Tourism in the Valais. Plain. Official partner

Transcription

1 Tourism in the Valais Plain Official partner

2 The Valais Plain: A World of Ideas to Inspire You! The Valais Plain is a world of its own and a «country within a country». Amid this landscape of contrasts, a strong sense of harmony is created by the river Rhone (to which the plain owes its very existence), the vineyards that cover the hillsides and the region s architectural heritage. This brochure aims to present some of the aspects of this multi-faceted region a brief compendium that we hope will arouse your curiosity. Then it s up to you to set out on a voyage to discover the Valais Plain. We couldn t put it more «plainly» come and see for yourself! Contents 4-7 Map of Valais 8-11 Nature Well-being Fun Golf Cycling Wine and vineyards Agritourism Special offers Towns and their attractions Monthey Saint-Maurice Martigny Saillon Sion Sierre Leuk Visp Brig Events Did you know that our canton is bilingual? French is spoken in the Lower Valais (in the west) and the central region, whereas German is the language of the Upper Valais (in the east of the canton). So don t be surprised if some places have two names! This table will help you to find your way around: French Martigny Sion Sierre Salquenen La Souste Loèche Loèche-les-Bains Varone Tourtemagne Rarogne Viège Brigue German Martinach Sitten Siders Salgesch Susten Leuk Leukerbad Varen Turtmann Raron Visp Brig Published by the tourist offices from the major plain towns in the Valais. Printing Imprimerie Gessler - Sion. Graphics and layout Atelier Grand - Sierre. Circulation 100,000 copies. Drawings for maps Victor Fiorini - Sierre. Photographic rights p. 8 ; p Instants figés ; p. 26 Valaisfardeyimages ; p. 28 1) Patrick-Alexandre Braem 2) Jörgh Aefeli 3) Séverine Rouiller 5) Grégoire Montangero ; p. 32 Saillon) Patrick Giroud ; p. 34 Marty Sohl-Spirale communication ; p. 35 et 36/5) Baptiste Zenker ; p. 36 1) Declic photo 2) Patch 3) Fred Sierroz 4) Joana Marques ; p. 43 Stefan Engler ; p. 44 1) Muriel Jeanmonod Salamin 2) Gaël Papilloud 3) Valais Tourisme - 4) Florence Kielholz ; p. 47 6) Fondation Louis Moret 7+9) Marion Biselx - 8) Fondation Tissières ; p. 53 Nicolas Sedlatchek ; p. 59 Khaled Bashour ; p for as well as the tourist offices in the major plain towns in Valais, (p ), (p. 1, 33/Sierre, 60/ ) and (p , 47/10, 49, 63/8, 73). Contents and context initiated by the major towns in Valais, this brochure has been produced by a common desire to show the touristic activities available in the Rhône plain. It complements everything available in the surrounding mountain areas which we also invite you to explore. Its content was checked in May 2013 and we decline all responsibility in the event of later changes. Cette publication existe en français. N hésitez pas à la demander à l endroit où vous l avez prise. Diese Broschüre existiert in deutscher Sprache. Zögern Sie nicht danach zu fragen.

3 Valais, the Alps and the Source of the Rhone < Lausanne Geneva Lake Geneva St-Gingolph Les Evouettes Vouvry Torgon Vionnaz FRANCE Le Bouveret Port-Valais Collombey Monthey Morgins < Basel - Bern Zurich Val d Illiez Rhône Champéry Lake Emosson Aigle Massongex Bex Salvan Les Marécottes La Forclaz pass St-Maurice Lavey Evionnaz Martigny Vernayaz Bovernier Saillon Charrat-Fully Sembrancher Champex-Lac Orsières Ovronnaz Riddes Saxon Val de Bagnes Val d Entremont Great St. Bernard pass and tunnel > Leytron RER Valais Wallis Your partner for mobility in the Rhône valley. Wherever you are in the Rhône Valley, there s inevitably a station nearby. Find your closest station thanks to this pictogram and safe journey! Check timetables at Conthey Vétroz Ardon Chamoson Verbier Le Châble Savièse Anzère Sion Châteauneuf Veysonnaz Nendaz Thyon Lake Dix St-Léonard Nax Grône Val d Hérens Crans-Montana Venthône Sierre Granges Vercorin Vallon de Réchy Evolène Arolla Varen Salgesch Inden Leuk Susten Agarn St-Luc Val d Anniviers Grimentz Lake Moiry Leukerbad Zinal Albinen Chandolin Guttet Erschmatt Turtmanntal < Basel Bern Zurich Lötschberg tunnel Mattertal Lötschental Goppenstein Niedergesteln Gampel Raron Turtmann Oberems Unterbäch Bürchen Täsch Zermatt St. Niklaus Eggerberg Naters Ausserberg Birgisch Mund Brigerbad Glis Gamsen Eyholz Grächen Visp Visperterminen Stalden Saastal Belalp Blatten Saas-Fee Riederalp Brig Lake Mattmark Mörel Rothwald Bettmeralp Breiten Ried-Brig / Termen Rosswald Simplontal Simplon Aletsch glacier Fiesch Ernen ITALY Binntal Goms Rhône Simplon pass and tunnel Gondo Ulrichen Oberwald Grimsel pass > Furka pass > 10 km This map is a schematic view for indicative purposes only. Please consult more detailed maps for your excursions. 7 Nufenen pass

4 Nature: The source Regional Nature Park Pfyn-Finges Come and see for yourself! The natural wonders of Valais: a symphony of colours whose movements are the four seasons, astonishing in their abundance but easily accessible. Sometimes wild, always authentic, the ideal source of regeneration. This brochure presents a few personal recommendations. Photo: Roland Gerth Visit the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park at the heart of Valais! We would be happy to welcome you to the Nature and Landscape Centre in Salgesch and advise you about the various excursions on offer. The centre also contains a shop selling regional products and an interactive exhibition on the construction of the A9 in the Pfyn forest. From April to the end of November we are offering an exciting excursion every Wednesday afternoon. Additional offers, information and registration: Tel. +41 (0) [email protected] 8 Exhibition at the NLC Salgesch Incl. Sat & Sun Open from

5 Parks and nature reserves true Gardens of Eden The people of Valais are truly appreciative of their native land. We live in close harmony with it and take active steps to preserve it, but at the same time we invite you to travel its length and breadth. A few suggestions from the wealth of ideas on offer: the Bois-Noir pine forest (between Evionnaz and Saint-Maurice), the gorges of Trient (Vernayaz) and Durnand (Bovernier), the nature reserves of Les Follatères (Fully) and Montorge (Sion), the Maya/Mont-Noble biosphere between Grône and the Hérens Valley, the Finges nature park between Sierre and Gampel, the Turtmann waterfalls and the Brig region (Jungfrau-Aletsch) and its UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The Rhone: a river that laughs at frontiers From the sources of the Rhone Glacier to Lake Geneva, the banks of the river offer over 140 km of walks that combine fresh cool air, tranquility and natural beauty. Bisses and theme paths: your chance to commune with nature Throughout Valais, every region offers theme paths and bisses (rural irrigation channels) for visitors to discover. For more detailed information, all Tourist Offices will provide you with suitable maps and detailed route suggestions

6 Thermal resorts: Sources of health Water gushing forth as the snows melt, or pouring in abundance from a host of thermal springs the best possible source of well-being. No matter where you are in the Rhone Plain, you re sure to be close to a thermal resort. Lavey Spa 1892 Lavey-les-Bains +41 (0) Saillon Spa 1913 Saillon +41 (0) Brigerbad Spa 3900 Brigerbad +41 (0)

7 Price Wakker 2013 Pub volerie des chateaux Discovery Walk km U 1h15 Sion (capital of the Valais) has more than years of history. You are invited to discover the exceptional and beautiful historical centre of the town, trough our Discovery Walk. Guided tours The best way to discover the treasures of Sion. You can visit places that are normally closed to the public. Prices for groups (1 guide for 25 pers.) from CHF JSBACH SION LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW 17 JUILLET -14 SEPTEMBRE 2013 EVERY WE + TH + FR + SA FREE ENTRANCE P tit Sédunois Go on an expedition with the tourist train of Sion. From June till September Detailed schedule at the Tourist Office of Sion Fr. 4.- adult Fr. 2.- child Tourist Office of Sion - T +41 (0)

