Hidden among the majestic Swiss Alps, Leukerbad is a gem that charms visitors with its unique mix of relaxation and adventure. Famous for its high altitude thermal baths, among the largest in Europe, this resort offers warm and regenerating waters with panoramic views of the snowy peaks. But Leukerbad is not only synonymous with relaxation: in winter, its ski and snowboard runs attract fans of all levels, while in summer it turns into a paradise for lovers of excursions and outdoor sports.
With breathtaking alpine landscapes, a welcoming atmosphere and a wide range of activities for all seasons, Leukerbad is the ideal destination for an unforgettable holiday, whether you are looking for adrenaline or simply a moment of pure relaxation.
Ski and Spa: a combination always winning for a holiday that combines sports and relaxation, fun and well-being. Although there are not many ski resorts in the Alps that can boast an excellent spa offer.
Among these is undoubtedly LeukerbadIn Switzerland, which boasts the primacy of the largest spa and wellness centre in the Alps, a high altitude oasis where you can relax in a unique setting in the world.
To get an idea, from the 65 local springs flows every day 3,9 million liters of thermal water that comes to touch the 51° centigrade and go to fill the beauty of 30 thermal pools.
The Romans already appreciated the qualities of this water and in more recent times such as Sébastian Münster, Mark Twain, Thomas Cook, Lenin, James Baldwin, Herbert von Karajan and Eduard Zimmermann appreciated the beneficial virtues of the "Leukerbad Gold".
Wolfgang Goethe also took advantage of the warmth and beneficial properties of the thermal waters when he learned about the warm springs of Leukerbad while in Valais on the road to his trip to Italy. His house, on the village square, recalls the writer's stay in November 1779.
Today four public thermal facilities and numerous private pools are an irresistible invitation to relax after a day on skis, with a wide choice of treatments, ranging from classic to Ayurveda, passing through typically Valais therapies.
Index of Article
Terme di Leukerbad: Relax in the High Height
The Leukerbad Therme is the largest spa in the Alps. An oasis for the whole family with in total ten different pools of thermal water, including a children's thermal pool a slide. Water jets, hydromassage, Kneipp path and an Olympic pool. Here you can try theAqua Mystic: thermal baths in a mystical atmosphere.
Magical moments at the Leukerbad Terme with subtle steam clouds rising from hot springs, mysterious light effects risking the darkness of the night, music joins the water cruising with food and drinks that cheer the evening. The event is repeated every 30 days with the new moon on the sixth day of the week between 20 and until the touch of 23.
Walliser Alpentherme & Spa
The Walliser Alpentherme & Spa Instead they offer, in addition to the internal and external thermal baths, also a village of the Valais saunas that extends over 300 square meters with the architecture of a picturesque mountain village of the Canton Valais, with wooden chalets and slate roofs. Each cottage is a different sauna.
In the typical Spycher, the barn, you can take a herbal bath at about 70°C; in the alpine chalet the steam sauna is warm about 90°C; in a rustic Valais house you can take a steam bath at about 48°C, while in a stone mill with its wheel and the stream of ice water the environment is dry at 40°C. There is also a fountain with thermal water and the typical village inn "Gemmistube" to enjoy a refreshing drink in the meantime.
Skiing in Leukerbad: Plates and Tips for All Levels
In Leukerbad the athletes have at their disposal about 50 kilometers of slopes of the Torrent and the village. Thanks to its altitude and the quality of snow, the ski season here is long and guaranteed, perfect for those seeking emotions on the snow. The slopes are suitable for all levels: from beginners, who can take advantage of the dedicated areas and ski schools, to experts, who will find challenging descents and adrenaline off-piste.
- For beginners: The Erli area is perfect for those who approach the ski for the first time, with gentle slopes and ski lifts suitable for beginners.
- For intermediate skiers: The slopes of Torrent offer exciting descents and spectacular views, ideal for those who already have a certain experience.
- For experts: The black slopes, such as the "Schwalbennest", also test the most experienced skiers with technical and adrenaline tracks.
For freestylers, the park with jumps and rail offers hours of fun. Useful tip: buy the ski pass in advance online to save and take advantage of the thermal baths after a day on the slopes to relax your muscles.
Gemmi cross-country skiing
In addition to alpine skiing, Leukerbad offers excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing, with 25 km of tracked slopes that cross snow-covered landscapes. The Gemmi and its magical winter environment offer cross-country skiing trails, snowshoe trails and toboggan runs. From spring, the route between Gemmi and Kandersteg is a "must" for all winter hiking enthusiasts.
The Gemmi area is also ideal for the companies of the skiers, eager to climb the slopes of Balmhorn and Wildstrubel. But also in the village and in its surroundings there are numerous beaten winter trails, including the path of the thermal springs that through an imposing catwalk runs through the gorges of Dala, where you can discover, from spring to autumn, all the secrets on the origin of the properties of these waters, flowing between the various layers of rock.
Leukerbad in Summer: Excursions and Activities at the Open Air
When the snow melts, Leukerbad becomes a paradise for hikers and nature lovers and outdoor activities. With over 300 km of well-marked hiking trails, it is the ideal place to explore breathtaking alpine landscapes, lush forests and flowering pastures. Trekking enthusiasts can face the famous Torrent path, one of the most exciting excursions, while families can opt for simpler routes and suitable for everyone.
Among the most beautiful routes, the Gems Pass, an ancient alpine pass connecting Leukerbad to Kandersteg, offering spectacular views and a unique experience among the peaks. Climbing lovers can try on Ferrata del Daubenhorn, one of the highest routes in Europe.
For those who prefer more relaxing activities, alpine golf, forest walks and Nordic walking are perfect alternatives to enjoy the unspoilt nature of Leukerbad.
Where to sleep in Leukerbad: Top Hotels and Resorts
Leukerbad offers a wide range of accommodation options to meet every need and budget, ensuring a comfortable and unforgettable stay. For those looking for the ultimate in luxury, hotels like the Hotel & Wellness Alpentherme They combine elegant rooms with direct access to the thermal baths, offering a total relaxation experience. L‘Hotel Les Sources des Alpes is one of the most exclusive options, with a private spa and a gourmet restaurant. For a complete spa experience, the Walliser Alpentherme & Spa Hotel is ideal for those who want to combine comfort and well-being, while Therme 51 Hotel Physio & Spa, ideal for families and groups offers spacious rooms and direct access to the thermal baths.
Those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere can opt for comfortable pensions or chalets in alpine style, such as Hotels in Gemmi, known for its family atmosphere and traditional cuisine, and Hotel Viktoria, a friendly and convenient solution without sacrificing the quality of services.
Useful Tips to Visit Leukerbad: When To Go And What To Bring
When to Visit
Leukerbad is a perfect destination in every season:
- Winter (December-March): Ideal for ski and thermal lovers, with a magical atmosphere thanks to snow.
- Spring-Summer (May-September): Perfect for hiking, climbing and outdoor relaxation.
- Autumn (October-November): A quiet time to enjoy the thermal baths without the crowd and admire autumn colors.
What to Bring
- In winter: Ski technical clothing, thermal gloves, snow sunglasses and hiking boots.
- In summer: Trekking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Always useful: Spa swimsuit, a waterproof jacket and a camera to capture breathtaking views.
