Family Holidays in Valais
10 reasons for spending your family holidays in Valais
Valais is THE destination for families in Switzerland! Here are ten reasons for spending your family holidays in Valais. See wild animals in their natural habitat, hike along paths with an extraordinary history, taste the local produce, spend the night in unique places or attend events that are suitable for young children... discover why Valais is the ideal family experience!
1) 8 “Family Destination” Resorts
Eight resorts in Valais have been awarded the “Family Destination” label: the Aletsch Arena, Bellwald, Blatten-Belalp, Crans-Montana, Grächen – St. Niklaus, Nendaz, Saas-Fee and Zermatt – Matterhorn. All meet the criteria set by the Swiss Tourism Federation for holiday destinations which are especially geared towards the needs of families and committed to sustainability.
2) Natural attractions
Endless forests, majestic mountains and glaciers, unspoilt natural landscapes, fresh mountain air and 300 days of sunshine a year: the breathtaking natural expanse of Valais, with its great diversity of flora and fauna, is just waiting to be discovered. There’s a new view at every turn as stunning vistas of the mountain peaks open up before you, forming a magical panorama.
3) Experiences on the Farm
Memorable experiences can be enjoyed at a large number of farms in Valais. Looking after the animals, gathering fruit, helping out in the vegetable garden, making cheese – there are so many opportunities to take part in everyday activities while enjoying a special time with the family on the farm. So what are you waiting for? Set out to discover Valais’s farms and cottages.
4) Lots of Wild Animals and Native Species
With its wild and rugged yet sometimes gentle topography, Valais is home to a rich variety of fauna. There is so much to observe in the amazing animal world of Valais. Look for marmots in Saastal, marvel at the bearded vultures in flight above the rocky slopes of the Gemmi or in the Derborence Valley, admire migrating birds at the ornithological centre on the Col de Bretolet or spot ibex, red and roe deer in their natural habitat.
5) A Land of Flavours
Dried meat, sausages, bacon, cheese – the menu for a typical Valais brunch consists entirely of home-made produce. Enough to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds! A meal surrounded by Herens cattle or a picnic on the grass is a moment to be shared by all the family. Mountain pastures, farms and other establishments serve delicious brunches.
6) Aquatic Fun
On hot days, a dip in a picturesque mountain lake is a wonderful way to cool down, and a variety of water play equipment keeps everyone well entertained. Kneipp trails offer a chance to freshen up during a hike and the countless indoor and open-air swimming pools have water slides, rapid rivers and sports pools for young and old.
7) Wildlife Parks
Fun for all ages, Valais’s wildlife parks are home to domestic, wild and farm animals. Cows, goats, ibex, foxes and even black bears live here peacefully in their natural environment. Discover the rich alpine fauna of Valais at the Aletsch Animal Park or Les Marécottes Zoo, where the little black bear Mirus has been born last winter!
8) Accommodation for families
Places with the “Family Destination” label offer accommodation perfectly suited to your requirements: 13 Swiss Family Hotels or establishments branded “family-friendly” by the Swiss Hotel Association, 1192 holiday apartments with the “Families Welcome” quality label, two Reka holiday villages and three youth hostels. There are also specific amenities available to you throughout your stay: cots, high chairs and also games rooms.
9) Multitude of Hiking Trails
Valais has numerous hiking trails that are suitable for families. Some routes cross lush meadows or run alongside historic bisses, others pass by deep blue mountain lakes or take the form of educational or adventure trails. No detail goes unnoticed: flowers by the side of the trail, animal tracks you can try and recognise, instructive information panels about the fauna, glaciers and mountains of Valais.
10) Events for All Ages
Whether cultural, sporting or related to the native animals of Valais, several events in summer are ideal for families. The driving of cattle to and from their summer alpine pastures turns the spotlight on the Herens breed. As for the “Hérisson sous gazon” festival, two full days of concerts, performances and workshops delight young and old alike. And what better way to unwind than to tackle a fancy dress obstacle course in the superb setting of the Valais Alps?