8 Theme Parks: for thrills and spills In addition to the natural beauty of the plain region, there are also several theme parks of international standing. Labyrinthe Aventure A natural maze (with 18,000 thuya trees), slides and children s games. Rte des Iles Vieilles Evionnaz +41 (0) Aquaparc The Caribbean on Lake Geneva fun and wellbeing. Rte de la Plage 1897 Le Bouveret +41 (0) Happyland A park covering 25,000 m 2 with a mix of attractions for the whole family. Rue du Foulon, 3977 Granges +41 (0) Swiss Vapeur Parc Miniature railways that bring Switzerland s architectural heritage alive. Rte de la Plage 1897 Le Bouveret +41 (0) Fun Planet An indoor complex covering 5,000 m 2 with gokarts, bowling and a variety of fun and games. Kantonsstr Gamsen +41 (0) Parc Aventure Follow the trails in the trees (Children age 4 and over). Domaine des Îles, 1950 Sion Ch. du Fahy, 1860 Aigle +41 (0) Plenty of other activities are available in the Rhone Plain bowling, go-karting, canyoning, rafting, paintball and horse-riding, to name a few examples. Be sure to ask for information at the nearest Tourist Office! 16 17

9 Golf courses: sources of pure delight Tee-off amid terraced vineyards or in the shadow of thousand-year old castles, in a nature park or even near a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site? Here, all of these options are yours! Sierre Golf Course 18 holes par Granges +41 (0) Sion Golf Course 18 holes par 70 Rte de Vissigen Sion +41 (0) Leuk Golf Course 18 holes par Susten +41 (0)

10 Soft mobility, a source of respect Because we only have one planet, and we should be looking after it, because even the smallest gesture affects our environment and because nature is our most precious possession, we advise soft mobility. Here are three places where you can easily rent bicycles. Valaisroule All over the canton All types of bicycles, for all ages. Tandem91 Steg-Gampel Special bicycles, adapted for the disabled and the elderly. Velopass Monthey & Sion Self-service bicycles

11 Walking the Via Francigena. Take the St. Bernard Express train to discover some unparalleled places. In cooperation with Plus de / Mehr als Più di / More than 3 JOURS DE TRANSPORT VALABLES SUR 1 SEMAINE! Freie Fahrt an 3 Tagen innerhalb einer Woche! 3 giorni di trasporto validi una settimana! 3 days of travel valid within a one-week period! via-francigena gsb360.com Office du Tourisme de Sion Office du Tourisme de Sierre, Salgesch et Environs boomerang-marketing.ch / eddy pelfini.ch photo VERBIER St-Bernard

12 Let the wine flow! The wines of Valais to taste them is to love them! With over 5,000 hectares of vines, Valais has the largest area of vineyards in Switzerland. Some 60 different grape varieties, many of them very well-known, are cultivated here at altitudes which range from 450 to 800 metres. The dryness of the Valais microclimate and the fertility of the rocky limestone soil explain, amongst other factors, this great propensity to produce top-quality, fine wines. These wines transport us elsewhere, telling a wonderful story each time we savour them. Petite Arvine, Johannisberg, Heida, Fendant, Cornalin, Humagne Rouge, Syrah, Amigne, Marsanne, they have temperament, panache, depth and class. Each wine is an invitation to dream!

13 Behind Switzerland s top wine events The vineyard route From Martigny to Leuk, this route takes you through countryside with terraced vineyards where you will make some surprising discoveries as you visit the vineyards and wine producers. You can choose to cover the route on foot (66 km), by bicycle (83 km) or on roads suitable for cars (55 km). A detailed guide (price: CHF 10) is available from your nearest Tourist Office. Download the free Vinea Swiss Wines app and start exploring Swiss wines. Association Vinea Rue Sainte-Catherine 10, CH-3960 Sierre [email protected] 26

14 St-Pierre-de-Clages, a cultural and gastronomic stop 11th century church Swiss Book Town Lovely terraces to enjoy a drink or a meal Pub encaveurs de sion The Wine Producers Association of Sion organize different events during the year Jardin des Vins weekend of Ascension Sion - Fête du Goût in September Balade des Divins every first Saturday of the month, for groups, on request, according to convenience WINE BAR "LE VERRE À PIED" St-Pierre-de-Clages Village Suisse du Livre Avenue du Grand-Pont Sion Opening times: 7 days a week Monday - Saturday 10h30-13h 16h30-20h30 Sunday 10h30-14h 17h - 20h

15 Agritourism, a source of discovery As we re proud of our local area and how lucky we are here, we advocate sustainable and responsible tourism, meeting local farmers and eating local produce. By closely experiencing local agriculture, whether through alternative accommodation, authentic food & wine tastings or by rural discoveries, your stay will become a unique sensory experience

