa & Health Club provides a soothing retreat after active days in the mountains. On request, the concierge team can arrange excursions, museum visits, scenic drives over the Alpine passes and seasonal experiences.

Book your stay at The Chedi Andermatt today

Frequently asked questions about the Urseren Valley

Where is the Urseren Valley?

The Urseren Valley is located in the canton of Uri in the Swiss Alps. Andermatt is at the heart of this region, which is characterised by major Alpine passes and the Schöllenen Gorge.

What is there to do in the Urseren Valley?

The Ursern Valley offers a mix of outdoor and cultural experiences, including walks, viewpoints, scenic drives over the Alpine passes, museums, churches and chapels, and the Schöllenen Gorge. Activities vary with the season.

What attractions are there in the Ursern Valley?

Key attractions include the Schöllenen Gorge and Devil’s Bridge, the Ursern Valley Museum, museums around the Gotthard, historic churches and chapels, and viewpoints across the valley.

Which Alpine passes can be reached from the Urseren Valley?

From Andermatt, major routes lead to the Gotthard Pass, Furka Pass and Oberalp Pass. Depending on the season and weather conditions, these routes offer impressive panoramic views and access to different parts of the Swiss Alps.

When is the best time to visit the Ursern Valley?

The Ursern Valley can be enjoyed all year round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are well suited to walks, mountain lakes and exploring the Alpine passes. In autumn, clear light and colourful slopes shape the landscape. Winter brings snow, tranquillity and alpine sports.