5 Highlights of the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge
- The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps, measuring nearly 500 m.
- It connects Grächen and Zermatt via the spectacular Europaweg, one of the most beautiful two-day hiking routes in Switzerland.
- Access to the suspension bridge is free.
- In the middle of the bridge, you have a direct view of the Weisshorn and the stunning mountain scenery of the Mattertal.
- The transparent floor provides a unique thrill, and the bridge can be reached on foot from Randa.
What to Expect at the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge
The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge spans an impressive 494 m, making it the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps. At a height of up to 85 m above the gorge, you'll need a good head for heights. However, those who dare to cross will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The crossing takes about 10 minutes.
The bridge is also known as the “Monument for the Mountain Panorama.” Its location offers an unforgettable view of the Weisshorn and the surrounding stunning mountain world of the Mattertal near Zermatt. The transparent floor adds an extra thrill and an unobstructed view down below.
Luckily, the bridge was designed to blend well with its natural surroundings and does not detract from the magnificent mountain panorama.
Blick von unten auf die Charles Kuonen Hängebrücke (Foto: Zermatt Tourismus Valentin Flauraud
Blick von oben auf die Charles Kuonen Hängebrücke (Foto: Zermatt Tourismus Valentin FlauraudThe best hikes to the Charles Kuonen suspension bridge
Round trip suspension bridge Randa (No. 69):
The circular trail starts at the train station in Randa and runs in the direction of the Europabrücke. You walk through beautiful larch forests and pass beautiful viewpoints. After the "Hohtschugga" viewpoint you reach the gigantic Charles Kuonen suspension bridge. After the suspension bridge you take the Domhüttenweg, which leads you back to Randa. Optionally, you can make a detour to the Europa Hut, which is located directly on the famous Europa Trail.
The trail is suitable for the whole family, provided that all participants are free from giddiness.
- Difficulty: medium
- Distance: 8.6 km
- Duration: 4:00 h
- Ascent / Descent: 988 (↑ hm) / 988 (↓ hm)
Europe Trail:
The Europaweg is a very well-known hiking trail that runs between Grächen and Zermatt. It is one of the most beautiful two-day tours in the Alps.
From Grächen you walk along varied and spectacular trails to the Europa Hut, which is located above Randa. This first stretch takes about 7 hours. The next day you start with the unforgettable highlight, the gigantic Charles Kuonen suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, you walk in the direction of Täschalp until you reach Zermatt. This route also takes about 6 -7 hours
- Difficulty: difficult
- Distance: 33.4 km
- Duration: 13:30 h
- Ascent / descent: 2550 (↑ hm) / 1882(↓ hm)
Vor der Charles Kuonen Hängebrücke (Foto: Zermatt Tourismus Valentin Flauraud)
Blick auf die Charles Kuonen Hängebrücke (Foto: Zermatt Tourismus Valentin Flauraud)For whom is the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge suitable?
Crossing the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is an unforgettable experience. Nevertheless, it is important that you are free from vertigo. If you are afraid of heights, this trip is not for you. The bridge has a transparent floor, so you have a continuous view of the up to 85 m below you. Moreover, the bridge is only 65 cm wide
Since dogs are often afraid of transparent floors, you have to judge for yourself whether you trust your dog to cross this bridge
During thunderstorms, the bridge may not be crossed due to possible lightning strikes. Otherwise, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is a great destination for the whole family