16 Special offers, a source of good deals MONTHEY -10% Crochetan This varied package offers the opportunity for an unforgettable experience enjoying the performing arts: theatre, comedy, dance, circus or music. SIERRE CHF 33.- Funivin This ideal package includes a return with the Sierre-Montana-Crans funicular (valid in both directions),a visit to the Valais Museum of Wine and Vines and also wine-tasting at the Château de Villa wine bar. ST-MAURICE From CHF Tour of the Dents-du-Midi This legendary walking tour offers fabulous scenery featuring lakes, glaciers and waterfalls. Accessible for families, it is possible to complete it in 2, 3 or 4 days from June to October. Kulturlandschaftsführer Leuk Leuk Sylvie Rüttimann Guy Schneider, Carlo Schmidt CHF 35.- LEUK Guide to Leuk s cultural landscape A novel guide offers a way to discover Leuk, a little town nestled between two ravines. Three cultural itineraries are presented via fascinating stories which lead you to the scenery of Bella Tola. MARTIGNY VISP Art & culture This full package offers accommodation (from 1 to 3 nights including breakfast), set menu, admission to the Gianadda Institute and a bottle of Gianadda house wine. From CHF 85.- Weber AG Verlag Pocket Connect This flexible deal gives you internet access for 5 days (max. five devices 5Go). 2 additional days available for the same price! CHF 36.- CHF 40.- SAILLON Les Domaines de la Sarvaz - Henri Thurre Between 1925 and 1962, the Domaines de la Sarvaz played an essential pioneering role in modernising agriculture in the Valais. Learn about them in this unique book (IN FRENCH). SION CHF 89.- La Balade des Divins This original package cleverly combines exploring monuments in Sion old town with local gastronomy and savouring ten different wines. BRIG -10% Brigerbad This worthwhile offer gives you 10% discount at the thermal baths in Brigerbad (on presentation of this brochure). Information & reservations at the tourist office and/or relevant partner

17 Monthey Region Lower-Valais Ville de Culture Kulturstadt City of Culture Between Lake Geneva and the Valais Alps, the industrial appearance of Monthey is fading into the background, leaving the focus on cultural and sport activities. Monthey Tourism Office Place Centrale 3, 1870 Monthey +41 (0)

18 Monthey Guided tours are available 1 Crochetan Theatre and its gallery This welcoming theatre hosts over 45 shows and exhibitions a year, giving an international influence to the region. Rue du Théâtre 6, Monthey +41 (0) Av. du Crochetan Villeneuve MONTHEY 3 2 Pont Rouge From the very depths of these old abattoirs roars the sound of contemporary music. National and international headliners share the stage with local groups. Av. de France Rue Monthéolo Av. de l Europe Gare CFF 3 Verney sport area With an ice rink, tennis court, skatepark, beach volleyball court, athletics track, football, baseball and basketball, expand your energy at Verney. 5 Av. du Crochetan Gare AOMC 1 du Théâtre Rue du Collège Avenue de la Gare 4 Stained glass and fine arts college This college, unique in Switzerland, offers training for amateurs and professionals in stained glass and plate glass arts. Rue de Venise 13, Monthey +41 (0) Place Centrale Av. des Alpes Rue de la Tannerie Av. de la Plantaud Av. de l Industrie Rue du Pont 5 Glacial boulders This educational path presents the extraordinary geological phenomenon which carried boulders weighing several hundred tons to the area between Monthey and Collombey. Route de la Cretta Route de Choëx 4 Quai de la Vièze Avenue du Simplon 2 36 Route du Chili St-Maurice

19 Saint-Maurice Region Lower Valais Pub lavey les bains Rich in art and history, the town of Saint-Maurice nestles between the shores of Lake Geneva and the Alpine peaks. This charming miniature city is dominated by a majestic cliff. 38 Saint-Maurice Tourism Office Av. des Terreaux 1, 1890 Saint-Maurice [email protected] +41 (0)

