Switzerland : Valais

Walking in Val D'Anniviers

Trip code: W07VD 5 (1 reviews)

Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1 to 3

14.0Kg CO2e

Printed route
directions

SUMMARY

  • Based in the French speaking region, discover the best Alpine trails in the Val d'Anniviers
  • Walk along glacier-fed lakes or up to the summit of Bella Tola at 3,050m
  • Witness panoramic views of the Rhone Valley and the imposing summits of the Swiss, French & Italian Alps

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts & dinners
  • Comprehensive route directions
  • 'Pass Anniviers' - discounted cable cars and free Postbus between villages

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Located in the French speaking part of Switzerland, Val d'Anniviers is renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery and deeply rooted cultural traditions. As you journey through this valley, you'll be greeted by towering peaks from the Grande Couronne, including iconic summits like the Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, and the famous Matterhorn. The valley offers not only breathtaking landscapes but also a glimpse into a lifestyle that has evolved with the mountains for centuries.

Val d'Anniviers is dotted with tiny villages each with their own charm and many little changed by time. Agricultural traditions have left their mark, with rustic, sun-burned wooden buildings like barns, houses, and churches originating in the 13th century. These structures reflect the enduring spirit of the region's people, who have sustained a unique economy and culture. Our chosen base is St. Luc (1,680m), a typical unspoilt village of the region, home to the Francois-Xavier Bagnoud observatory, a great spot for stargazing.

High above the Rhone Valley, Val d'Anniviers has an excellent postal bus service linking the small precariously perched villages, and enabling a large number of one way walks to be enjoyed. Cable cars and a funicular railway transport you to over 2,290m allowing you to explore even higher or to gently walk down to another wooden roofed village and return back to base by postbus.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in St Luc

Arrive in the lovely Swiss town of St Luc, Val d'Anniviers. Below are just a selection of the many walks that are available in and around St Luc.

You stay at Hotel Bella Tola.

hotel details

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Hotel Bella Tola, St Luc

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Nestled in the heart of Valais, in St Luc, this historic hotel subtly melds old-world furniture with warm alpine decor. Founded in 1859 by the Pont family, many features of the hotel have been carefully retained. The beautiful spa is inspired by the surrounding alpine setting and offers an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, ice-fountain, and three massage rooms. The Chez Ida Restaurant proposes a creative cuisine oriented to everything in season with an extensive wine list devoted to excellent Swiss wines.

Day 2: Chandolin Circular (10km/6.2mi)

A gentle walk to begin your trip. Follow the trail along the valley sides, going out at a high level over open heathland and then descending to the Botanical Walk. Return through the woods below or link to the Illgraben Circuit for a longer day (extra 6km).

Day 3: The Bisse Walk (8km/5.0mi)

After a short, sharp ascent, this becomes a delightful and easy walk by the bisses (irrigation channels). Journey through woodland down to the valley where you have the option to extend this walk with the 'Navisence Trail' (extra 6km).

Day 4: Bella Tola Ridge & Lakes (18km/11.2mi)

To ascend and walk this ridge you should be an experienced mountain walker, reasonably fit and with a good head for heights. It's certainly worthwhile as on a clear day the views are absolutely magnificent. But if the ridge itself is not for you, a shorter and lower route which still leads into mountain scenery and passes the three lakes, is possible. The final section of the descent is very demanding but can be omitted.

Day 5: The Valley Villages Tour (20km/12.4mi)

A mostly low level walk connecting the pleasant lower villages of Val d’ Anniviers, with various options because you are always near the postbus service route.

Day 6: Through the Woods to Vercorin (12km/7.5mi)

An easy walk with plenty of views through the trees, partly on quiet roads and mostly on the level until the final descent near Vercorin. It can be done in half a day, giving time to explore Sierre on your return journey.

Day 7: Lac de Moiry Circuit (13km/8.1mi)

A high or low level circuit of the Moiry Dam. This scenic circuit loops around the turquoise waters of the Lac de Moiry with dramatic views of the dam, the lake, the wild Val de Moiry and its sparkling glacier.

Day 8: Depart St Luc

Say fond farewells to St Luc as you depart on the train.

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from $230.

Twin-bedded rooms in Swiss resorts are normally one large base with two mattresses/duvets. These are also known as 'Austrian Twins' and are regarded as two beds. Separate twin beds are rare and cannot be guaranteed as available.

TRAVEL DETAILS

Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.

REVIEWS

Communication was good, and we felt we were kept up to date with our booking. Any queries were promptly answered.

Stuart Revell, 11 Jul 2023

 


Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 1 to 3

14.0Kg CO2e

Printed route
directions

7 nights from $2435

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: +44 1606 720199

 

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