Cross-country skiing

3. Zinal - Large loop of Plats de la Lée (red trail)

Zinal

Demanding loop (classic/skating) away from the village with a splendid view of the majestic Besso.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

5.69 km

Duration

1:30 h

Description

This classic or skating style loop takes you between Pont de Singline and Pont de Gietti, in the enchanting setting of the Plats de la Lée, along the Navizence river. This route through the heart of nature, between mountains and river, offers a magnificent view of the valley bottom and the majestic Besso.

Shortly before the finish, you can enjoy a small break at the Relais de la Tzoucdana to regain energy.

Turn-by-turn directions

Start at the Pont de Singline, next to the Plats de la Lée parking lot. Cross the bridge, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Besso, and follow the trail along the Navizence river. Towards the small Torrent Laulosses, take the trail that goes right, along the valley slope, and follow it to the bottom of the Plats de la Lée. The trail then returns towards the Pont de Gietti. Cross the bridge and follow the Navizence towards the village of Zinal. Then, when you reach Chemin des Clotis, take the trail that goes right and makes a small detour before returning to the Navizence. Then follow the trail back to the starting point.

Follow the signs indicating the cross-country ski trail.

Start

Zinal, Plats de la Lée, 1674m (1674m)

Destination

Zinal, Plats de la Lée, 1674m (1663m)

Author's recommendation

Enjoy a local specialty at the Relais de la Tzoucdana, just a few meters from the trail and the start/finish point.

Technical information

Altitude

1756m

1664m

Ascent

+82m

Descent

-93m

Technique

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Round trip
Getting there
Information

Public transport

From Sierre take the bus towards Vissoie (line 12.451). At Vissoie, change buses and take the one heading to Zinal (line 12.453) and get off at the Plats de la Lée stop, 2 minutes from the start.

Approach

Leave the A9 motorway at the Sierre-Est exit (No. 29). Take the direction of the Val d'Anniviers to the village of Zinal and continue on the Cinq 4000 road to Plats de la Lée.

Parking

It is possible to park at the Plats de la Lée parking lot, 2 minutes from the start. The parking is paid.

Equipment

We recommend:

  • Good cross-country ski equipment
  • Clothing suitable for the weather and cold: always have a waterproof jacket
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle, picnic
  • Camera
  • Printed version of the route (click on "print" to download)

Most sports shops in Val d'Anniviers rent cross-country ski equipment.

Safety information

Use of the routes and information on this website is the responsibility of each skier. Valais/Wallis Promotion and Anniviers Tourisme disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the website information.

  • Take a map. Download the full description of the route with a large-scale map by clicking the "print" icon at the top right of the page.
  • Use only marked trails and observe all signs – for your safety, to protect livestock and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Be respectful of other users, as well as plants and animals. Do not litter in nature.
  • Pay particular attention to protect yourself from the sun at altitude. UV rays can be very strong, even under cloudy skies.
  • Weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly in the mountains. It is essential to have suitable clothing.
  • Be aware of warning signs of constant danger, especially avalanche danger.
  • In case of heavy snowfall, trail marking may be lacking.
  • Trails may be closed at any time for safety reasons (avalanches, snowfall). Remember to check with the Tourist Office before venturing out.

Additional information

Learn more about the destination: Anniviers - www.valdanniviers.ch

The Zinal Tourist Office provides brochures for cross-country skiing in the region.

Source

This activity is brought to you by Val d'Anniviers. Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais