Hikes

Cleuson reservoir

Wanderung um den Cleuson Stausee

Nendaz

Start a beautiful hike along a former Suone with a unique view of the Cleuson reservoir and its turquoise water.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

11.6 km

Duration

3:10 h

Description

The route along the former Suone of Chervé with its unique dry stone walls promises a beautiful high-altitude hike. Along the way, the view opens increasingly on the blue water of the Cleuson reservoir and the impressive dam. At the summit of the hike, be surprised by the beauty and colors of the landscape. Before returning to Siviez, visit the charming mountain chapel of St. Barthélémy in its delightful alpine setting.

Turn-by-turn directions

From the mountain station of the Combatseline chairlift in Siviez, follow the marked trail along the former Suone of Chervé to above the reservoir of Cleuson. Then descend to the dam and walk along the turquoise water of the lake. After reaching the chapel of St. Barthélémy, stroll leisurely from the far end of the lake on a pleasantly shaded path. After passing through part of the forest, follow a small stream near the Alpe of Tortin, then return to the starting point in Siviez.

Start

Combatseline (mountain station of the Siviez-Combatseline chairlift) (2241m)

Destination

Siviez (1729m)

Author's recommendation

Don’t miss a tour inside the impressive dam of Cleuson in summer. The guided tour lasts about an hour and takes place on Friday afternoons.

Technical information

Altitude

2355m

1728m

Ascent

+123m

Descent

-710m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • 'Healthy climate'
  • Round trip
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent
Getting there
Information

Public transport

From Geneva or Brig, take the train to Sion. Change to the post bus to the Haute-Nendaz gondola, then to Siviez. Upon arrival in Siviez, take the chairlift to Combatseline.

Approach

Follow the A9 motorway and take exit 26 (Sion-West) coming from Martigny or exit 27 (Sion-East) coming from Brig and drive towards Haute-Nendaz / Siviez.

Parking

Ample parking available at the valley station of the ski lifts in Siviez.

Equipment

We recommend:

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

For certain hikes:

  • Swimsuit

Safety information

The mountains, a place of joy for sharing and respecting. The mountain world is a place to meet and experience unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. To allow everyone to benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to enjoy their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules. Evaluate your own skills and fitness carefully. Using the various 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 respect all signs and instructions - for your own safety, to protect grazing animals, and out of respect for wildlife.
  • Close gates behind you after passing through.
  • 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 on cloudy days.
  • Plan your hike carefully: Consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal factors.
  • Weather conditions in the mountains can change very quickly and without warning. Appropriate clothing and sufficient supplies (food and drink) are very important. In unstable weather, it is better to turn back early. 

For high alpine hikes:

  • Inform your family about your hiking route. Avoid being alone if possible.
  • Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Observe warning signs indicating danger on riverbanks, along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: Water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Hiking responsibly

Preparing for a hike

Additional information

More information:

Literature

The tourism office in Nendaz provides brochures about hiking in the region.

Maps

Swisstopo official maps 1:25,000: 1326 Rosablanche

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

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