In order for the Lac de Dix to fill up, water must be fed from a number of glaciers in a catchment area of 420 km2 via 100-kilometer-long tunnels. Not only the water supply is a masterpiece of engineering, but above all the masonry, which is almost as high as the Eiffel Tower. The raw concrete power with which the dam monster stands in the landscape offers a remarkable contrast to the natural idyll of the 4000-meter mountains all around. It is not just the energy generated by the Grande Dixence that is fascinating, but above all the oppressive impression when you stand in front of the wall or dare to look down from the ridge.
Story
The largest artificial lake in Switzerland is located at almost 2400 meters above sea level and, at 285 meters, is the highest structure in Switzerland. A dam was already producing electricity at the same location in the 1930s. From 1951 to 1965, the management built the current dam monument, which was expanded again in the late 1990s. With a total output of 2000 MW, the dam produces about as much electricity as two nuclear power stations.
Access and activities
The best way to get to the bottom of the dam is by car. Then you can go to the top on foot or by cable car. Numerous activities such as a Tyrolean zip line, a climbing wall or a tour of the inside of the dam make for a well-packed half-day trip.
