Summer map (en)

Champex-Lac

Pure enjoyment Valais

www.valaistourism.ch

Zermatt

Nice to Welcome You Already Today! Valais

We will tell you quite frankly: our goal is to lead you astray – on a trip to our country and a realm that seduces people with such attractive diversity that it’s easy to lose an overview. This guide should nevertheless help you pick a place and time to discover holiday happiness that promotes everlasting memories. What’s your priority? Landscapes full of contrasts and fascinating originality? The promise of being pampered with loads of sunshine and warmth? Or perhaps countless opportunities to hike through valleys and mountains surrounded by mighty peaks, the freshest of air and plenty to discover. As a first step, why not dive into the internet to view our broad range of ideas that are sure to further arouse your curiosity. Highly recommended and also available in book stores or through our website is the culture and travel guide; packed full of information about everything concerning Valais. Theme brochures, available for download, also cover diverse topics. But best of all . . . why not get personally acquainted with canton Valais, by paying us a real-live visit. We’re delighted to be able to extend you a very warm welcome already today!

www.valaistourism.ch

Chandolin

Dream-like Villages Valais

Places exist in Valais the names of which shine way beyond those listed as a mustsee – places and things which are certainly worth visiting, even without the more famous names . . . although we don’t intend depriving them of their well-earned applause. It would simply be a great pity to miss out on the beauty of our sleepy villages; inhabited today as they were years ago, with an authentic and almost contagious lifestyle resembling that of the peace and tranquillity enjoyed in times gone by. Small jewel-like towns wait to delight the eye and warm the hearts of visitors. Historic tales further enliven the adventure – and the cultural spectrum, characterised by traditions in which you can get personally involved in, goes hand in hand with many of today’s more contemporary facets. Not to be forgotten are also the many places offering virtually all kinds of sporting activities to make hearts and pulses race faster. And there’s no lack of a spirited selection of recreational activities either – for both children and adults!

So what now? We suggest you lean back in your chair and take a careful look at our website.

You won’t be disappointed – and planning is half the fun.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 21746 »

With Valais You Can’t Go Wrong Valais

Accommodation with us is never purely a place to sleep; it is always a part of our naturally in-born and greatly appreciated hospitality. Regardless of whether you select a hotel, an apartment, bed and breakfast or even a camping site, our first priority is your well-being. Our range of overnight accommodation is as diverse as guests themselves, but always warm and friendly to make you feel entirely at home; typical Valais-style family hotels in contrast to non-plusultra luxury hotels and more. Wellness resorts and protected historical hotels are just as easy to find as simple, comfortable inns, together with children’s hotels that bring an unmistakable sparkle to their eyes! Beds of straw too, enjoyed by all who’d like to take a trip back in time.

However, one thing all the various types of accommodation have in common is their culinary spoils; ranging from tasty, authentic Valais dishes to traditionally rustic specialities – and naturally those to suit the palates of gourmets. The choice is yours, depending on the mood of the day and your budget. On viewing www.valaistourism.ch you will find plenty of offers and also be able to directly compare prices, as well as make direct bookings. A small tip: watch out for our attractive special offers and all-inclusive deals. Simply give us a call in case of any questions! Telephone +41 (0)27 327 35 70.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 40008 »

Kreuzboden, Saastal

Sunny Forecasts Valais

Of course we don’t have a direct line to Petrus the weather-maker, but one thing is certain – there is nowhere else in Switzerland where you can soak up as much sunshine as here in Valais. And if you want to double-check on such a comment, then why not take a look on the net to see where the sun shines most with the aid of our Live Cams. By following the links you also receive more detailed information on the local weather.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 337593 »

There is Always Something Going On It’s spoken about throughout the country – and even around the world. And mountainous Valais is slowly but surely becoming a great insider-tip for all kinds of events. Small, traditional festivities that shine with unmistakable charm, as well as large and international events in the arts, music and sports – and what could be a nicer or easier way of getting to know a place and it’s people better? We suggest you take a quick look on the internet to see what’s going on where and when – according to the date, location and the type of event you’re interested in.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 2713 »