20 Monthey Saint-Maurice Guided tours are available 2 5 Bex 1 Abbey of Saint-Maurice A visit to the abbey of Saint-Maurice, founded in 515, will bring to life almost 1,500 years of uninterrupted monastic life. Av. d Agaune 15, Saint-Maurice +41 (0) SAINT-MAURICE 2 Fairy Grotto Over the millennia, water has worn its way through the rock to create the Fairy Grotto. Visitors have been delighted by its small underground lake and waterfall since (0) Av. d Agaune Grand-Rue Av. des Terreaux RHÔNE 3 Castle of Saint-Maurice Standing guard over the gateway to the Rhone Valley, this castle proudly displays its rich past and also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions. Rte du Chablais, Saint-Maurice +41 (0) Historical Fortress The galleries in the forts of Scex and Cindey reveal the hidden side of military structures that used to be classified as «top secret». Av. du Simplon Rue de la Cime de l Est Av. du Midi Rte du Léman Lavey- Les-Bains Rte du Simplon 5 Bex salt mines In the Bex salt mines, visitors discover a huge labyrinth of galleries, wells, stairways and underground caverns covering more than 50 km. Rte des Mines de Sel Le Bouillet, Bex +41 (0) Martigny

21 Martigny Region Lower Valais An arts centre that enjoys a Mediterranean climate: at Martigny, you can discover Roman ruins, the Tower of La Bâtiaz, two museums that are unique in Switzerland, and an impressive collection of sculptures. Martigny Tourism Office Av. de la Gare 6, 1920 Martigny [email protected] +41 (0)

22 Martigny Guided tours are available 1 Pierre Gianadda Foundation This major art museum has been a «mustsee» on every visitor s itinerary since 1978, thanks to its prestigious exhibitions. It houses an extensive park containing 35 sculptures, an automobile museum and the Gallo-Roman Museum. Rue du Forum 18, Martigny +41 (0) St Bernard Museum and Dogs The famous dogs frolic around the park while upstairs, the permanent exhibition narrates the history of the pass and hospice. Souvenir shop, restaurant and beautiful terrace. Rue du Levant, Martigny +41 (0) Archeological Walk Discover Roman Martigny with its amphitheatre that can seat 5,000, a temple to Mithra that is unique in Switzerland, the Church cellars, the Gallo-Roman museum and the Tepidarium from the Pierre Gianadda Foundation. Av. de la Gare 6, Martigny +41 (0) La Bâtiaz Castle Since its restoration in 2000, its attractions include a medieval tavern for 90 people, a torture chamber, a 3D film show and extraordinary views of the town from the top of the keep. Open from May to October. +41 (0) Col de la Forclaz Chamonix (France) 10 La Dranse Rte de la Forclaz Ch. des Barrières Av. de la Fusion 6 4 Av. du Grand-St-Bernard Rue Marc-Morand 1 5 Place 8 centrale 7 3 Rue du Forum Saint-Maurice 2 3 Rue du Léman Av. de la Gare Rue du Simplon Rue d Octodure Rue du Levant Gare CFF Rue du Simplon Av. des Neuvilles Sion Martigny 6 Louis Moret Foundation Guided tours are available In an open area of natural greenery, the Foundation stages 5 exhibitions each year featuring contemporary artists including painters, sculptors, architects and photographers. Ch. des Barrières 31, Martigny +41 (0) Morand Distillery Ever since 1889, the Morand family has been producing the best brandies from fruit grown in their orchards. Williamine and abricotine are the distillery s flagship products. Place de Plaisance, Martigny +41 (0) Museum of Earth Sciences Be amazed by the collection of minerals, enjoy the temporary exhibitions and lecture series, and explore a reconstructed underground mine. Av. de la Gare 6, Martigny +41 (0) Semblanet Mill One of the few watermills dating back to the 18 th century that is still in operation invites you to discover the work of local artists or sample the bread (Fridays), accompanied by a local wine and a typical dish of the region. +41 (0) Manoir de la Ville (Town Manor) This 18 th -century residence hosts contemporary art exhibits with a mix of plastic arts, literature, music and philosophy. The attic houses the Guex-Joris collection on the history of audio recording to the present day. +41 (0) Martigny-Bourg 9 Verbier Martigny-Bourg MARTIGNY 10 Plan-Cerisier A typical little village amid the vineyards, with slate roofs, vines and a cafe with a shady terrace offering a superb panoramic view of the entire Rhone valley. There s also a small wine-growing museum to discover here. 47

23 Saillon Region Central Valais Saillon, asparagus town, welcomes you to its remarkably well-preserved village. If you visit, you re sure to appreciate the medieval, thermal, cultural, winegrowing village that is Saillon. Saillon Tourism Office Route du Centre Thermal 23, 1913 Saillon +41 (0)

