Bearded Vultures Up Close
Gemmi – home of the bearded vulture
Even in winter, the Gemmi is a hotspot for spotting bearded vultures in the wild. Against the white backdrop of the snow-covered landscape, the silhouettes of these majestic birds stand out particularly clearly. The open plateau and the thermal currents along the rock faces make encounters with this extraordinary bird particularly likely.
The Bearded Vulture and the Gemmi
With a wingspan of up to three meters, the bearded vulture is one of the most impressive birds in the Alps. As a specialized scavenger, it plays a vital role in the delicate balance of the high mountains. Winter is the breeding season for bearded vultures.
The updrafts that the bearded vulture uses for its gliding flights form along the Gemmiwand. Right next to the Gemmi Cable Car mountain station, on the ridge above the rock faces, you can observe the bird up close. Easily accessible and open year-round, the Gemmi is one of the best places in Switzerland to spot bearded vultures and a popular destination for nature lovers from Switzerland and abroad.
Guided bearded vulture watching
Our local guides will show you tips for spotting the birds and the best viewing spots. They’ll also share background information on the habits of this rare bird.
It becomes clear why the bearded vulture is found here: The Gemmi offers open rock faces, suitable updrafts, an ample food supply, and an intact ecosystem. The guided tours provide a deeper understanding of the connections between wildlife and the landscape.
Introductory photography workshop in the habitat of the bearded vulture
Discover the fascinating world of nature and bird photography on the Gemmi with wildlife photographer Hansruedi Weyrich.
Photography in the habitat of the bearded vulture (Winter)
Photograph birds in flight against an alpine backdrop. Spend three days in the bearded vulture’s habitat with Hansruedi Weyrich, refining your images in a small group and making the most of the winter light.
Wildlife and bird photography on the Gemmi (Autumn)
Bearded vultures, ibex and alpine autumn light: three days of wildlife photography with Hansruedi Weyrich in a small group. Gemmi Guide Reini joins you on two days.
Bearded vulture excursion | On request
Look up and see the mountains with fresh eyes. Discover the bearded vulture and its alpine habitat with your Gemmi Guide on a private half-day excursion for your group.
Observe individual bearded vultures
The Gemmi offers ideal conditions for observing bearded vultures even without a professional guide. The clear winter air and the stark contrast between the birds’ plumage and the snow make them easy to spot. The open horizon of the high plateau and the striking rock faces allow for regular sightings, often with the naked eye. The area is easily accessible year-round.
With patience, binoculars, and respect for the alpine habitat, your visit will turn into a memorable wildlife encounter.