A Distinguished Spot We are proud as well as most honoured to have received both the “Valais Excellence” label together with ISO 9001 rating for quality and 14001 for environmental affairs. What does this mean for you? It means the security of knowing you are getting the best! The label is given to companies in Valais who are engaged in a sociably and environmentally responsible manner – rewarding their constant striving to improve their offers. “Valais Excellence” is a guarantee that all companies bearing this distinguished label are a genuine part of Valais.

Nendaz

Hiking, Sport and Adventure Valais

As confirmed by a glance at the pictures in this brochure; hiking is one of the most popular sports in Valais – and has little in common with the leather bags and red socks that accompanied our grandparents many years ago. Hiking has rightly become a fashionable sport . . . and all roads lead back to the start at some point along the line. Hiking in refreshingly pure mountain air, passing beautiful scenery and picturesque villages, couldn’t be more pleasurable or relaxing. Stimulating too, as it not only grants the body and soul genuine well-being, but also a pause to gather new inspiration. Have we succeeded in awakening your curiosity for new and refreshing ideas? Valais Tourism and Valrando have compiled the best topical hikes for you, supplemented with individual maps. There’s also plenty to do for those who prefer moving around on two wheels at his or her own pace to discover this charming region.

We recommend all those who get their kicks out of sport and adventure to visit our website.

We promise you that you will find many offers guaranteed to get your adrenaline going!

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 2716 »

Gorge du Trient

Excursions and Exploration Valais

Even viewed as a whole, Valais can’t be described as big; which makes it all the more astonishing to discover so many treasured attractions and worthwhile excursions in a relatively small area. Those who want to get acquainted with the rich history of the place is almost spoilt for choice. In order to gain a quick overview, we’d suggest a visit to the museum of history in the Château de Valère in Sion – the castle and the castle church are very impressive. Just like the Abbey of St. Maurice and the many historic buildings scattered throughout Valais from different eras. Even disused forts are open today. However, the wonders of nature are reason alone to find time for excursions – the underground lake near St-Léonard, to name just one captivating excursion – complete with an almost magical boat trip. Three renowned ice caves are a further attraction; each fascinating in its own special way. A glittering spectacle is also presented through several canyons with secure galleries and boardwalks; which for some is adventure enough. And to learn more about the region’s inhabitants – other than the common two-legged (man) kind – a trip to the Alpine Zoo in Les Marécottes is a must! Here you’re greeted with the charm of the marmots, the odd snow owl with condescending glance, and the distinguishing qualities of many other rather shy animals that one generally only sees with a bit of luck in Valais . . . or with a good deal of patience.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 41518 »

Champoussin, Val d‘Illiez

A Kingly Realm for Children Valais

We Valaisians are family people. We love to laugh and spend time with our families and to sit in amicable ambiance and enjoy the simple joys in life. And we’re equally as keen to see you and your family enjoy life and make you feel comfortable. No fewer than nine resorts bear the “Families Welcome” symbol – which means family-friendly accommodation at family friendly prices, game programmes, children’s menus and more. Boredom is an unknown word here, as children love our mountains, where they can let off steam to their heart’s content and act as children do. And there’s so much to discover; adventure-woods, climbing parks, campfires, discovery trails, enclosures with animals to pet, large walk-through mazes and plenty more to mention if we had the space. Fun and games are also guaranteed in the Aquapark in Le Bouveret, the Ravensburger game-path in Grächen, children’s circus in the Aletsch region, the Lucky-Luke scavenger hunt in Ovronnaz or the planet-path in St-Luc. And if you feel like relaxing alone for once, then that will not be a problem either! We care for your children with activities that will keep them talking once they get back in your arms . . . activities such as baking pizza, painting T-shirts, handicrafts and more.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 2721 »

Leukerbad

Hot Springs to Immerse In Valais

What famous and celebrated names such as Pablo Picasso and Alexandre Dumas learnt to appreciate way back in time has enjoyed a wonderful comeback in recent years; the pleasure of bathing in beneficial hot springs with source from the heart of the mountains. Amid stunning Alpine scenery, several thermal bathing centres attract guests with everything imaginable in the world of wellness. Stop for a moment and envisage a visit to a Roman-Irish pool, followed by a soothing soap-brush massage! Or being gently packed in a wrap of beneficial hay flowers, after which you immerse in a bath enriched with essential oils. Aesthetic care is important too – and beauty treatments with unique Valaise grape seed products a great way to be pampered inside and out! First you’re served a glass of tasty Valais wine, after which your body is treated with grape seed oil; the vital contents of which does you a world of good in supporting the combat of premature ageing. Pampering is also on the cards for the body-conscious male; with Day-Spa-Arrangements and anti-stress treatments offered.

In Leukerbad guests also enjoy the delights of a cinema viewed from the pool, naturally showing the latest movies along with the classics. If you’d like to know more, and we can’t say we blame you . . . our Wellness Brochure is available for order via our Internet page – we’ll gladly send you one!

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 2720 »

Martigny

Culture at Your Discretion Valais

With our brochures and excursion proposals we have already attempted to provide you with a small taste of what to expect in the way of museums, monuments and our most famous cultural events. Take the music scene for example: Mid-July welcomes classical treats in the musical town of Ernen – for many a well-kept secret, as it’s more a family event and enjoyed as an “Anti-Star” festival. August and September journeys lead to the “International Festival of Music” in Sion and Zermatt for classical music fans. And if you’d like to be among the crowd enjoying festivities of a traditional nature, then we’d suggest you take part in the “Folklore Music Festival Vanessa Grand Open Air” in Leuk in June, the “Blatten Summer Night Event” in the Lötschental Valley or the “Alpine Choir Festival” in late September . . . where you are permitted to open your mouth and join in! Original summer festivals include the Vercojazz, with New Orleans Jazz as its core theme. Friends of the blues meet in late August at the “Sierre Blues Festival” – and Valais not only rocks with the “Gampel OpenAir” festival but also animates with several enlivening events such as the smaller “Open Air Lax”. A totally different kind of cultural event takes place in July in Champéry; with the introduction of the arts and crafts market, where around 60 artists present their personal works.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 2719 »

Furka Steam Railway

Welcome Aboard Valais

To explore the Valais in a relaxed and comfortable manner, your best bet is by train. The most famous of course is the Glacier Express, which connects Zermatt and St. Moritz; immodestly yet justly advertised with the slogan “A Train to Fall in Love With”. A rather lengthy flirt is on the cards however, as the treasured journey takes 7 hours. Hours of pleasure with nostalgic character are also in store for you aboard the Furka Pass steam train which will once again travel straight through to Oberwald. Those who prefer a little less time for reminiscence are best off taking the Mont Blanc Express and around 90 minute cross border trip to Chamonix in France. And it’s the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn that carries passengers to Disentis in canton Graubünden. An exciting experience is also a ride with the Gornergrat Bahn – Europe’s highest situated outdoor cog railway. On display is also the world’s steepest funicular railway, built in 1920, with a gradient of 87%. It belongs to two other railways in Châtelard: A panorama train pulled by locomotives on a narrow track and the Minifunic; leading to the Lac d’Emosson reservoir. The dam charms with hues of rich steelblue and bottle green colour. Furthermore, those who have no intentions of travelling the Great St Bernard Pass with their own vehicles, can conveniently take the St Bernard Express to Orsières . . . where a bus then carries you all the way up.

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 88406 »

Brochures Valais The Sunny Side of Holidays Valais

On Track to Happiness Valais

www.valaistourism.ch

Summer D/F/E/I/NL

Winter D/F/E/I/NL

Wellness D/F (Web E/I)

Meeting in Valais

www.valais.ch

www.valaistourism.ch

Meetings D/F/E

www.valaistourism.ch

Hiking by “Bisses” Valais

Hiking Tours Valais

www.valaistourism.ch

Hiking by “Bisses” D/F/E/I/NL

www.valaistourism.ch

Hiking Tours D/F/E/I/NL

You can also leaf through the Valais brochures online or download them.

Additional brochures are available on order through Valais Tourism:

Rue Pré-Fleuri 6, P.O. Box 1469, 1951 Sion, Switzerland T +41 (0)27 327 35 70, F +41 (0)27 327 35 71 info@valais.ch, www.valaistourism.ch

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 40013 »

Photos: Andenmatten Thomas, Engler Stephan, Gyger Marcus, Müller Kurt, Perraudin François, Perret Christian, Pfammatter Christian, Schuerpf Christof.

Printed in Switzerland – 2012

Hiking in Valais

Hiking D/F/E/I/NL

www.valaistourism.ch

www.valaistourism.ch

Golfer’s Paradise Valais

Golf D/F/E

Wellness in Valais

Saillon

Pure Valais Gold Valais

Red in colour, it lends a distinctive taste to dishes such as risotto and colours food yellow.

Got any idea what it could be? Yes saffron – worth even more than real gold in weight and grown in a village named Mund, close to Brig. Gold. Thanks to the region’s beautifully mild climate, this crocus-species of plant thrives on our southern slopes and is the source of our bestquality saffron, awarded the label of origin (AOC) – visit www.mund.ch for further information.

Quality is also a shared feature of two other local specialities; namely wine and cheese.

On a huge number of plots of land – equivalent to approximately a third of Switzerland’s cultivatable land – about 50 different types of grape that enthuse wine lovers from near and far, are grown. In addition to the familiar Fendant white wine and red Dôle, a number of lesser-known rarities also delight the palates of connoisseurs; names such as Heida, Petite Arvine, Resi, Humagne, Gamaret and Garanoir all promise finest wine enjoyment. Many also present a superb accompaniment to locally produced cheese – including our famous Raclette!

This delicious speciality is served by scraping the heated-to-melting-point surface off a bisected cheese-round onto plates; a heart-warming dish and delicacy, commonly served with potatoes. Take a look at our website to discover more tasty ideas . . .

Info: www.valaistourism.ch SEARCH 26491 »

Ernen

Genuine Hospitality Valais

Agriculture and tourism are very closely connected in Valais. And if you’re wondering what significance this may have on things, it’s simple; you get to experience the real side of life and get closer to the locals. Not only can you enjoy authentic local specialities, but also learn about their production. And why not get the information straight from the horse’s mouth by staying at a farm! Farmers here are happy to host guests and open their doors and hearts to provide them with a glimpse of their daily lives. They show you around fields and stalls, production facilities and more – and incidentally, the many interesting facts you learn about agriculture, provide a delightful real-life experience for children that’s not easily forgotten. Accommodation ranges from small guest houses on the farm to guest rooms, Alpine huts, comfortable chalets and even beds of straw. And you are usually more than welcome to share in delightful meals at the same table if it suits you – and many an everlasting friendship accompanies everlasting memories. Most farms also offer their produce for direct purchase, providing yet another bonus . . . tasteful, genuine and authentic gifts to take home with you to share with others and rekindle fondest memories.

www.valais-terroir.ch

www.valdor.ch

Partners Valais

Faster into the Valais.

Car transport LÜtschberg: Kandersteg–Goppenstein in only 15 minutes.

Services in both directions every 30 minutes during the day, every 15 minutes at peak times and even more frequently during periods of heavy demand. www.bls.ch/autoverlad

Well on track.

vaude.com

Chalets and holiday apartments www.interhome.ch tel. 0840 84 88 88

www.provins.ch

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n mariage

particulièrement bien ficelÊ.

Choyez votre plaisir.