Discover Matten

Matten combines cultural themes with activities in the mountains. In the Matten section of the Simmental Heritage Trail, historic houses are part of the village’s character; a circular cycling tour connects Matten, Gfell and St. Stephan. When there is sufficient snow, the ski tour to the Albristhubel starts directly in Matten. When planning your stay, you can choose between architecture, summer routes and winter tours.

Hiking and outdoor activities in summer

In summer, hikers and nature lovers can explore the Fermeltal and lush alpine meadows in the St. Stephan and Matten area. The valley is sparsely populated; traditional houses and seclusion define its character. This gives the region a different focus from the cycling tour through Matten and Gfell.

A route from Lenk to Matten starts at the Boden train stop. It leads across fields and through the forest to Schadauli, then along a small road to Matten. Matten is accessible by train. Hikers can take the train from Matten, St. Stephan station, back to the starting point.

Cycling tour between Matten and Gfell

The Matten–Gfell–St. Stephan–Matten circular route first follows a paved climb towards the Färmeltal. From there, it continues along a gravel road to Gfell. On the return from St. Stephan, the route is flat on a cycle path across the old military airfield to Matten. The route therefore clearly distinguishes between the climb and the flat section of the return ride.

The circular route is entirely on gravel or asphalt and has no technical difficulties. This information helps you assess the character of the route without specifying a walking or cycling time.

Ski touring with mountain views

When there is sufficient snow, the ski tour to the Albristhubel starts directly in Matten. From the summit, the panorama takes in the Spillgerten, Albristhore, Wistätthore and Wildstrubel massif. The starting point in the village and the viewpoint at the summit provide two distinct reference points for planning your winter trip.

The Simmental Heritage Trail and local traditions

The Matten section of the Simmental Heritage Trail includes the farmhouse at Lenkstrasse 117. It dates from around 1675 and has three wide front parlours and carved friezes. These details make the house more than just a name along the trail: they draw attention both to its age and to the design of its façade and interiors.

Another house at Lenkstrasse 116 has a simple, symmetrical façade and was restored in 1979. The contrast between the two houses lies in their described architectural features and history. In St. Stephan and Matten, mountain farming and yodelling are also traditional customs practised and maintained by the local population.

Crafts and visits by arrangement

In Matten, a visit to Therese Griessen’s paper-cutting studio is possible by arrangement. Please check availability before your visit. Towel weaving is offered at the Webatelier Obersimmental at Dorfstrasse 19, 3773 Matten. Before planning, check the schedule for the seasonal summer and autumn 2026 programme.

Visiting conditions differ: an enquiry is required for the paper-cutting studio, while towel weaving is offered seasonally. If these activities are important for your trip, take their respective conditions into account when planning your schedule.

Discover more travel destinations: St. Stephan, Boltigen, Lenk, Zweisimmen.

For the overall travel overview: Obersimmental.