Binn
Intro
The Binn Valley in Upper Valais is a wild and romantic side valley of Goms. The valley is a paradise for nature lovers and in particular for those in seek of minerals and precious mountain crystals. Hikers, too, discover this remote valley to be a worthwhile destination for an interesting visit.
Since the 18th century the Binn Valley, which branches off direction south from Goms at the height of Fiesch, is a known place owing to the large number of diverse minerals found here. Many a first discovery stems from this particular spot. And anyone who walks with open eyes through the valley, not only witnesses a wealth of different flora and fauna but, with a bit of luck, is likely to take a colorful stone or possibly even a crystal home with them as fond memory of their visit. Typical finds in this area are exhibited along the geology trail from Imfeld to the Lengenbach mineral mine. The mineral mine also attracts families with children, as these are often in seek of what’s commonly known as "fool's gold".
The valley and village of Binn, connected courtesy of PostBus services, have only been accessible year-round since the construction of the road tunnel in 1965. The only hotel in the valley, the historic and carefully restored Hotel Ofenhorn in Binn, was built in Belle Epoque style way back in 1883. First guests welcomed here were chiefly from England – one of whom Winston Churchill, who of course later became Prime Minister.
On the southern slope of Goms, at the entrance to the Binn Valley, lays the mountain village of Ernen. A neat little village, with the parish church visible from afar, in fact awarded a prize for its particularly well-preserved village image. Here, since more than 25 years, annual concerts and master classes with renowned names in classical music have taken place in the "Music Village" Ernen.
