January 2022
Valais, playground of magical experiences
Dear journalists,
The first snowflakes have fallen on our mountains. Valais is ready to offer you a warm welcome that will surprise and energise you, all in the best possible conditions. Have a go at activities you’ve never tried before and enjoy new sensations. If you’re coming to Valais for the first time, discover a wealth of ideas for things to do: you’ll find a superb setting for your favourite leisure pursuits or for tackling new challenges. And meet Margareth Voide and Yannick Ecoeur, two fascinating people from Valais who constantly push their limits.
Would you like to find out more about Valais? We would be delighted to provide you with further information or organise an interview.
Your first stay in Valais
Discover the highlights of the Valais winter for an unforgettable first holiday here.
If you have never been to Valais before, why not plan a magical break here in a fairy-tale setting? Valais is a real winter paradise. Find inspiration among our wide choice of winter breaks and activities, to be enjoyed solo or with family, friends or a partner. Pick your ideal accommodation and choose whatever captivating and unique experiences appeal. Don’t linger – book an idyllic break now in a setting full of authentic charm.
Mouth-watering walks, even in winter
Rediscover the joys of walking, even in winter.
Walking is the best way to enjoy the tranquillity of nature in a bewitching setting – and it’s accessible to all. The activity may be associated mainly with summer, but winter is perfect, too. Rediscover the pleasures of walking in invigorating fresh mountain air through landscapes blanketed in white, sparkling in the sunshine. To make the most of your adventure, include a tasty break at a restaurant or mountain refreshment stop before setting off once again, accompanied by birdsong and the sound of snow crunching under your feet.
Thrilling pistes for experienced winter sports enthusiasts
Looking for a new challenge? Experience the most exhilarating pistes in Valais.
If you’re an experienced skier and you love high thrills, come and try some of the most exciting runs in Valais. Didier Défago, the Valais skier who won gold in the Downhill at the 2010 Winter Olympics, has chosen five black runs, mogul fields and other steeps that are guaranteed to put a big smile on the face of any advanced skier with strong technique and in good physical shape. Do you dare test your skills on these sensational slopes this winter?
Did you know?
Top tips.
Portraits.
Meet two fascinating people from Valais and let them inspire you to constantly push your limits, just like them.
Margareth Voide-Bumann
Date of birth: 15.06.1955
From: Saas-Fee
Activity: Former hotelier and restaurateur, now retired.
Note: Between 1985 and 2008, she climbed all 82 summits above 4,000 metres in the Alps.
Favourite place: Längfluh, above Saas-Fee, which offers a magnificent view of the peaks of the majestic Mischabel massif. From the balcony of her apartment, too, she can see the snowy summits of the Alphubel, Allalinhorn and Dom, the highest peak entirely on Swiss territory – and every day, the sight fills her with joy.
Yannick Ecoeur
Date of birth: 23.08.1981
From: Morgins
Activity: Border guard; for 15 years, he was a professional ski mountaineer
Note: Yannick won the Patrouille des Glaciers (ski mountaineering race from Zermatt to Verbier) in 2010 with Florent Troillet and Martin Anthamatten. He says this was his proudest moment.
Favourite place: Région Dents du Midi
Valais in figures
300 days of sunshine a year
45 mountain summits above 4,000 metres
445 cable cars, gondolas, chairlifts and other ski lifts
45 ski areas
1,991 kilometres of piste, of which the highest is 3,899 metres above sea level
403 kilometres of officially approved winter walking trails
323 kilometres of officially approved snowshoe trails
71 kilometres of officially approved cross-country ski trails
13 ski touring parks