Valais Vineyards★★
The Valais is the largest wine region in Switzerland — and one of the steepest in the world. On the southern slopes of the Rhone Valley, vines ripen on terraces, producing Swiss wines of world-class quality. Valais is the sunniest region in Switzerland (over 300 sunny days!).
★★ Wine Trail Salgesch–Sierre
The vineyard trail between Salgesch and Sierre (6 km, 2 hours, easy) leads through the best wine locations in Valais: Information boards explain the grape varieties, terracing, and irrigation (historic Suonen/Bisses = open water channels). Wine tasting at the wine museum in Salgesch: 5 wines for 10 CHF.
★ Indigenous Valais Varieties
Valais has grape varieties found nowhere else:
- Fendant (Chasselas): The white wine for fondue — dry, mineral, perfect.
- Petite Arvine: Elegant, complex white wine with a salty note — a Valais specialty.
- Cornalin: Robust red wine, grown only in Valais.
- Humagne Rouge: Rustic red wine with wild fruit aromas.
A tasting in a Cave (wine cellar) is a must: Cave du Rhodan in Salgesch, Cave Imesch in Sierre, or Domaine du Mont d'Or in Sion.
💡 Tipp
The Suonen hikes (along the historic irrigation channels) are among the most beautiful hikes in Switzerland: Flat, scenic, and with a vineyard panorama. The Suone de Clavau near Sion is particularly beautiful — 2 hours, easy, ending in a cave for tasting.
