Oberer Mattbachfall â The Hidden 65âMeter Jewel of Flims, Grisons
If youâre chasing the sound of rushing water in the Swiss Alps, the Oberer Mattbachfall in Flims, Grisons, should be at the top of your list. With a dramatic 65âmeter drop, pristine alpine surroundings and easy access from the charming village of Flims, this waterfall offers a perfect blend of adventure, photography, and pure tranquility.
1. Introduction
Imagine standing on a mossâcovered rock, the mist kissing your face, while a powerful cascade tumbles 65 metres into a crystalâclear pool below. Thatâs the experience waiting at Oberer Mattbachfall, one of the most spectacular yet underrated waterfalls in the canton of Grisons (GraubĂŒnden). Nestled in the heart of the FlimsâLaaxâFilisur region, the waterfall is part of the MattbachâFalls system, a series of waterâfalls that carve their way through the rugged limestone cliffs of the Swiss Alps. Whether youâre a seasoned hiker, a nature photographer, or simply a traveler looking for a serene spot away from the crowds, Oberer Mattbachfall delivers an unforgettable alpine encounter.
2. About Oberer Mattbachfall
Description
- Location: Flims, Grisons, Switzerland
- Coordinates: 46.965764âŻN,âŻ9.257112âŻE
- Height: 65âŻm (approximately 213âŻft)
- Type: Tiered mountain waterfall
The Oberer Mattbachfall (German for âUpper Mattbach Waterfallâ) drops from a high limestone ledge into a deep, turquoise pool that reflects the surrounding pineâfilled valleys. The water originates from the melting snow and rain that feed the Mattbach stream, which then plunges over the cliff in a single, powerful sheet before continuing downstream to the lower Mattbachfall.
History & Significance
While the exact historical records of the waterfall are limited, the MattbachâFalls have long been a natural landmark for locals and travelers alike. The name âMattbachâ derives from the German words Matt (meadow) and Bach (brook), hinting at the gentle valleys that give way to the roaring cascade. Over the years, the falls have become a beloved spot for hikers exploring the Flims area and a popular subject for landscape photographers capturing the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps.
The Oberer Mattbachfall is also part of the Swiss National Park buffer zone, meaning the surrounding environment is protected and maintained in its natural state. This status ensures that visitors can enjoy pristine alpine scenery while contributing to the conservation of the regionâs flora and fauna.
3. How to Get There
By Public Transport
- Train: Take the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) to Flims station. Flims lies on the scenic Rhaetian Railway line that connects Chur, St. Moritz and the Engadin valley.
- Bus: From Flims station, hop on the local PostBus (Bus 81) heading toward Laax or Filisur. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Mattbach stop â the nearest point to the trailhead.
By Car
- From Zurich: Drive via the A3 and A13 highways (ââŻ120âŻkm, about 1.5âŻh). Follow signs for Flims and park at the designated Mattbach parking area (a small lot just off the main road).
- From Chur: Take the A13 north, then exit toward Flims. The drive takes roughly 30âŻminutes.
On Foot
The final stretch to the waterfall is a short, wellâmarked alpine trail that starts from the parking area or bus stop. The path is mostly level with occasional gentle inclines, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Trail signs point toward âOberer Mattbachfallâ and the route is maintained by the local tourism office.
Tip: Keep a map or a GPS app handy (the coordinates 46.965764,âŻ9.257112 will guide you directly to the cascade).
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | Conditions | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (AprilâJune) | Snowmelt boosts water flow; surrounding meadows burst into wildflowers. | The waterfall is at its most powerful, and the air is fresh and crisp. |
| Summer (JulyâAugust) | Warm temperatures, longer daylight hours. | Ideal for photography; the pool at the base is inviting for a quick splash. |
| Autumn (SeptemberâOctober) | Fewer tourists, foliage turns golden. | The contrast of orangeâred leaves against the blue water creates striking images. |
| Winter (NovemberâMarch) | Possible ice formations; trail may be snowâcovered. | For the adventurous, frozen waterfalls offer a dramatic, otherworldly scene (check local conditions first). |
Peak recommendation: Late spring to early autumn (MayâSeptember) provides the most reliable trail conditions and the most impressive water volume.
5. What to Expect
The Senses
- Sound: A constant, soothing roar that grows louder as you approach the base.
- Sight: A vertical sheet of water plunging 65âŻm, framed by rugged limestone cliffs and emeraldâgreen moss. Sunlight often creates rainbows in the mist.
- Touch: A cool, refreshing spray that can be felt up closeâperfect for a quick misty photo session.
The Trail
The path to Oberer Mattbachfall is a short alpine walk (approximately 15â20âŻminutes each way). It winds through mixed pine and larch forests, with occasional viewpoints offering panoramas of the Flims valley. Signposts are in German and English, and the trail is maintained with boardwalk sections in wetter spots.
Wildlife
Because the area lies within a protected zone, you may spot alpine wildlife such as chamois, marmots, and a variety of birds (goldfinches, alpine choughs). Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the natural chorus.
6. Nearby Attractions
While Oberer Mattbachfall is the star of the show, the surrounding region offers several other natural gems that can be combined into a fullâday adventure:
| Attraction | Distance from Oberer Mattbachfall | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Unterer Mattbachfall | 0.6âŻkm | The âLower Mattbach Waterfallâ follows the same stream downstream, offering a gentler cascade and a quieter setting. |
| Isengrindfall | 1.4âŻkm | A hidden waterfall tucked behind a narrow gorge, perfect for those who love a bit of offâtheâbeatenâpath exploration. |
| Flims Village | 2âŻkm | A charming Alpine town with cafĂ©s, boutique shops, and the famous Flims Laax ski area (summer hiking, winter skiing). |
| Lake Cauma | 5âŻkm | A turquoise alpine lake renowned for its clear waters and familyâfriendly beach area. |
Explore More: For detailed directions and upâtoâdate opening information, check the official Flims tourism site or the respective Wikipedia pages:
- Unterer Mattbachfall (de)
- Isengrindfall (de)
7. Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Footwear | Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip; the trail can be slippery near the waterfall spray. |
| Timing | Arrive early (before 9âŻam) during summer to avoid the small crowd that gathers around the pool. |
| Photography | Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and capture vivid rainbows in the mist. A tripod helps for longâexposure shots of the cascade. |
| Safety | Stay on marked paths. The rocks at the base are wet and can be slippery. No swimming is allowed in the pool for safety reasons. |
| Weather | Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack a light rain jacket and check the forecast before heading out. |
| Leave No Trace | Carry a small trash bag and pack out any litter. The area is protected, and preserving its pristine condition is essential. |
| Local Cuisine | After your hike, treat yourself to a hearty Swiss rösti or a cheese fondue at one of Flimsâ traditional restaurants. |
| Accommodation | Flims offers a range of optionsâfrom cozy Alpine chalets to modern hotels. Booking ahead during peak season (JulyâAugust) is advisable. |
Final Thought
Oberer Mattbachfall may not have the fame of the Rhine Falls or the Staubbach, but its raw power, towering height, and serene alpine setting make it a mustâsee for anyone traveling through the Grisons region. Combine the waterfall with nearby attractions like Unterer Mattbachfall and Isengrindfall, and youâll experience a day of natural wonders that showcase the best of Swiss mountain scenery. Pack your hiking boots, bring a camera, and let the mist of Oberer Mattbachfall refresh your spirit.
Happy travels, and may the sound of the water guide you to new adventures!
