Cycling routes

Valais Bike Tour: Le Bouveret - Sion (Stage 10)

Radprofi Steve Morabito mit Freunden unterwegs im Rhonetal kurz vor Sion.

Le Bouveret

From Le Bouveret on Lake Geneva to the cantonal capital Sion – this stage takes you along the Rhone riverbank, through vineyards, and to the well-known thermal resort of Ovronnaz.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

85.79 km

Duration

6:35 h

Description

Valais is not only a mountainous region; its area extends to the shores of Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Europe. The first section of the route follows the Rhone river, which is symbolic of Valais. This stage also lets you discover the splendid Valais vineyard, the largest vineyard in Switzerland. The ascent to the thermal resort of Ovronnaz is the highlight of this stage and is marked by the Valais bike route signage. On the subsequent descent to the wine-growing village of Chamoson, you will be greeted by a magnificent panorama. The route then continues towards Ardon, Conthey, and finally to Sion. Treat yourself to a well-deserved break on one of the charming terraces in the city center!

Turn-by-turn directions

The start of the route is flat and runs in the shade along the Rhone riverbank. After leaving St-Maurice and its centuries-old abbey behind, you change direction at the height of Martigny and the Rhone bend. You continue to push further into the heart of Valais by passing through Fully and its orchards. Then you ride through the vineyard before tackling the ascent towards Ovronnaz. Enjoy especially the impressive panoramic view on the descent into the wine-growing village of Chamoson. The route then takes you via Ardon and Conthey to Sion. Treat yourself to a well-deserved break on one of the charming terraces in the city center!

Start

Le Bouveret, Rte du Lac (374m)

Destination

Sion, Rue de l’Industrie, 1950 Sion (487m)

Author's recommendation

At the height of Illarsaz, you reach the velodrome at the World Cycling Centre (CMC) in Aigle via the Rhone footbridge, where the restaurant Le Vélodrome also offers refreshments.

Technical information

Altitude

1371m

374m

Ascent

+1179m

Descent

-1065m

Technique

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
  • Summit route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent
Getting there
Information

Public transport

SBB train or bus from St-Maurice/Monthey.

Approach

Highway A9 to exit Villeneuve, then continue on the H144. After crossing the Rhone, turn right and continue on main road 21 towards France until reaching Le Bouveret.

Parking

Since this route is a partial section of a stage route and the starting point does not match the destination, we recommend arriving by public transport. For this purpose, the car parks at Aquaparc or Swiss Vapeur Parc in Le Bouveret can be used. Follow the local parking guidance system for this.

Equipment

Our recommendation: technically sound bicycle, helmet, gloves, and bell, appropriate clothing depending on the weather (always carry rain protection), drink, and provisions.

Safety information

Respect the rules of Swiss road traffic. Riding this route is at your own risk; all liability is excluded. Respect the flora and fauna in your surroundings. For your safety, we recommend wearing a bicycle helmet. Emergency numbers: 144 ambulance / 117 police / 1414 Rega. Assess your own skills and fitness well. Riding the different routes is fundamentally at your own responsibility.

Additional information

Further information about the destinations can be found here:

Maps

Topographic maps SwissTopo: 1:25,000

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais