Hikes

Chemin des Contrées

Crans-Montana

Open

As of the summer 2020, the Chemin des Contrées path links Mollens and Nayes and St-Maurice-de-Laques in the middle of the Noble Contrée region and Diogne and Chermignon-d’en-Bas, linking via the Grand Bisse to Icogne-Lens, in the heart of the Louable Contrée region. This easy and almost flat route at an altitude of 1,000m traverses extraordinary wild surroundings, with a direct link to the SMC and Post bus routes.   Punctuated by forests, scree and streams, and offering breathtaking viewpoints, this route is truly an educational excursion, thanks to seven information panels which enable walkers to explore the wealth of history in the region, thanks to testimonies from local people.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

14.82 km

Duration

4:25 h

Description

The challenge of the « Chemin des Contrées » is to link the districts known as the Louable & Noble Contrée (the territory which connects Sierre to the Plaine Morte) by a new route. The inhospitable areas of the Gouffre du Boup and the Echerts and Chertines forests were until now impassable.

 

To the east, Mollens is the departure point for this hike in a bucolic landscape, which can be enjoyed almost year-round. The area previously covered by the old commune is immense – over 3,000 hectares – stretching from the Planige plateau above Miège to the Faverges, on the boundary with the canton of Bern.

 

Along the route, different historic buildings such as the chapel, the Maison Bourgeoisiale and the communal building in Mollens allow walkers to witness the wealth of local heritage. The parish church of St-Maurice de Laques, which has Medieval origins, was once an important place of worship in the area. Walkers can therefore contemplate over 750 years of history. 

 

Further, the « Le Boup » site (a patois name which means « hole » or « ravine ») is a legacy of the glacial retreat. This amazing natural arena will delight geology fans. This mineral area transforms into an area resembling an Amazonian forest when vegetation starts growing in spring.

Turn-by-turn directions

Mollens - Departure at Carrefour de la Poste - Cross the Cantonal Road (Rue de Montana) - Take Rue de la Ciblette - Then Route de Tsampriman (ON YOUR LEFT) - Then Route de la Gare

- St-Maurice-de-Laques - Diogne - Chermignon-d'en-Bas - Icogne

Start

Mollens (1068m)

Destination

Icogne (1035m)

Technical information

Altitude

1088m

951m

Ascent

+217m

Descent

-249m

Technique

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Multi-stage route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • 'Healthy climate'
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Cultural/historical interest
Getting there
Information

Public transport

The village of Mollens is easily accessible from Sierre station or from Crans-Montana with the SMC bus company. 

The nearest stop to the start of this hike is: Mollens VS

Approach

To reach Mollens by car, take the exit of the A9 motorway (Rhône motorway) called "Sierre Est". Follow the signs for "Crans-Montana". The journey takes about 20 minutes until Mollens. 

Parking

You can park your car for free here: Rue de l'Ancienne Laiterie 1. The car park is close to the starting point of the hike. 

Equipment

Good walking shoes. 

Safety information

Please follow the marked paths and respect nature (fauna and flora).

 

You should check the weather conditions before you leave.

 

Crans-Montana Tourisme & Congrès declines all responsibility in the event of an accident.

Maps

Summer hiking map, available at the tourist office.

Hiking map Crans-Montana-Sierre, edition mpa by Orell Füssli, 1:25'000, 2019 edition

Source

This activity is brought to you by Crans-Montana Tourisme & Congrès. Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.