LOCAL AREA
Grimisuat is situated at around 850m between the medieval city of Sion on the valley floor and the nearest resort Anzere, where the village height is 1500m. It is less than ten minutes by car to either and in fact all of the places mentioned below, from Ovronnaz and its thermal baths in the west to Zermatt and the mighty Matterhorn in the east, can be reached in less than one hour.
If you prefer to travel by foot, there are miles of alpine walks signposted from virtually just outside the door. These include spectacular bisse walks like the Torrent de Neuf with its suspended walk-ways over eye-watering ravines; forest hikes up to the extensive alpine pastures complete with traditional clanging bells of the dairy herds and for the seriously energetic, there is an extensive network of mountain tracks complete with a variety of overnight cabanes to stay in. Needless to say whatever your preference, there is always the opportunity to sample the local hospitality and typical Valaisan specialities relatively nearby.
Anzère -10 mins
Built on the site of ancient pastures, the village of Anzère faces due south. Perched on a plateau, in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the village enjoys a Mediterranean microclimate. In the region, one can find primitive rural structures and altitude pasture dwellings, made of wood and stone. The pedestrian-only Village Square is the centre of village life. During the winter, once a week, hot wine prepared in a large kettle providing welcome drinks for all visitors. It is a good opportunity to socialise and get to know others.
Nax - 30 mins
Known as the “Balcony of the Sky”, it is located overlooking Val d'Hérens, a side valley to the Rhone-Valley. The village developed on a natural balcony from which a panorama of unforgettable beauty and splendour can be discovered. This authentic little village nestles on the larch and arolla pine covered slopes of Mont-Noble, a stone's throw away from the wild Réchy valley - a paradise for wildlife and plantlife enthusiasts - and is a part of Val d'Hérens with its many interesting and unusual sights, a land of hundred-year old grain stores, cow fights, raclette and fendant wine.
Nax is also a paradise for skiers who come here to rediscover what is missing in many other winter resorts. The adventure of skiing in the heart of an area of untouched natural beauty. At the top of the chair-lift Dzorniva, the resort's restaurant is the best place to enjoy a good meal with friends or to taste one of the Valaisan specialties. The terrace with its 320 places is ideal for sunbathing over a drink you can order at the Snowbar.
Crans-Montana - 25 mins
The two neighbouring resorts of Crans and Montana are situated at an altitude of 1500m on a sun-drenched plateau high above the Rhone Valley. Together they form one of the biggest holiday destinations in Valais.
These twin towns have much to offer, including an impressive view of the chain of mountain peaks from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc and a particularly wide programme of activities all year round.
Idyllic mountain village or alpine town? Crans-Montana embodies both and combines all the comforts of a modern holiday resort with an expansive natural landscape and panoramic views of the Valais Alps. The modern side of Crans-Montana offers the most extensive alpine shopping for miles around. It also boasts a wide range of accommodation. As a venue for major sporting events, and with a reputation as a golfing Mecca, Crans-Montana draws visitors from all over the world. Commune with nature in this family-friendly resort, where you can enjoy five swimming lakes; walks through aromatic mountain forests along an extensive network of footpaths; and cosy fondue evenings in rustic inns.
Vercorin - 35 mins
Vercorin's position on a plateau high above Sierre in the Rhone valley reminds you of an eagle's eyrie. This holiday resort in Valais, between the conservation area of the Réchytal and the entrance to the Val d'Anniviers, is famous for its climate, so mild that you can even see cherry trees in bloom.
The old houses and barns of this unspoilt mountain village, located at 1330 m, nestle snugly around the Romanesque church tower. Vercorin can be reached from the Rhone valley by post bus from Sierre or by cable-car from Chalais.
Not far from Vercorin is the unique natural treasure of the Réchytal, an undeveloped valley with virtually no roads or buildings. With its abundance of edelweiss and varied wildlife, this nature conservation area is one of the most unspoilt landscapes of the Central Valais. When Nature slowly begins to prepare for her winter sleep, the stags wake up in the rutting season between September and October, performing a courtship ritual that can be heard from far away.
Ovronnaz – 40 mins
The small holiday and health resort of Ovronnaz is located in the French-speaking part of Valais on a south-facing sun terrace. The "Thermalp les Bains" thermal spa centre offers a comprehensive wellness programme and all the services of a health treatment centre. A treatment sector, cosmetic medicine department and the three 32 to 35 degree Celsius thermal pools - two of which in the open air - are well-known. Summer holidaymakers and winter sports enthusiasts alike enjoy the panorama view of the Rhone Valley.
Evolène Region – 40 mins _300x169.jpg)
Evolène is the fourth largest commune, in area, in Switzerland. Its territory offers an extensive choice of activities for everyone.
Splendid alpine peaks include the Dent Blanche, more than 250 km of paths and trails are clearly marked, as are the 100 km of mountain bike trails. Tennis, trout fishing, a fitness circuit, or, for the more adventurous, the newly opened Via Ferrata, the alpine climbing school, paragliding and paintball are available. Many cultural activities are also organised - a visit to the museum in Evolène, guided thematic excursions (geology, glaciology, fauna and flora) and evening concerts, to name but a few
Arolla – 50 mins
Arolla, a trilogy of blue, white and green. A haven of peace amids forests of arolla pines, where some will be surprised by the presence of an ibex, marmot or chamois at a bend in the path while others marvel at the beauty of immaculate fields of snow. Arolla is a small resort with a great reputation for montaineering and skitouring, an attractive, welcoming village at the foot of some of the prestigious Alpine peaks.
Saillon – 25 mins
Today, an ultra-modern thermal spa is available to all visitors.
There are 4 thermal pools (these are heated to between 28 and 34 degrees), a Carpe Diem well-being centre (saunas, steam baths etc.) a beauty centre (massages, algae body wraps, etc.), an aerobics and fitness centre and a summer toboggan. With is shops, physiotherapy centre, 4-star hotel, studios and apartments, even the most demanding guests should be satisfied!
Leukerbad – 45 mins
The Romans were among the first to recognise the healing properties of the hot springs of Leukerbad. This thermal spa resort lies well protected in a Valais side valley and is now a popular destination for wellness and sports’ enthusiasts.
Every day 3.9 million litres of hot water gush from 65 thermal springs in the mountain spa resort of Leukerbad. These thermal springs have led to the development of tourism in Leukerbad and made it one of the biggest spa and wellness resorts in Switzerland. Apart from a medical rehabilitation centre, its attractions now include numerous public thermal baths. After their sporting activities, neither skiers in winter nor hikers in summer miss the chance to regenerate in the warm, relaxing water. The centre of Leukerbad is traffic-free and the Leukerbad Sports Arena offers plenty of indoor sports facilities to enjoy all-year round, whatever the weather.
Verbier – 45 mins
From its sunny plateau, Verbier offers some amazing views. In the shadow of Mont Blanc and the Grand Combin, it is located at the heart of one of the biggest ski areas in the Alps: Les 4 Vallées. A freeriding paradise, Verbier is the perfect winter sports destination, from the very first snow falls.
The resort offers a wide range of accommodation in a protected setting, with all the charm of a traditional village and its wooden chalets. An international programme of events will add a whole new dimension to your stay.
It caters for all tastes, from action-packed holidays to relaxation, not forgetting shopping. Après-ski is an institution here and you will be spoiled for choice of places to end your day on the slopes. Fine dining enthusiasts can choose from a wide range of options, including award-winning restaurants.
Nendaz – 40 mins
The word wellness has a special meaning in the “Land of the Bisses”.
For these hand-built irrigation canals – which make up a network of 98 km, unique throughout the world – no longer merely irrigate the steep slopes of Valais. They also invigorate walkers, and of course thrill visiting children. You can walk along all eight of the “bisses” between May and October; six still carry water. The gentle slope of the canals makes for an optimal water flow – and a correspondingly pleasant and uplifting walk alongside them – all around picturesque Nendaz.
