Questions and answers about your hiking tour in Valais
Our most beautiful hiking tours in Valais
Aletsch Panorama Trail
Our Eurohike hiking tour Aletsch Panorama Trail is an absolute classic among hiking holidays. This seven-day tour combines the best of two popular hiking routes. As the first highlight of the tour, you march on the Lötschberg South Ramp and experience fantastic views. It continues to Belalp and finally to the Aletschbord. From here you have an impressive view of the glacier gate and the lower part of the Aletsch Glacier, the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage. Unforgettable highlights await you on the further daily stages from Riederalp – Fischeralp and on to Bellwald, before the hiking holiday comes to an end with an overnight stay in the tranquil mountain village of Bellwald.
Top Attractions in Valais
Zermatt and the Matterhorn
The Alpine landmark of Switzerland.
Saas Fee
The car-free mountain village is rightly called the "Pearl of the Alps."
Montreux Jazz Festival
The world-famous music festival on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
A stunning shoreline with vineyards surrounding the lake.
Useful information about your hiking holiday in Valais
Facts
- Location: Southwest of Switzerland, between the Bernese Alps and the Valais Alps.
- Area of Valais: Approx. 5,200 km²
- Population: Around 350,000
- Official Languages: German (Valais German) and French (Western Valais).
- Highest Point: Dufourspitze (4,634 meters), the highest peak in Switzerland.
- Season: The best time for hiking tours is from May to October, with snowshoeing also possible in winter depending on altitude.
- Specialty: Valais is known for its wine-growing regions and is one of the most important wine-producing areas in Switzerland. The region offers over 8,000 kilometers of hiking trails and is home to 40 peaks over 4,000 meters.
Climate in Valais
Valais offers excellent conditions for hikers year-round. In spring and summer, mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine create ideal conditions for hikes through picturesque valleys and along numerous mountain passes. The region is characterized by a unique climate influenced by the surrounding mountains. In autumn, the vineyards and forests turn golden, and the quieter hiking trails invite relaxed explorations. Particularly in the Upper Valais, where Switzerland's highest peaks are found, an alpine climate prevails, with crisp, fresh air. Even in winter, Valais remains attractive for hikers in the lower valleys due to its sunny, mild climate. Tip: Especially at higher altitudes, temperatures can drop quickly, so it’s advisable to always carry weatherproof clothing and warm gear.
Culture and Traditions
In Valais, culture is deeply rooted in the alpine landscape. Traditions like the "Alpabzug," where beautifully adorned cows descend from the pastures into the valley, are a true highlight. Music, dance, and regional festivals such as the "Fête de la Musique" in Sion bring the vibrant culture to life. Craftsmanship, from cheese-making to viticulture, also plays a significant role and showcases the strong connection of the people of Valais to their homeland. To truly get to know the region, one should experience these authentic traditions.
Cuisine
Valais is a paradise for food enthusiasts. The region's culinary traditions reflect its alpine nature: here, hearty dishes like the Walliser Rösti or the famous Raclette, made with the unique Valais cheese, are enjoyed. The region also has a long wine-making tradition – the sunny vineyards around Sion produce some of the best wines in Switzerland. Whether in rustic mountain huts or elegant restaurants, Valais' specialties promise authentic taste experiences that will leave the region lingering on your palate.
Did you know ..
- ... did you know that the Valais is home to the world's oldest known ice mummy, "Ötzi," which is around 5,300 years old?
- ... that the Valais has a unique tradition of "cheese herding," where young people work on alpine pastures and pass on the ancient craft of cheese-making?
- ... that the Valais is known for having the first "night train" in Switzerland, which was introduced in 1906 between Brig and Zermatt to allow tourists to experience the Matterhorn at sunrise?
- ... that the Valais boasts the highest vineyard location in Europe, in Visperterminen, where vines grow at altitudes of up to 1,150 meters?
- ... that the Valais is home to the famous "Sbrinz" cheese, which, with over 3,000 years of history, is considered one of the oldest cheese varieties in the world?
Wir bei Eurohike sorgen für rundum gelungene Wanderferien im Wallis – und bei uns wandern Sie ohne Gepäck!
