Discover your perfect stay in Orsieres.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Orsieres
Find the perfect place to stay in Orsieres



Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Orsieres
In Osservatorio, the top choice for families is Hotel Les Arolles, a mountain resort offering indoor and outdoor hot spring pools, children's playrooms, and family-oriented activities like alpine crafts workshops. Located just steps from the Osservatorio Lake, the hotel provides panoramic views of the Matterhorn and easy access to hiking trails suitable for all ages.
The property also features local cuisine experiences, including traditional Valais sausage and cheese fondue, allowing guests to immerse themselves in regional culture. With its warm hospitality and nature-integrated design, it’s perfect for a relaxing yet enriching family getaway in the Swiss Alps.
The best scenic area for hotels in Osservatorio is the Brig-Osservatorio foothills zone, where properties like Hotel Alpenhof boast floor-to-ceiling windows facing the majestic Matterhorn. This location offers uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks, especially during sunrise and starlit nights.
The area is also close to the historic Old Market Square, charming wooden houses, and the St. Bernard Church. Guests can enjoy peaceful walks through stone-paved alleys while soaking in the serene mountain ambiance. For those seeking both luxury and breathtaking vistas, this district is ideal for romantic getaways or photography enthusiasts.
In Osservatorio, visitors must experience the annual Alpabzug Festival, a traditional summer event where herders lead cattle through the village accompanied by folk music and handmade wool hats. It showcases the deep-rooted Valais pastoral heritage.
Additionally, join a hands-on wood carving workshop led by local artisans, crafting symbolic alpine saints’ figures. For nature lovers, the Osservatorio Glacier Trail features interpretive signs explaining glacial formations and native flora like the alpine gentian. These immersive experiences reveal how locals have lived in harmony with the harsh Alpine environment for centuries.
For winter stays, Hotel Glacier View stands out, located directly at the heart of the Osservatorio Ski Area with private ski-in/ski-out access and heated corridors. Rooms feature fireplaces and premium down bedding for ultimate warmth.
Daily free hot chocolate and homemade cookies are served, and the hotel organizes guided snow-lit lantern tours through historic paths, illuminating snow-covered chalets and churches. Additionally, their partnership with Alpine sledding excursions makes it a favorite among families seeking authentic Swiss winter adventures.
Hotel de la Poste is the most historically significant hotel in Osservatorio, originally built in the 18th century as a post office and inn. The building retains original timber framing, stone walls, and antique fireplaces, blending old-world charm with modern comfort.
Located near the Old Market Square, it’s within walking distance of the St. Bernard Church and the Ancient Bell Tower. Guests can hear the morning bell chimes echoing across the valley. Staying here is not just accommodation—it’s a journey into the past, ideal for travelers passionate about architecture and heritage.
In Osservatorio, don’t miss the Valais Cheese Tasting Night, hosted monthly in a historic wine cellar or hotel dining room. Sample aged Valais Blue Cheese and fresh mountain cheese, paired with locally brewed rye beer.
Another must-do is the Forest Mushroom Foraging & Picnic, where experienced guides lead guests through alpine woods to find porcini and chanterelles, then prepare a meal using the harvest on a mountain terrace. These culinary adventures deepen your connection to the region’s natural resources and traditional food wisdom.
For hikers, Alpine Huts & Hotel Ritz is the top pick, situated at the trailhead of major Alpine routes leading to Glacier Lake and Brig Pass. The hotel offers free gear rental, daily trail planning assistance, and guided hikes through pristine mountain terrain.
Rooms include moisture-resistant flooring and climate-controlled storage for outerwear. A communal lounge encourages hikers to share stories and exchange tips. Monthly Hiker Gatherings bring together adventurers from around the world, creating a vibrant outdoor community atmosphere.
Many hotels in Osservatorio embrace sustainable architecture—like Hotel Bergstube, constructed from locally sourced larch wood and stone, with natural insulation and solar panels on the roof. Rainwater harvesting systems support garden irrigation.
All hotels follow a zero-plastic policy, replacing disposables with bamboo toothbrushes and glass dispensers. Some even maintain ecological gardens with native herbs and pollinator plants, supporting biodiversity. These eco-conscious practices reflect Osservatorio’s identity as a green mountain town committed to environmental stewardship.
In Osservatorio, the highlight is the Night Lantern Procession, held monthly in winter, where locals carry traditional wooden torches along ancient paths, lighting up snow-draped villages and holiday stalls.
Another unique event is the Mountain Tales Lecture, hosted in the former post office library, where storytellers share regional legends—like the tale of the Snow Guardian Spirit—accompanied by live alphorn music. These events preserve oral traditions and create a magical, intimate atmosphere under the stars.
Yes, top hotels in Osservatorio provide multilingual support in English, French, German, and Chinese. Properties like Hotel Alpenhof and Hotel Les Arolles employ staff fluent in four languages and offer multilingual guides and digital translation tools.
Some hotels even rent out on-site voice translators for museum visits or guided tours, ensuring seamless communication. Menus, signage, and digital interfaces are available in multiple languages, making international travelers feel welcome and informed throughout their stay.
Ausserberg is a charming mountain village in the Valais region of Switzerland, situated at an altitude of about 1,000 meters above the Rhone Valley. Known for its stunning Alpine scenery, traditional Swiss chalets, and tranquil rural atmosphere, Ausserberg is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, skiing, and experiencing authentic Swiss mountain culture.
The main attractions in Ausserberg include Belalp, a renowned ski resort that offers superb slopes in winter and fantastic hiking trails in summer. The vineyards of the Rhone Valley are also worth visiting, producing some of Switzerland's finest wines. Don't miss the chance to explore the traditional wooden houses that showcase the unique charm of Swiss mountain villages.
Ausserberg's culinary scene is deeply influenced by Swiss and Valais traditions. Be sure to try Fondue and Raclette, two iconic Swiss dishes. Local restaurants also serve specialties like Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) and Rösti (potato pancakes). Pair your meal with a glass of white wine from the Valais region for a complete local experience.
Getting around Ausserberg primarily relies on buses and cable cars. You can easily reach Ausserberg by bus from Brig, with a journey time of about 30 minutes. To get to Belalp, take the cable car, which also offers breathtaking mountain views. Driving is another option, but be cautious of snowy roads in winter. Check bus and cable car schedules in advance to plan your trip smoothly.
The best times to visit Ausserberg are winter (December to March) and summer (June to September). Winter is perfect for skiing and snow activities, while summer is ideal for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. Spring and autumn have more unpredictable weather and fewer tourists, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter experience.
The official language in Ausserberg is German, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Internet coverage is good, with most hotels and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi. The currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), and credit cards are accepted in most places, though cash is preferred for small transactions. In emergencies, dial 112 or 144 (ambulance). Pharmacies are marked "Apotheke," and a doctor's prescription is required for certain medications. Tap water is safe to drink, and bringing a reusable water bottle is encouraged for environmental reasons.