Chemin des Contrées open
As of the summer 2020, the Chemin des Contrées path links Mollens and Nayes and St-Maurice-de-Laques in the middle of the Noble Contrée region and Diogne and Chermignon-d’en-Bas, linking via the Grand Bisse to Icogne-Lens, in the heart of the Louable Contrée region. This easy and almost flat route at an altitude of 1,000m traverses extraordinary wild surroundings, with a direct link to the SMC and Post bus routes. Punctuated by forests, scree and streams, and offering breathtaking viewpoints, this route is truly an educational excursion, thanks to seven information panels which enable walkers to explore the wealth of history in the region, thanks to testimonies from local people.
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Difficulty
medium
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Length
14.8 km
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Duration
4:25 h
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The challenge of the « Chemin des Contrées » is to link the districts known as the Louable & Noble Contrée (the territory which connects Sierre to the Plaine Morte) by a new route. The inhospitable areas of the Gouffre du Boup and the Echerts and Chertines forests were until now impassable. To the east, Mollens is the departure point for this hike in a bucolic landscape, which can be enjoyed almost year-round. The area previously covered by the old commune is immense – over 3,000 hectares – stretching from the Planige plateau above Miège to the Faverges, on the boundary with the canton of Bern. Along the route, different historic buildings such as the chapel, the Maison Bourgeoisiale and the communal building in Mollens allow walkers to witness the wealth of local heritage. The parish church of St-Maurice de Laques, which has Medieval origins, was once an important place of worship in the area. Walkers can therefore contemplate over 750 years of history. Further, the « Le Boup » site (a patois name which means « hole » or « ravine ») is a legacy of the glacial retreat. This amazing natural arena will delight geology fans. This mineral area transforms into an area resembling an Amazonian forest when vegetation starts growing in spring.
