Discover what’s new in the Valais summer

Dear journalists,

Today, 21 June 2021, we are now officially in summer, so it is time to present the new summer attractions we have in store for you. Under the Valais sun, relax as you enjoy the soothing benefits of water in the first wellness garden, explore the new “Valais Bike” trails, learn about our iconic black Herens cows as you follow a dedicated new hiking trail, or enjoy a thrilling variety of cultural activities. Take this chance, too, to meet two local personalities who live for the great outdoors.

Would you like to find out more about Valais? Don’t hesitate to contact us: we would be delighted to provide you with further information or organise interviews.

Wellness garden – Saas-Almagell
Stimulate your senses as you walk on a variety of surfaces such as spikes and corks, Himalayan salt and rosemary. Kneipp (hydrotherapy) pools alternating cold and warm water showcase a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. The first wellness garden offers a spacious haven of wellbeing (300 square metres) at the Pirmin Zurbriggen Hotel in Saas-Almagell.

Yoga Break in the Mountains – Veysonnaz
This break is for yoga enthusiasts of all levels. The package includes daily yoga sessions in the morning, meditation to the sound of Tibetan bowls in the evening, a guided walk along a historical water channel (Bisse de Vex), as well as a workshop for getting to know the region, its pristine nature and glorious panoramic views.

Glamping – Lötschental
Glamping (short for “glamorous camping”) is now on offer in the idyllic Lötschental valley at the “Dani’s Lamm” sheep farm. Accommodation is in WiesenBett “lodge tents”, surrounded by pristine nature with a magnificent mountain backdrop: pure relaxation is guaranteed!

You might enjoy this, too: Les Celliers de Sion is a stylish new visitor centre for wine enthusiasts. Attractions include vineyard tours on foot or by bike with glorious views of the Rhône valley, framed by mountain summits.

“Valais Bike” multi-day trail: three new stages
“Valais Bike” is a new regional long-distance mountain bike trail that takes you from Leukerbad to Brig via the most scenic trails and the finest singletrack in Upper Valais. This summer, three new sections are being added to the initial trail, bringing the total number of day-stages to six. The route will continue to develop until 2025, when Valais will host the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships.

“100% Women” deals – Valais
Calling all women: how about exploring Switzerland in exclusively female company? Choose from more than 200 offers and events in a 100% female environment – created by women for women, in each case led by a woman.

Construction of a via ferrata at Niouc – Val d’Hérens
Niouc is well-known among adrenalin junkies for its suspension footbridge across a deep ravine. Passing 190 metres above the river below, the footbridge is one of the highest in Europe, and is equipped with a bungy-jump and giant swing that promise spine-tingling excitement. In summer 2021, a via ferrata will also open here, complementing the existing attractions at Niouc as well as the growing range of spectacular fixed-cable climbs in Valais.

You might enjoy this, too: The zip line on the Mont-Fort is the highest and longest in the Alps. It runs from the summit of the Mont-Fort to the Col des Gentianes: a distance of more than 1,400 metres, with a vertical drop of 383 metres. Riders can reach speeds of up to 130 km an hour.

On the trail of the Herens cow – Nendaz
On the Tortin mountain pasture at the heart of the “4 Vallées” holiday region, our mascot Cheesy will lead you along a trail to fun info stations where you can learn all about the iconic Herens cows of Valais – for example, why they wear bells and what the “Battle of the Queens” is. And why not have a go at milking?

Reopening of the waterside trail – Saas-Fee
The new circular trail runs along the newly renovated Unnerwasser irrigation channel (known as “Suone” in Upper Valais) in the Hannig region and along the Biffig Suone to Grundbiel. The magnificent views of the Mischabel massif and the glacier village are enchanting. Water play areas along with Kneipp (hydrotherapy) and relaxation facilities provide an oasis of recreation for children and adults alike.

Games stations – Grächen
Along the Ravensburger games path, families can explore seven new games stations and six small wooden chalets with new games from summer 2021. Armed with a special games rucksack, you can tackle routes of varying difficulty and combine your hike with some gaming fun.

You might enjoy this, too: Discover the secrets of the largest glacier in the Alps. During a guided trek on the Great Aletsch Glacier, you will learn all about the fascinating history and the extraordinary phenomena surrounding this mighty river of ice.

Multimedia experience – Zermatt
The former “Hohtälli” cable car station on the Gornergrat now houses a thrilling multimedia attraction, new as of June 1, 2021. “Zooom the Matterhorn” promises a multisensory experience of the iconic mountain and its natural setting. The location is spectacular, with fabulous views of the surrounding 29 peaks above 4,000 metres.

In the footsteps of our ancestors – Bettmeralp
The Bettmeralp Alpine Museum opens its doors this summer to show what life was like in former days, between the mountain villages and the alpine pastures. The guide, Bernhard Stucky, has countless fascinating facts and anecdotes to share with visitors.

Hiking Sounds Festival – Moosalp
On July 17 and 18, the Moosalp region will host the first Hiking Sounds Festival: an event that combines hiking, nature and music, expected to draw about 1,500 people over two days. During their hike, participants reach a small unplugged stage showcasing a performer from the region. On the main stage, a local artist will play several concerts.

You might enjoy this, too: The PALP Festival combines live music, visual art and the performing arts with a chance to explore local heritage and produce. See international bands perform on high alpine pastures or in a secluded garden, savour a Raclette while listening to electronic music or bargain-hunting, or enjoy any of a wide range of events from live gigs to shows and interactive workshops.