Nature and culture
You probably know the ski area like the inside of your pocket, but have you visited Verbier in the summer?
The region is packed with numerous little gems, just waiting to be discovered. We’ll give you plenty of ideas for an unforgettable summer holiday in Verbier.
Pierre Avoi
The majestic Pierre Avoi mountain, emblematic of Verbier, overlooks the Rhone valley and is well known amongst local climbers and hikers. While the vertiginous north-west face offers a range of climbing routes of various levels of difficulty, the east face is easily accessible from above Verbier. This mountain is a popular hiking destination. A short hike from Savoleyres will take you to the foot of the final, rocky ascent to the top, which is climbed using ladders and chains. The view from the top is spectacular and bear in mind that if you climb it in the evening, you will be rewarded by a breathtaking sunset.
Lac des Vaux
In the summer, the Lac des Vaux is another walking destination not to be missed. Up there, the air is pure and the lake crystalline. As you pause in admiration, you’ll feel a light breeze on your skin and see fields of pretty alpine flowers (cottongrass). There are several ways of getting there. You can do the loop from Fontanet, via Les Attelas, opt for the return trip via the Col des Mines or, if you’re an experienced hiker, you can leave from La Tzoumaz!
Louvie mountain hut
The Cabane de Louvie hut is perched in the mountains, in the untamed Val de Bagnes, right beside the enchanting, turquoise Lac de Louvie. Take the lift to La Chaux and then head towards the Col Termin (NB It’s steep!). After that, you’ll reach the Upper Val de Bagnes nature reserve. In this protected wildlife zone, you may well be lucky enough to spot some of the many chamois and ibex which roam there. When you reach the hut, take a break and recharge your batteries with a delicious polenta gratin before you continue down to Fionnay.
3-D Parc
Combine an easy walk with a touch of culture and modern art as you stroll along the path between Les Ruinettes and La Chaux. In this 3D park, which brings art, culture and nature together, you’ll find works of art by international artists.
Winter wonderland
Have you experienced the magic of winter in Verbier? The trees and mountains are covered in fresh snow, the atmosphere is hushed and when the snow starts to fall, you just can’t wait to hit the slopes.
The ski area is, no doubt, at the top of your list, but there are numerous other places to see in Verbier 4Vallées. Check out our suggestions.
Mont-Fort
Picture yourself up at 3,330 m, breathing in pure air and facing an absolutely breathtaking view. You are surrounded by many impressive peaks, such as the Matterhorn, the Dent d’Hérens, the Grand-Combin and the Mont-Blanc, all of which you can admire from the Mont-Fort platform. Don’t forget the amazing experiences awaiting you up there, such as an exhilarating descent on the black run. To crown it all, there is the Mont-Fort, THE highlight of the Verbier 4Vallées area – if there is one gem you shouldn’t miss, this is it!
Mont-Gelé
Overlooking Les Attelas, the Mont-Gelé (3,023 m) is a dream area for fans of powder snow. As well as a magnificent view, there are two ski itineraries, both marked and secured but ungroomed. The Grande Journée run takes you to Tortin, via the Louettes Econduè valley, and the second one, which leads to La Chaux, promises a sunny, south-facing descent. Freeride beginners, take note!
Clambin, a timeless hamlet
Just above Verbier, tucked away in the forest, you’ll find Clambin. In this charming little hamlet, far away from the crowds, face to face with the mountains, time just seems to stop. While you are there, make sure you stop off at the “Chez Dany” restaurant, the perfect place to savour traditional food revisited by the chef, based on fresh, local produce. This little corner of paradise is a 20-minute walk from Le Carrefour, or 10 minutes on skis from Les Ruinettes.
Vallon d'Arbi
This small valley, tucked away between Verbier and La Tzoumaz, is a little spot of heaven on earth. Whether you are skiing or walking, this bewitching place is a must for your holiday “to-do list”. Skiers can enjoy the thrill of the challenging itinerary which starts just below the Lac des Vaux. As for hikers, they can leave from La Tzoumaz and walk to the Chassoure mountain pasture. Whatever you do, you can’t remain indifferent to the magical atmosphere of the surroundings.
