High on life
Wedged between saw-toothed peaks and majestic glaciers, the Swiss region of Valais can take you back to nature
Valais is a playground for adventure-seekers and naturelovers alike, with ribbons of breathtaking trails cutting through its unspoilt countryside. Hike these winding paths and you’ll discover the majestic Matterhorn mountain, the Rhône Valley’s sprawling vineyards, as well as the magnificent Greal Aletsch Glacier. And, you can retreat to one of many cosy cabins dotted across the mountainside. This is the perfect place to escape the bustle of daily life. Hit these four famed trails for a grand adventure:
01. Chemin du Vignoble ( Vineyard Trail)
Drinking good wine is one of life’s greatest pleasures, so what better way to explore Valais’s winemaking heritage than by hiking this 74km cinematic trail? With sun- drenched slopes and fertile soil, Valais is the biggest wine-growing region of Switzerland and is also the home of Raclette du trip to the region would be complete without sampling some of this famous fare, so make sure you stop off at a traditional restaurant along your hike.
03. Tour of the Val de Nendaz
the biggest ski destinations in Europe, but in the summertime this idyllic spot is also a hiking haven. This peaceful four- day hiking tour meanders across to conquer Mont-Rouge at 2,491m, witness the turquoise waters of the Cleuson dam and spot Europe’s biggest recharge your batteries and soothe your aching muscles at a serene Swiss spa such as Le Spa des Bisses.
02. Tour des Dents du Midi
Jagged peaks, shimmering lakes and grand mountain passes… if you want to see the untamed beauty of Valais, check out the 42.5km Tour des Dents du Midi, one of the oldest hiking trails in the region. There are peaks of various heights to scale, though intrepid hikers should try and tackle the Haute Cime (3,275m), the region’s highest summit. Keep an eye out for the inclusive ticket gives you unlimited access to activities including lifts, swimming pools and tennis as well as great discounts on paragliding, bike rental and more.
04. Great Aletsch Glacier Walk
It's no exaggeration to describe the Great aletsch Glacier Walk as awe-inspiring Flanked by 4,000m peaks, this UNESCO heritage site offers unimpeded views of every single person on earth with a litre of water every day for 4.5 years. You can traverse this 23km-long rugged terrain and if you want to add a touch of luxury to your trip, you can book a stay at the nearby Villa Cassel, a 19th- century mansion surrounded by exquisite Swiss stone pines, Pinus cembra.