The Charles Kuonen bridge is a record breaking 494 metres in length. At 85 metres at the highest point, and stretching out over the deepest cut valley in Switzerland, it's sure to be a hit with steel-nerved hikers.
Local firm, SWISSROPE erected the bridge in only 10 weeks, showing Swiss engineering at its best and making the bridge available to visitors for the 2017 summer season. The task was undertaken by the same company who recently installed a similar (if smaller) bridge at Furi, across the valley from Zermatt, which hangs 90 metres above the Gornerschlucht gorge.
The new connection between Grächen and Zermatt provides a unique perspective on the breathtaking surroundings of the Swiss Alps, including distant views of the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Bernese Alps.
The half kilometre span is not for the fainthearted, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Either as part of the famous 2 day Europaweg hike, or a more manageable 2 - 2.5 hours from Randa, the bridge offers an experience like no other.
At just over 2000 metres above sea level, visitors are treated to unparalleled panoramas of the mountain peaks. And don't forget the lush alpine landscape below, if you're brave enough to look down.
The lure of traversing a record breaking suspension bridge is difficult to resist. Just steer clear during lightening storms and you'll be in for a exciting, if slightly terrifying, time.
