World Nature Forum

Located in the picturesque town of Brig-Glis, the World Nature Forum is a modern interactive space dedicated to the majesty of the Alps. This venue in Switzerland serves as the official information center and UNESCO "base camp" for the Jungfrau-Aletsch region—the largest glacial massif in Europe.

World Nature Forum. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The museum offers visitors an immersive journey through time and space. Using cutting-edge technology, it tells the story of the formation of the Alps, the evolution of the climate, and the incredible biodiversity that stretches from high-altitude glaciers to the Mediterranean landscapes in the south of the country. It is a place where science meets art, creating a unique educational experience for every guest.

One of the main highlights of the forum is the massive panoramic hall with a 100 m² screen, where spectacular films about the region's nature are shown. Thanks to its contribution to environmental education, the museum was honored with a prestigious award for sustainable development in 2019, underscoring its status as one of the most significant cultural sites in the region.

For more details about your visit, booking group tours, or organizing special events, you can contact the center's staff directly. The team is always ready to assist with planning your visit to this unique space in Naters.

Below is the primary contact information for reaching the administration:

Inside the World Nature Forum, a deep dive into the world of high mountains awaits you. Be sure to visit the panoramic hall, where cinematic masterpieces are projected onto a giant screen, making you feel as though you are in the heart of the Aletsch Glacier. Interactive stations allow you to literally touch history with your hands: you can study the movement of ice masses and learn how the climate has changed over centuries.

Families with children will especially enjoy the play areas and the characters Berta, Fredi, and Yara, who explain the importance of water conservation and the protection of Alpine flora to young explorers in an accessible way. The museum actively involves visitors in environmental initiatives, directing part of its income to real climate protection projects, so every ticket purchased becomes a contribution to the planet's future.

For a deeper experience, you can book a two-hour guided tour, where a guide will reveal the secrets of how mountain ranges were formed. It is worth noting that holders of the Swiss Museum Pass and certain local guest cards can visit the exhibition free of charge, making this an excellent stop on any itinerary through the canton of Valais.

Reaching this modern science center is easy, as it is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from the Brig main railway station. The walk from the station takes about 5–10 minutes, making the museum accessible even for those visiting the region for just one day.

For those who prefer public transport, the local bus No. 1 runs from the station. You should get off at the "Aletsch Campus" stop, which is literally a minute's walk from the main entrance. If you are traveling with heavy luggage or simply prefer maximum comfort, taxis are always available at the station to take you to the forum's doors in a matter of minutes.

Travelers arriving by car can use the modern "Aletsch Campus" public parking lot located on Kehrstrasse, directly beneath the exhibition complex. This is particularly convenient for families and tour groups planning a longer exploration of the UNESCO exhibits in this part of the country.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the Jungfrau-Aletsch region, which in 2001 became the first natural site in the Alps to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Later, in 2005, the protected area was expanded, highlighting the exceptional value of these landscapes for all of humanity.

The World Nature Forum itself was conceived as a "base camp" for anyone wishing to understand the fragile balance of the mountain ecosystem. In 2019, the museum received the prestigious Sustainability Award as part of the "European Museum of the Year" competition. Experts noted the innovative approach to highlighting environmental issues and the careful attitude toward preserving natural heritage.

The museum's exhibits clearly demonstrate the journey of the Alps from their formation millions of years ago to the present day, when global climate changes are becoming the primary challenge for the glaciers. The museum serves as an important bridge between scientific research and the public's interest in the future of our planet.

To explore all the interactive installations and informational stands at a leisurely pace, most visitors need between 1.5 and 2 hours. If you plan to study every artifact in detail and watch all the videos in the panoramic hall, it is best to set aside about 2.5 hours for your visit.

Organized groups choosing a tour with a professional guide typically spend exactly 2 hours on their visit. In any case, even a short one-hour visit will provide a general overview of the majesty of the Alpine glaciers and the scale of UNESCO's activities in this region.

The museum is typically open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Monday is the traditional closing day when the exhibits are closed for technical maintenance.

Please note that the center is closed on December 25 and January 1. As the schedule may change depending on the season or special events, it is recommended to check the forum's official website for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

Brig-Glis and its surroundings offer many interesting spots that perfectly complement a visit to the World Nature Forum. A stroll through the historic town center allows you to soak in the atmosphere of old Switzerland and see architectural monuments from various eras.

Many attractions are within walking distance, making leisure planning easy and pleasant. Below is a list of nearby sites worth visiting: