Via Alpina Étape 14 : Kandersteg - Adelboden

The place

#### Kandersteg: An Escape between Tradition and Nature Kandersteg is a charming Swiss village nestled at the foot of the Lötschberg pass, which developed as a tourist destination thanks to the Lötschberg tunnel linking the valley to the Canton of Valais. This place is renowned for its traditional wooden houses and for picturesque hiking routes such as the one leading to Adelboden. #### Route through Flowering Meadows and Alpine Wildlife The hike begins at Kandersteg bus station and takes you along the railway tracks and a residential area to the Kander river. The route winds through idyllic banks and a forest before heading up towards the mountain pastures, beginning the ascent to the Bunderchrinde pass. #### Climb towards Breathtaking Views After crossing woods and gorges resembling a crevasse along the Alpbach stream, hikers arrive at the vast Usser Üschene plateau, dominated by the impressive Lohner massif. Continuing through the pastures, the initial two hours of walking reveal the first steep climbs towards Alpschele. The reward comes in the form of a spectacular view of Lake Oeschinen and the Blüemlisalp hut, with the Altels pyramid in the background. #### Adelboden: Alpine Jewel and Year-Round Destination The route finally leads hikers along a steep trail and the meadows of Vordere Bunder, then descends through the forest to Adelboden. This chalet village at the foot of the Wildstrubel is renowned for its impressive network of hiking trails and ski slopes, making it an attractive destination all year round. #### The Bunderchrinde Crossing: A Breathtaking Pass Reaching the Bunderchrinde pass at 2,382 metres, you are rewarded with a sweeping panoramic view over Adelboden and the Engstligental valley. The luckiest hikers may spot chamois bounding along the rock faces. The descent then follows a steep gravel path, before reaching the Bonderalp refuge and continuing down to Adelboden.