The Ziegenalpe in the Voldertal valley
The Glungezerbahn is back in operation and the herd of goats has been driven up to the mountain pasture – so we’re taking this as an opportunity to go for a walk to the Ziegenalpe with our younger daughter today.
We take the gondola for a comfortable ride up to the Halsmarter midway station. From there, the path first takes us briefly across the ski slope and then immediately turns left into the woods. That was already the steepest bit ;-)
Following the signs for ‘Zur Ziegenalpe’, the path joins a wide forest track and continues on level ground at a leisurely pace into the valley.
The views across the Voldertal valley are stunning. TIP: You can read more about the Voldertal in one of our blog posts!
A little bench for a rest invites you to linger.
It’s not far to the Ziegenalpe now, is it? Please always close the gate and keep dogs on a lead!
After about 30 minutes, we reach the Stalsins Alm. This is situated on a very steep slope, but can be reached easily via a footpath. However, anyone who thinks the goats are waiting for you here is mistaken! You’ll have to keep an eye out for them, as they like to seek shade just above the alpine pasture amongst the Swiss stone pines and wander around the slopes covered in alpine roses.
Interesting facts about the animals
There are 109 goats at Stalsins: peacock goats, Graubünden Strahlen goats, Blobe goats, Tauernscheck goats, chamois-coloured mountain goats and Toggenburg goats. The animals are always kept outdoors and are free to roam and climb. There are no fences. They are not fed, but are kept tame by the herdsman using treats, as there is a risk that goats will quickly become feral. After all, they are related to the chamois.
PLEASE NOTE: The Stalsins Alm is not open to the public. You can stop for refreshments at the starting point, the Alpengasthaus Halsmarter. If the children still have plenty of energy, they can let off steam there in the Kugelwald.
A few more details about the walk
A comfortable ride on the Glungezerbahn to the Halsmarter midway station at 1,560 m. Walking time one way: approx. 30 minutes. The Glungezerbahn operates daily from May to October, 9.00 am – 5.00 pm. The walk is not suitable for pushchairs. From the Stalsinsalm, a path continues up to the Tulfein Alm (2,035 m) and the Schartenkogel (2,308 m). However, this is only recommended for children who enjoy hiking and are sure-footed, as there is a considerable climb involved.