Ferden
The village of Ferden and the hamlet of Goppenstein form the gateway to the Lötschental, and together constitute the second-largest municipality in the valley.
Ferden consists of an old village centre that is classified as a site of national importance, and also includes newer buildings along the valley road and at the edges of the settlement. Goppenstein was once home to lead mines; today, the car transport loading station is known worldwide as the southern entry point to the Lötschberg tunnel. Until the beginning of the 20th century, most of the population lived from agriculture. Today, they work as railway employees in Goppenstein, factory workers in Steg, employees of Lonza AG in Visp, and in tourism and small businesses.
Until the opening of the Lötschberg tunnel in 1913, the Lötschental was very difficult to reach. Much of the valley was therefore unspoilt when it was later opened to tourism. Today, the Lötschental has extremely well-developed tourist facilities. In winter, guests and locals can enjoy the Lauchernalp ski area, where snow is guaranteed. In summer, the Lötschental is the starting point for some wonderful hiking tours.
Costums in Ferden
Altitude: |
1'400 (m. above sea level): |
Number of inhabitants (as of 31.12.2023): |
253 |
Languages of municipal administration: |
German, French, English |
Travel time by car to/from Visp: |
29 min |
Distance by car to/from Visp: |
25 km |
Gemeinde Ferden
Leischa 1b
3916 Ferden
Phone: +41 (0)27 939 12 58
gemeinde@ferden.ch
www.ferden.ch