Valais and its people
There is nowhere with more sunshine, higher mountains and people so strongly connected to traditions and their natural environment then here in Valais.
Our homeland is legendary, modern and magical. A mountain island for mountain dwellers with a southern character. We love the dolce vita. But when work calls, we show commitment and are motivated as well as persevering. Our values shape our history, which we continue to write every day.
Wallis – welcome home
Valais is located in southwestern Switzerland. It is a place, a region and a mountain canton. But not only. Because Valais is above all a feeling that must be experienced. Depending on the region, we enjoy no less than 2,000 hours of sunshine a year. Blessed with a wide variety of exclusive regional produce, we live in a Garden of Eden where extremely rare wines caress the palate. Unspoilt nature and living tradition go hand in hand with first-class educational opportunities, top-flight research institutes and renowned companies.
We – the people of Valais
Not only are the history and geography of Valais unique – but so too are its people. Our hearts are in the right place. Freedom-loving, sociable, straightforward and direct is who we are. It is however also said that people from Valais are hard-headed and there’s something to that. We call it strong character, because we stand up for our region and our values. True mountain people, with a cosmopolitan outlook. We live our traditions while cultivating a spirit of modernity, respect and care for our beautiful natural environment.
Bonjour – good day
Valais is bilingual. While the people of Central and Lower Valais speak French, those of Upper Valais converse in Wallisertiitsch or Valais German. This is the oldest dialect in Switzerland and a good 80,000 people in the Valais speak this earthy language. It is admittedly not easy for outsiders to understand. Some even say it is a kind of secret language. Especially since almost every valley has its own dialect, by which the locals can recognise a person's origin. Would you like a little sample? "Mit iisch seit mu bis zMittag güete Tag und derna güete nAbu." Here we say good day until noon and good evening afterwards.
Culture and traditions
Are traditions outdated in the modern world? Not at all. In Valais, the two shake hands. As natives of a region whose economy is now a player in the world market, its people coing to their traditions – and they do so with heart and soul. From generation to generation, they pass on their attachment to and fascination with their cultural heritage. Holidays, castles and fortresses, museums, festivals: Valais has a rich and varied culture and cooltour.
