Glarus Valley

Glarnerland

A broad Alpine valley stretching north-south between dramatic mountain peaks, offering lush meadows, rushing streams, and excellent infrastructure for outdoor activities. The valley represents the heart of the canton and is perfect for experiencing authentic Swiss Alpine landscape.

Things to do

• Hiking the Säntis Trail — Trek to the 2,502-meter Säntis peak via well-marked alpine paths offering panoramic views across the Appenzell Alps and northeastern Switzerland.
• Klöntal Lake Loop — A scenic valley walk around turquoise Klöntal lake surrounded by steep rock walls, combining easy walking with dramatic mountain photography opportunities.
• Rafting on the Linth River — Experience white-water rafting or kayaking on the glacier-fed Linth as it rushes through the valley, suitable for various skill levels.
• Mountaineering at Tödi — Climb the Glarus Alps' highest peak (3,614 meters) via alpine routes that require mountaineering experience and provide stunning glacier and rock scenery.
• Cycling the Valley Floor — Ride dedicated cycling paths following the Linth Valley floor between Glarus town and surrounding villages, ideal for leisurely family cycling.
• Climbing at Gärn Rocks — Access traditional and sport climbing routes on natural rock formations within the valley, popular with climbers of all skill levels.

Food to try

• Alpenkäse (Alpine Cheese) — Sample Glarus' famous hard Alpine cheese, traditionally made from unpasteurized milk in mountain dairies, with a nutty flavor and crumbly texture.
• Bratwurst and Rösti — Try locally-produced bratwurst paired with crispy rösti (shredded potato pancakes), a hearty Glarus Alpine staple found in mountain restaurants.
• Älplermagronen — Enjoy this regional pasta dish mixed with potatoes, cheese, and onions, then topped with applesauce—comfort food of valley farmers and herders.
• Ziegenkäse (Goat Cheese) — Taste small-scale goat cheese productions from local dairies, ranging from fresh and creamy to aged varieties with distinctive Alpine herb flavors.
• Kirsch and Zwetschgen — Sample local fruit brandies distilled from cherries and plums grown in the valley's microclimate, often sipped as digestifs after meals.

Local customs & good to know

• Sunday Alpine Processions — The valley maintains traditional Catholic processions and Alpine folk traditions; Sundays often feature community gatherings and religious observances deeply rooted in local identity.
• Valley Cowbell Traditions — Glarus valley cows wear distinctive hand-cast bells unique to each family; visitors may encounter bell-making workshops and hear the iconic sound defining Alpine pastures.
• Mountain Dairy Visits — Visit functioning alpine dairies (Sennereien) during summer months to witness traditional cheese-making; many offer tastings and explain centuries-old production methods.
• Local Dialect Awareness — The Glarus dialect differs markedly from standard German; locals appreciate visitors' attempts to engage with regional language and customs rather than assuming English.