The city of Brig in Switzerland is also known by its official name of Brig-Glis. It is located 90 kilometres from the Swiss city of Interlaken, and approximately 25 kilometres from the Italian border. Brig-Glis on the banks of the River Rhône is in the perfect location to explore the beauty of the Alps, the Simplon Pass and Italian Lakes. With a charming historic quarter, exquisite palaces, thermal baths, shopping and extensive dining options, it is an area of Switzerland which shouldn’t be overlooked.

The old town of Brig is abundant with stately houses, quaint inns and picture postcard residences. One of the city’s highlights is Stockalper Palace, built by merchant prince Kaspar Jodok von Stockalper. The prince made his fortune primarily through trading silk and salt along the Simplon Pass. The palace is a heritage site of national significance and is ominous and imposing from the outside, yet inside resembles a small village. Its courtyard is surrounded by archways, balconies and cobbled terraces. The trio of towers named for the Three Kings or Wise Men is visible from a great distance. Gardens are beautifully landscaped with hedgerows and plants and a pleasure to stroll around. Exploring outside the city, Brigerbad has one of the largest open-air thermal spas in Switzerland. Surrounded by lush Alpine forests, the entire family can enjoy an array of outdoor water chutes, spa facilities and Olympic-size swimming pools. Visitors interested in exploring the local area by car should drive the 35 kilometres long Simplon Pass from Brig to Gondo. The scenery is spectacular and affords incredible photographic opportunities. The old town of Brig is peppered with independent shops, venture to Bahnhofstrasse for the best retail experience. Brig is also an ideal starting point for adventurers who wish to visit the world-renowned ski resorts of Saas-Fee and Zermatt.

It is possible to walk around Brig, as the historic town is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Stockalper Palace can be reached in under 5 minutes from the centre. Buses operate throughout the city, and there’s a train station for those wishing to venture further afield. The vibrant Swiss city of Interlaken can be reached in just over 1 hour by rail.

Brig derives from the word “bridge”. It is a city thought to date back to the Bronze Age. The area of the city known as Glis dates to the same time and the Iron Age. Today, visitors arrive to explore the natural scenic beauty of the Alps and the old-world charm of this attractive city. Many decide to remain longer than intended due to its ambience and areas of local interest.