Veysonnaz – 30 mins
The little resort of Veysonnaz, located at about 1200 m, is 13 kilometres by road from Sion, the capital of the canton of Valais. In winter, Veysonnaz forms part of the "Four Valleys" skiing area, with over 400 km of prepared slopes. Far below is the broad Rhone valley, and opposite, the northern chain of the Valais Alps, with the wide glaciers of the Plaine Morte. To the west, you can see as far as the bend in the valley where Martigny is situated. Veysonnaz combines a modern tourist infrastructure with its original village features and the authentic way of life of the upland and alpine economy. Taking the cows up the mountain in June and the (bloodless) cow fights between the naturally combative Eringer (Hérens) cows of the Valais are traditions that are still alive and well here.
Sion/Sitten - 5 mins
Sion (or Sitten in German), the bilingual capital of the Canton of Valais, is known as the most sun-blessed town of Switzerland. Thanks to its central location, the small town abounding with culture is also an ideal starting point for exploring the summer and winter holiday resorts in the Valais side valleys.
Vineyards and castles are the landmarks of Sierre and Sion. The towers of the Tourbouillon Castle Ruin and the Valeria Fortress rising skywards make Sion recognisable from afar. In the bilingual capital of the Canton of Valais, past and future blend seamlessly: Switzerland's oldest town today is the economic centre of the Valais and an important traffic hub with its own small international airport. The diocese of Sion, which was founded in the 4th century, for a long time played an important spiritual and political role in the region. The castle church of Valeria boasts one of the oldest working organs - dating from the late 14th or early 15th century - in the world. Several museums bear testimony to the historical heritage of the town.
Saas-Fee/Saastal – 60 mins
The highest mountains in Switzerland await visitors to the Saas Valley. Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund, Saas-Balen and Saas-Almagell all offer an astonishing array of enjoyable, sporting, family-oriented and adventurous holiday activities. The valley’s mild climate and stunning glaciers create a magical setting for any holiday.
“Then suddenly you are standing in front of this amazing view – I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere. It’s as if you are simultaneously standing at the end of the world and at its origin, at its beginning and in its centre.” These were the stirring words German playwright Carl Zuckmayer, who spent his last years in Saas-Fee, used to describe his first impressions of the Saas Valley. The sight of the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland’s highest mountains glowing in the sunset is truly an awe-inspiring sight – an imposing natural setting that surpasses all expectations. The region also has numerous Alpine wellness facilities where you can boost your energy levels and rediscover that lust for life. In Saas-Fee and the Saas Valley, the latest technology stands side by side with the natural elements. The Metro Alpin funicular railway travels through the mountains to the highest station in Europe, at 3,500 metres above sea level. And on a clear day you can see all the way to Milan from Allalin. The Saas Valley has activities to suit everyone, from families to top athletes, bon vivants, adventurers and those in need of some rest and relaxation. Thanks to its southern location, it also enjoys 300 days of sun every year!
Zermatt – 60 mins
Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is most probably the world's most famous mountain. The vacation destination is a car-free zone, has preserved its original character and offers nearly unlimited possibilities as far as excursions are concerned.
The location of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn and in the middle of an enormous hiking and ski region makes it one of the world's most attractive vacation villages. The ski region encompasses 63 mountain railways and more than 300 kilometers of pistes. The region called "Matterhorn glacier paradise" is Europe's largest and highest lying summer skiing region. Numerous national ski teams train here in the summer.
Grande Dixence – the 285 Meter High Dam – 50 mins
The Grande Dixence, the world's highest gravity dam, collects the meltwater of 35 Valaisian glaciers in the region surrounding Zermatt and leading up to Val d’Hérens. The dam can be viewed, and is the starting point for several hiking tours
The first dam was built in Val des Dix as early as 1934. Grande Dixence, built in the years from 1951 to 1965, is a construction of incredible magnitude. It is 200 meters thick at the base, 695 meters long and 285 meters high. Six million cubic meters of concrete were required for the construction of the dam. The large reservoir holds 400 million cubic meters of water, which is channeled into the lake through 100 kilometers of tunnels.
Guided tours with slide shows and films take place in the interior of the dam. An aerial cable car takes visitors to the top of the dam, which has a magnificent panoramic view of the Valaisian mountains. A variety of mountain hikes begin here, such as the high altitude Ibex Trail , which was established by the Grande Dixence S.A. in collaboration with Pro Natura Valais.
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