252 Obstacle-Free Rottenweg Trail: Oberwald–Reckingen

Oberwald, located at the foot of the two Alpine passes Grimsel and Furka, is the first village in the Goms and the starting point of the hike. With the Grand Hotel Glacier du Rhône in Gletsch and the Belvédère at the Furka Pass, Oberwald has been one of the pioneer communities of tourism in the Alps since 1850. Along the Rhone and through meadows, the route leads to Obergesteln. The view of the impressive Rhone Glacier and the surrounding peaks makes the place a particularly beautiful hiking destination.

The next village on the way is Ulrichen, with the Nufenen and Gries passes the gateway to the south. The charming place on the banks of the Rhone is characterized by traditional Valais architecture. For a long time, Ulrichen was almost "besieged" by the Swiss army: until 1999 there was a military airfield here. It has since been partially dismantled and the former military area is used for recreational activities. Among other things, the Nordic center was created, where cross-country skiing races of almost every category take place.

Further downstream, the path leads to Geschinen, which impresses with its quiet location and proximity to the Rhone. Just before the village: the artificial Geschinen lake with barbecue area, lawn, and tables. A comfortable path runs all around, which can be used with strollers and wheelchairs. Did you know? When a retaining dam was built because of the threat of avalanches, the material for it was taken from the former military airfield. The hole left behind was filled with water and turned into a popular bathing lake with a separated biotope.

In Reckingen, the oldest mountain village of the Goms, the excursion ends. The place, which extends across the valley floor, was mainly shaped by art: the bell casting once had a tradition here, as well as sculpture and organ building. The church (1743-1745) is considered the most significant baroque sacred building of Upper Valais.