Winter hikes

Loutze

Buvette de Loutze und Nebelmeer

Ovronnaz

With its magnificent panorama of the Valais Alps, it is an ideal family hike. One never tires of the magnificent view offered to our gaze. 

Difficulty

Easy

Length

6.84 km

Duration

2:15 h

Description

Set out for a hike offering a magnificent panorama of the Valais Alps. The villages of the plain are outlined on the horizon, revealing Sion and its castles, while the Chamoson vine terraces create their mosaics halfway up the slope. The path climbs through the forest and white meadows towards the Loutze refreshment hut.

The ascent takes you to the Loutze alp, in the municipality of Chamoson, neighboring Ovronnaz, a small resort located on a sunny plateau facing south and overlooking the Rhone valley. Surrounded by the Grand Chavalard, the peaks of the Petit and Grand Muveran, and the Haut de Cry with its limestone cliffs, the resort is also known for its thermal baths. As for Chamoson, it extends from the Rhone to the Muveran and is particularly renowned for its wines.

Turn-by-turn directions

The route starts in the Tourbillon district, at the border of the two municipalities. The path then crosses the forest, followed by an open area up to the Croix de Loutze. To the north, the Dent de Chamosentse overlooks the surroundings. Along the way, the Haut de Cry and the Rhone plain captivate your view. The route then follows the road to take you to the Loutze refreshment hut. Its terrace with panoramic views welcomes you for a well-deserved break, enhanced by Valais specialties. The same way then takes you back to Ovronnaz.

Start

Ovronnaz, Tourbillon Parking (1359m)

Destination

Ovronnaz, Tourbillon Parking (1359m)

Author's recommendation

The forest around Tourbillon is home to rich wildlife. Be discreet to observe it early in the morning. 

Technical information

Altitude

1724m

1359m

Ascent

+310m

Descent

-310m

Technique

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Dog-friendly
  • Scenic
  • Fauna
  • Out and back
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Groomed snow
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Regional train from Sion or Martigny towards Riddes. From Riddes station, postal bus to Ovronnaz and get off at the stop "Ovronnaz, Chevalley." From there, it takes about 10 minutes on foot to the Tourbillon parking lot, starting point of the hike. All information about train and bus schedules is available on cff.ch.

Approach

From the A9 motorway, take exit 24 "Riddes-Leytron-Chamoson" and follow the signs for Leytron, then Ovronnaz.

Parking

Free parking is available at Tourbillon.

Equipment

  • Good hiking boots and poles recommended (snowshoes sometimes necessary)
  • Clothing adapted to the weather and cold: always have a waterproof jacket
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle, packed lunch
  • Printed version of the route (click on "print" to download)

Safety information

  • Bring a map. Download the complete description of the route with a large scale map by clicking on the "print" icon at the top right of the page.
  • Only use marked paths and observe all signposts – for your safety, for the protection of livestock, and not to disturb wild animals.
  • Be respectful of other users as well as plants and animals. Do not litter in nature.
  • Pay particular attention to protecting yourself from the sun at altitude. UV rays can be very strong, even on cloudy days.
  • Plan your hike carefully: consider the physical level of each participant, the weather forecast, and the season.
  • Conditions vary greatly depending on sunlight and temperatures. Paths tend to freeze or harden depending on the weather.
  • It is essential to have suitable clothing, as well as sufficient food and water reserves. In case of uncertain weather, turn back in time.
  • Take note of warning signs about constant danger, especially avalanche danger.
  • Inform your relatives about your route and, whenever possible, prefer hiking in groups.

Additional information

Loutze refreshment hut open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and every day during the holidays. Subject to weather conditions.

www.buvette-de-loutze.ch 

+41 79 657 02 00

Maps

Maps:

  • 1:25,000 From the Rhone to the Muverans, mpa edition
  • 1:50,000 St-Maurice winter sports map, Swisstopo

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

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