Shaped by the Aletsch Glacier

Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site

A jewel of nature

The Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site stands for the protection and preservation of the Alps in their purest form. It covers 824 km2 and comprises over 23 municipalities in Valais and the Bernese Oberland. There is an incredible level of biodiversity in this region, with over 900 species living here. Stunning mountain peaks, such as the Finsteraarhorn with a height of 4,273 metres, form the backdrop of a nature experience par excellence. This is one of the few areas of the Alps that still display virtually no signs of human influence and are recognised as special protected areas.

Aletsch Glacier – the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site

With a length of 20 kilometres and an area of 79 square kilometres, the Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps. This awe-inspiring natural wonder has been shaping the landscape for thousands of years and has left visible traces to this day, such as the striking moraines at the edge of the glacier. Besides its aesthetic splendour, the glacier plays a key role in climate protection. The consequences of climate change are clearly visible here, as the glacier loses up to 50 metres of its length every year.

A natural wonder in the Alps

The Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, is the heart of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. At an impressive 20 kilometres in length and with a volume of 10 billion tons of ice, it is the dominant feature of the region and wows visitors from all over the world. Embedded as it is in one of the most pristine natural landscapes in Switzerland, the glacier symbolises unspoilt nature and the efforts to protect this unique heritage. Superb hikes and sensational views make the Aletsch Arena a unique destination for anyone with an interest in nature and culture.

The region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, meaning that it is among the most valuable landscapes in the world. It is one of a total of 13 World Heritage Sites in Switzerland and one of the few areas in the Alpine region to have been preserved largely without human intervention. The following impressive facts show just how unique this natural heritage is:

The only World Heritage Site in the Canton of Valais
Comprises 23 municipalities, 15 of which are in Valais and eight in the Bernese Oberland
Outstanding public transport connections
9 mountains over 4,000 metres height in the area
Around 50 mountain peaks above 3,500 metres
At 4,273 metres, the Finsteraarhorn is the tallest mountain in the World Heritage Site
824 km2 World Heritage Site, 1,629 km2 World Heritage Region
350 km2 of glaciated area
Biodiversity hotspot with over 900 species counted

Aletsch Forest – a UNESCO nature experience

Aletsch Forest nestles gently on the slopes of the Aletsch Glacier and is another highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient forest, with its centuries-old Swiss stone pines, offers hikers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable nature experiences. The hiking trails lead through one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Switzerland and offer a unique combination of alpine flora and fauna. Aletsch Forest is a natural paradise where you can experience unspoilt nature and the protection of these valuable habitats from right up close.

World Nature Forum – your knowledge centre at the UNESCO World Heritage Site

At the World Nature Forum in Naters, you immerse yourself in the history and significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Through the interactive exhibitions you learn all about the Aletsch Glacier and nature conservation efforts. The Forum offers you exciting insights into the unique ecosystem of the World Heritage Site, and admission is free with the Aletsch Arena Guest Card. Prepare to be inspired by the diversity and stories to be found in the spectacular landscape of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region. With the Aletsch Arena Guest Card, you can not only visit the World Nature Forum free of charge, but you also qualify for numerous other benefits.

Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site up close

The Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous hiking trails that take you deep into the fascinating world of the Aletsch Glacier, the beautiful Aletsch Forest and the captivating nature of the region. Guided tours or individual hikes let you really immerse yourself in this unspoilt natural landscape.