Lac Souterrain
This full-day road trip starts at the Nordic Centre in Obergoms and follows the route down toward the Rhone Valley. The first stop is the Milibach Suspension Bridge in Eischoll, offering a scenic mountain view from a 260-metre-long bridge with a viewing platform. Next, you visit Lac Souterrain in St-Léonard, Europe’s largest natural navigable underground lake, explored by boat on a guided tour. The route continues to the Christ the King statue in Lens, known for its chapel, symbolic hilltop setting, and panoramic 360° views over the valley. Finally, you stop in Raron to see the Rock Church of St. Michael (and optionally climb to the Castle Church and Rilke’s grave), with the whole itinerary taking about 7–8 hours including breaks and lunch.
Stop 1 – Milibach Suspension Bridge, Eischoll
Drive time from Obergoms: approx. 45 min / Parking: free in Eischoll / Walk: 5–10 min to the bridge
The Milibach suspension bridge connects the two hiking areas of Eischoll and Unterbäch. It is 260 metres long and 65 metres high. In the middle there is a viewing platform. The view from the bridge over the surrounding mountains—including the pyramid-shaped Bietschhorn—is stunning.
Stop 2 – Lac Souterrain (Underground Lake), St-Léonard
Drive time from Eischoll: approx. 25 min / Parking: free, directly at the entrance (about 100 m)
This underground lake lies 30 to 70 metres beneath the vineyards and, at 300 metres in length, is the largest natural navigable underground lake in Europe. During a 30-minute guided tour, visitors glide across the clear water in a boat and discover the secrets of the grotto.
Opening hours: Open daily 10:00–17:00.
Stop 3 – Christ the King Statue (Statue du Christ-Roi), Lens
Drive time from St-Léonard: approx. 20 min / Parking: Pramounir car park in Lens (free) / Walk: approx. 15 min, gently uphill
What makes it special?
The Christ the King statue stands on the summit of the Colline du Châtelard at 1,272 m above sea level, symbolically high above the Rhone Valley, and is intended to commemorate the 1,900th anniversary of the death of Jesus Christ. In the base there is a chapel featuring the 13 coats of arms of the Canton of Valais as well as images of saints. On top of that, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking 360° view over the entire Rhone Valley.
By the way: The statue was a filming location for the cult TV series “Tschugger”—guaranteed conversation starter for the group!
Stop 4 – Rock Church of St. Michael, Raron
Drive time from Lens: approx. 20 min / Parking: free / Walk: Rock church on level ground; hilltop castle church approx. 10–15 min ascent
The Rock Church of St. Michael is the largest modern-era place of worship built entirely inside a rock, with seating for 500 people. Open daily 08:00–18:30.
Optional climb: If you don’t mind the ascent, the Castle Church of St. Romanus sits on top of the rock. You’ll also find the grave of the poet Rainer Maria Rilke there.
