Bister
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Access
The municipality can be reached by road (local and cantonal connections) and by train on the Furka-Oberalp line, with stops in the nearby towns of Mörel and Grengiols. From here there is access to the main communication routes in the Valais and to transport networks that allow you to visit the entire region, which is known for its hiking and cultural attraction. The services are essential and are integrated with the infrastructure of the neighbouring villages; the presence of parking spaces is limited, as is typical for mountain villages.
Introduction
Bister is a small Swiss municipality located in the Canton of Valais, in the district of Raron Orientale, surrounded by an alpine environment that favours a peaceful and rural atmosphere. The municipal territory covers an area of 5.8 km² at an altitude of 1,054 metres, embedded in a region characterised by high mountain scenery and a strong presence of alpine pastures, forests and meadows. The geological and natural context mirrors that of the side valleys of the Valais, where historically the famous 'bisses', ancient irrigation canals that testify to the local communities' ability to adapt to the environment, were built. The location of Bister, between the municipalities of Grengiols, Mörel-Filet and Termen, places it on the edge of one of the most attractive areas for those wishing to immerse themselves in Alpine nature: its proximity to the Aletsch Glacier and the Bettmerhorn massif offers opportunities for excursions in areas of great scenic significance.
.Description
The village of Bister has documented origins as far back as the 19th century; in 1818, the locality of Bedle was demerged from its territory to be assigned to the neighbouring municipality of Grengiols, bringing out the administrative and social structure linked to the tradition of Alpine patrician municipalities, in which the original families were responsible for the upkeep of the commons. The inhabitants of Bister have historically been dedicated to livestock farming and mountain agriculture, enriching the local culture with festivals and traditions linked to the cycle of the seasons and agricultural activities. The German dialect remains the official language and in daily use, while devotions and religious festivities fit into the local calendar, following the rhythm of Alpine community life.
In the context of tourism and hiking, Bister offers direct access to routes leading into the heart of the Aletsch Arena and to vantage points such as Eggishorn, one of the most famous in the Valais Alps. In the surrounding area, hiking trails are easily accessible and allow you to discover the natural and historical peculiarities of the region, with views ranging from large glaciers to valleys rich in biodiversity. The hiking trails are passable from spring to autumn, with access to cable car services from the neighbouring railway stations.
Curiosity: Bister's population density is extremely low, less than 6 inhabitants per km², making the municipality one of the smallest not only in the Valais but in the whole of Switzerland in terms of population. The territory is managed according to the patrician tradition, with a focus on the protection of natural resources and the historical preservation of each commune.
Information
Area: 5.81 km²
Altitude: 1054m
Maximum elevation: 2.951m - Bättlihorn
Number of inhabitants: 30
Name in dialect:
Patron Saint:
Neighbouring municipalities:Grengiols, Mörel-Filet
Internet site: