Hikes

Around Mont Gond

Tortin, Japanischer Garten

Nendaz

4/13°

Through this beautiful walk, discover the finest landscapes of Nendaz such as the Balavaux larches, the Dents Rousses, or the Japanese Garden.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

14.16 km

Duration

4:40 h
Tortin, Japanischer Garten
Tortin, Japanischer Garten
Pointe de Champ Ferret
Dents Rousses

Description

Over a distance of 14km, this relatively demanding walk will let you discover very varied landscapes. During this walk, when you find yourself at the Balavaux alpine pasture, admire the approximately 250 larches, some of which have reached the venerable age of 1000 years. Among these larches are the most imposing and oldest specimens in Europe. One of these multi-centenarians may even hold the record with a circumference of 11.8 meters. To admire the one called the "King of Balavaux," do not miss the specially arranged footbridge. Your ascent then continues towards the Dents Rousses where the view is impressive. From this location, you can admire the Cleuson dam, Mont-Fort, and the Alps. Between the Dents Rousses and Siviez, do not forget to stop at the Japanese Garden, a true corner of paradise. This enchanting natural site radiates a pleasant feeling of well-being and serenity.

Turn-by-turn directions

Nendaz, Tracouet – Balavaux – Champ Ferret – Dents Rousses – La Tsa – Japanese Garden – Tortin – Siviez

The start of this hike is located at the top of the Tracouet gondola. From there, follow the alpine pasture road towards Prarion. Once you reach the Balavaux hut, take the small road on your left and walk along the chotte where the Hérens breed cows stay during the summer. Cross the Balavaux alpine pasture where magnificent millennial larches stand. At the end of this road, the path narrows and becomes steeper. Continue your ascent towards the Dents Rousses, the highest point of your hike at over 2570m altitude. From there, begin your descent and reach Tortin. On your way, don't forget to take a refreshing break at the Japanese Garden. Then continue to Siviez, the final point of your walk, crossing the Tortin alpine pasture and then, from the reservoir, following the pedestrian path that runs alongside the Printse.

Start

Tracouet, top of the gondola (2195m)

Destination

Siviez (1728m)

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Author's recommendation

At Balavaux, a beautiful curiosity awaits you: over 250 larches including the most imposing and oldest specimens in Europe.

Technical information

Altitude

2576m

1728m

Ascent

+538m

Descent

-1005m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • 'Healthy climate'
  • Summit route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Take the train to Sion, then the post bus to Haute-Nendaz (gondola stop), and finally the gondola to Tracouet. All timetable information is available at www.cff.ch.

Approach

A9 motorway, exit 26 (Sion-west) coming from the west or 27 (Sion-east) coming from the east. Follow the "Haute-Nendaz" signs to the resort center.

Parking

Nendaz has several paid parking lots (Prameira, Mer de glace, Pré de la patinoire). Follow the parking signs in Nendaz.

Equipment

We recommend:

  • Good shoes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing: always have a waterproof jacket
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Picnic
  • Camera
  • Walking sticks (optional)
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Printed version of the route (click on "print" to download)

For some walks:

  • Swimsuit

Prepare your hike

Safety information

The mountain, a space for shared enjoyment and respect. The mountain offers a place to meet and share unforgettable moments, by bike or on foot. For all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy this, it is essential to share this space with respect for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to practice their hobby in the best conditions. Inform yourself about the recommendations and rules in place. Properly assess your physical condition and abilities. The use of different routes is always at your own risk.

For all hikes:

  • Bring a map. Download the full route description with a large scale map by clicking on the "print" icon at the top right of the page.
  • Use only marked paths and obey all signs—for your safety, for the protection of livestock, and to avoid disturbing wild animals.
  • Close gates after passing through.
  • Be respectful of other users, as well as plants and animals.

For mountain hikes:

  • Pay special attention to protecting yourself from the sun at altitude. UV rays can be very strong, even on cloudy days.
  • Plan your hike carefully: take into account the physical level of each participant, weather forecasts, and the season.
  • Weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly in the mountains. It is essential to have appropriate clothing, as well as sufficient reserves of food and water. In case of uncertain weather, turn back in time.

For high-mountain hikes:

  • Inform others about your route. If possible, avoid going alone.
  • Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Be aware of warning signs about constant danger in riverbeds, along watercourses below dams or reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and suddenly.

Rules of good conduct

Prepare your hike

Additional information

See the route on SuisseMobile:

Learn more about the destination:

Literature

Consult the Valais/Wallis hiking map to discover the best routes in the region.

The Nendaz tourist office provides you with informational material and brochures about hiking in the destination.

Maps

SwissTopo national maps 1:25,000: 1306 Sion

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

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