Hikes

Chemin des villages d’Evolène

Evolène mit der Dent Blanche im Hintergrund

Evolène

4/13°

Hike through the historic villages of the upper Val d'Hérens. The well-preserved and beautiful village centers bear witness to historic village life in the Valais mountains.

Difficulty

Easy

Length

11.09 km

Duration

3:25 h
Evolène mit der Dent Blanche im Hintergrund
Kirche von La Sage
Dorf Les Haudères im Val d'Hérens

Description

A group of well-preserved historic villages forms the heart of the upper Val d'Hérens. The two largest villages, Evolène and Les Haudères, lie between pasture land in the valley floor. The three other villages La Forclaz, La Sage, and Villaz lie on terraces about 300 meters higher. The villages have lovingly restored historic wooden chalets and barns, which they decorate impressively with flowers in summer. Evolène was voted the most beautiful village in French-speaking Switzerland in 2012 and, like Les Haudères, is among the historically protected places in Switzerland. Surrounded by alpine pastures and fragrant forests, they have retained their historic charm over the years. The pasture land around the villages is the original home of the black Eringer cows, whose name derives from this origin. They have become a well-known symbol of Valais. The cows establish the herd hierarchy through fights – hikers can often observe this natural spectacle on the alpine pastures. Besides natural fights, organized cow-fighting events also take place, offering a social gathering with raclette enjoyment, an experience for locals and tourists alike.

Highlights of the hike:

  • Historic villages with sun-weathered wooden houses and barns.
  • The hike covers two altitude levels – from the valley floor to the sunny terraces of the villages La Sage and Villaz 300 meters above.
  • The cultural heart of the valley: farmer’s markets with crafts and traditional costumes.

Turn-by-turn directions

The route of the villages leads counterclockwise from Evolène through the villages of the Val d'Hérens. The direct path to Les Haudères leads along the trail southwards out of the village. After crossing the La Borgne stream, you hike along the western bank uphill to Les Haudères. From here, the trail zigzags up to La Forclaz before descending northwards through the villages of La Sage and Villaz. From there, the path continues winding down towards the valley floor back to the starting point in Evolène.

Start

Evolène, village (1377m)

Destination

Evolène, village (1378m)

Download GPX
Download KML

Author's recommendation

The Val d'Hérens is also known for its geology. Using the "GéoGuide Val d'Hérens", available as an app or in printed form, visitors can discover the rocks and minerals on site (www.evolene-geologie.ch). In Les Haudères, visitors can also visit the Centre for Geology and Glaciology with a permanent exhibition.

Technical information

Altitude

1730m

1342m

Ascent

+500m

Descent

-500m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Round trip
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Cultural/historical interest
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Regular train connections from all over Switzerland to Sion. From there, the PostBus via Les Haudères (change required) goes to Evolène. Timetables for trains and PostBuses can be found at sbb.ch. 

Approach

Motorway A9, exit 27 (Sion-East). Then follow the signs to Evolène / Les Haudères and Arolla.

Parking

Various public parking spaces are available in the village of Evolène. Follow the local parking guidance system in Evolène.

Equipment

We recommend:

  • Good footwear
  • Weather-dependent clothing: always carry a waterproof vest
  • Headwear
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Picnic
  • Camera
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Hiking poles (optional)
  • Printout of the hiking trail (click "Print" to download) 

For some hikes:

  • Swimsuit

Safety information

The mountains, a place of joy to share and respect. The mountain world is a place to meet and create unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. For everyone to benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows all to enjoy their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules. Assess your own skills and fitness well. Using the different routes is always at your own risk.

For all hikes:

  • Carry a map with you. Download the complete description of the hiking trail with a large-scale map by clicking “Print” at the top right of the page.
  • Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signs and instructions—for your own safety, for the protection of grazing animals, and out of respect for wildlife.
  • Close gates behind you after passing.
  • Behave considerately towards other trail users, plants, and animals.

For mountain hikes:

  • Carry additional sun protection. UV rays at altitude can be very strong, even in cloudy weather.
  • Plan your hike carefully: consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal factors.
  • Weather conditions can change very quickly and without warning in the mountains. Appropriate clothing and sufficient provisions (food and drink) are very important. Return early in case of unstable weather.

For high alpine hikes:

  • Inform your family about your hiking route. If possible, avoid hiking alone.
  • Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Observe warning signs indicating dangers at riverbanks, along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Hiking responsibly

Preparing for a hike

Additional information

View this route on SwitzerlandMobility: 

More information about the destination: 

Literature

Information on the region's geology is available via the app “Géoguide du Val d'Hérens” as well as online at evolene-geologie.ch. The tourist office also provides information about hiking in the region. 

Maps

SwissTopo national maps 1:25,000: 1327 Evolène 

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

Other itineraries

10.51 km 2:02 h Easy
Trail running

Over the rocks

Evolène

Blick auf den Pigne d'Arolla beim Wildbach Torres des Maures
17.93 km 6:15 h Difficult
Hikes

Tour du Val d’Hérens: Grande Dixence dam to Arolla (stage 2)

Evolène

Grande Dixence
The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais

Search