Goms
Goms is a high alpine valley region in the Upper Valais (Oberwallis) of Switzerland, nestled between the majestic Alps and the young Rhône river. The region is made up of two municipalities, Obergoms and Goms, and comprises thirteen characterful mountain villages from Gletsch at the gateway to the three passes down to Niederwald. It is a rural, nature-dominated high valley rather than an urban centre, with no big cities. The region is defined by its river, the young Rhône, and by the three great Alpine passes of Grimsel, Furka and Nufenen that connect north and south. Goms is known for its traditional mountain villages, historic churches and chapels, and a rich cultural heritage of customs and craftsmanship. The valley offers extensive hiking and biking networks, water activities on lakes and rivers, and is one of Switzerland's leading cross-country skiing destinations. Central hubs include the villages of Oberwald, Ulrichen, Obergesteln, Münster and Reckingen.
Summer activities
In summer and autumn the Goms high valley offers over 400 kilometres of signposted hiking trails between 1200 and 3000 metres, from gentle walks through rustic mountain villages to alpine tours and pass crossings. The region is a cycling and mountain-biking paradise, with routes along the Rhône and challenging climbs over the Furka, Grimsel and Nufenen passes, plus the Stoneman Glaciara bike adventure. Water lovers can fish in clear mountain lakes and rivers such as the Totensee or the Aegina, go river rafting on the wild Rhône, or relax in the crystal-clear Geschinersee or the swimming pool. There is also a 3 km roller-skiing track at the Nordic Centre Goms, a skating route between Oberwald and Reckingen, and an outdoor climbing garden near Gletsch.
Winter activities
Goms is one of Switzerland's leading cross-country skiing destinations, with over 100 kilometres of perfectly prepared classic and skating trails stretching across the entire high valley from Oberwald to Niederwald. The Nordic Centre Goms and the International Gommerlauf, a traditional cross-country race held every year on the last weekend of February, anchor the winter offer. Beyond the trails, the region offers winter hiking through snowy forests, snowshoeing, tobogganing and downhill skiing, with ski passes available for the nearby Aletsch Arena.
Culture and entertainment
The Goms high valley keeps its history alive through numerous museums, living customs and traditions. Historic churches, chapels and lovingly maintained village centres invite discovery, while cultural associations and exhibitions offer deeper insight into the region's rich heritage. Music plays a lively role, from fanfares and rock festivals to church concerts, and the Cinéma Sibir in Reckingen screens films about the old Goms. A varied programme of events spans sport, art, culture, history and gastronomy, including concerts, exhibitions and traditional festivals.
