The traditional Valais villages nestled deep in the side valleys of the canton have retained their charm from days gone by. Old buildings, browned by the sun, stand proudly as exceptional witnesses of the past next to chalets adorned with geraniums and well-preserved granaries. Immerse yourself in these villages, classified by the association "Les plus beaux villages de Suisse" as "the most beautiful villages in Switzerland", experience their living traditions and soak up authenticity.
Embedded in the imposing Gemmiwand and surrounded by a fascinating mountain panorama, Leukerbad is situated 1400 metres above sea level. Leukerbad is not only the largest Alpine thermal spa and wellness resort, but also makes the heart of sports enthusiasts beat faster. Leukerbad offers you a wide range of recreational opportunities and active programmes 365 days a year in the midst of the unique mountain world.
Inden is situated on the Dala-Raspille cultural trail from Leukerbad to the well-known wine villages of Varen and Salesch. The small, former station of the Leuk-Leukerbad railway has been lovingly brought to life as a "corner shop" and the church is not to be underestimated. A late baroque building with an organ from 1826.
If you are looking for a typical Valais village and want to fully immerse yourself in the charm of the Valais mountain idyll, Albinen is the place for you! The unique mountain village lies at around 1300 m above sea level and is characterised by the longest daily sunshine duration, winding alleyways and the old wooden chalets that have been tanned by the sun for centuries.
Historical traces in the townscape of Leuk lead back to past centuries. From the Roman fireplace to the medieval bishop's castle, history can be experienced at first hand.
The sun-drenched wine village of Varen is known for its wines made from typical Valais grape varieties. Archaeological excavations attest to a settlement in Varen as early as the Bronze Age. The sunny location offers the best conditions for the wine, but also for all guests who enjoy hiking and want to benefit from the beautiful weather.
Over the centuries, the old town of Sierre has grown on six hills that already show traces of prehistoric settlements. Picturesquely nestled in vineyards, Sierre is the heart of one of Switzerland's most important wine-growing regions. The Meyer House in Sierre and the Zumofen House in the wine village of Salgesch together form the Vine and Wine Museum and are linked by a 6km-long theme trail.
Like an eagle's nest, Vercorin towers over Sierre and the Val d'Anniviers. The mild microclimate allows cherry trees to blossom, the sun-tanned wood of granaries to evoke times long past. Savour brisolée, roasted chestnuts with Alpine cheese, discover the nearby Vallon de Réchy Edelweisse nature reserve.
The charming village of Baltschieder, on the southern flank of the Rhone Valley, impresses with its almost untouched nature and rich flora and fauna.
Even in prehistoric times, people hiked through the Lötschental and over the pass of the same name, as findings from the Bronze and Iron Ages prove. Today, the Lötschental is still the starting point for countless mountain tours in an intact landscape. 200 kilometres of hiking trails lead through the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
Located at almost 2,000 metres above sea level, Chandolin is one of the highest villages in Europe that is inhabited all year round. Once a source of inspiration for poets and a refuge for dazzling personalities, Chandolin has retained its authentic charm. The old, closed cluster village still shows its original character.