24 Saillon Guided tours are available 5 Sion 3 1 R ue des Bourneaux Avenue des Comtes de Savoie 1 Saillon thermal baths A river and 4 thermal baths, plus the «Mayens du Bien-être» village of saunas & a steam bath make the Bains de Saillon a great place for thermal fun. +41 (0) Route des Versannes Sentier Barbe ane nt Chemin des Ecoliers 2 Medieval village Bourg Built around the year 1000, the medieval village enclosed within the XIIIth century ramparts, pierced by 4 gates, is one of the best preserved in Switzerland. Rue d u 3 Stained glass path This itinerary features 21 stained glass windows, works of art by the artist Héritier and the stained glass maker Imboden. This 45 minute long route leads from the Place Farinet to the vineyards. Route d Anzé Rue des Remparts Rue St-Jacques 2 Rue du Bourg Chemin de la Tour 4 Marble quarries Vers le Scex The working sites are located in the hamlet of Sarvaz and on the hillsides of the Grand Garde. You can reach them on foot, through vineyards and forest. Chemin des Ecoliers 5 Via Farinetta Opened in May 2011, the Via Farinetta was designed for the enjoyment of sports fans, nature lovers and climbing fans Route des Chavannes SAILLON (MEDIEVAL VILLAGE) SAILLON Martigny

25 Sion, city of good taste Sion Region Central Valais Jardin des Vins The city of Sion supports the Balade des Divins Pub Sion terroir urbain promotion of good taste, gastronomy and its regional Old town market Sion Fête du Goût products. It has therefore assigne dits Economic Promotion Departement and the Tourist Office of Sion the task of encouraging and developing the various initiatives promoting these aspects. Sion, the capital of Valais, embodies the urban aspects of the canton. You re sure to be enchanted by its castles and monuments, its modernized historic centre and its local produce. Croustilles of Sion 52 Sion Tourism Office Place de la Planta 2, 1950 Sion +41 (0)

26 Sion Guided tours are available 1 The Castles Valère and Tourbillon Signature landmarks of Sion, two majestic castles dominate the Valais capital from their hillside location: Tourbillon (14 th century, open in summer) and Valère (11 th to 13 th centuries, open all year) which is also the setting for the Valais history museum. +41 (0) The «Meeting Zone» In the town centre, the shopping area boasts 700 outlets and restaurants, featuring a paved «meeting zone» dedicated to pedestrians, with plenty of terraces where you can sit and relax. Rte de Savièse Rte du Sanetsch Rue de Gravelone Av. du Petit-Chasseur Ch. des Collines Rue de Lausanne Av. de Pratifori Av. Ritz Anzère Rue du Rawyl Espace des Remparts Rue du Grand-Pont Rue de Loèche Rue des Châteaux Place du Midi Rue du Scex Av. de Tourbillon Sion 6 Weekly Market Guided tours are available The «Sion terroir urbain» (or «Sion Town and Country») initiative links the ancient town of Sion with the wines and gastronomy of the region. The weekly market on Fridays showcases these different aspects to best advantage. 7 Birds of prey demonstration On the site of Valère and Tourbillon, come and meet Sédun the peregrine falcon and Kanghaï the golden eagle every Wednesday and Saturday, all year round. Reservation required at the Tourist Office. Av. de la Gare 3 Valère History Museum Heading the list of Valais three cantonal museums, the recently refurbished Valère History Museum chronicles the history of Valais from the Neolithic age to the present day. +41 (0) Av. de France Rue de la Dixence Rue de l Industrie La Sionne 3 8 Sound and Light show Unique in Switzerland: on four evenings a week throughout the summer, you can enjoy a spectacular sound and light show free of charge featuring the magnificent Valère and Tourbillon Castles. Rue Traversière 4 The «bisses» of Sion Thanks to the bisses (little irrigation canals) and the walking paths that run alongside them, discover the spectacular terraced vineyards and wine-tasting spots. 5 The «P tit sédunois» Train From May to September you can take a very reasonably priced miniature train the «P tit sédunois» through the narrow streets of the historic centre. 54 Martigny 9 Rue Oscar-Bider Rue de la Blancherie Ch. St-Hubert Rte de la Piscine Rte de la Drague Rue des Champs-de-Tabac Rte des Ronquoz RHÔNE Rte de Riddes Sierre SION 9 Les Îles Public Park Les Îles Park, with its lakes, greenery, picnic area and sports centre (Parc Aventure) is a superb place to relax, very popular with the locals Discovery Walk Take the «Discovery Walk» with 14 stops that showcase the treasures of Switzerland s oldest town. Time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Distance: 2.3 km. Accessible all year. 57

27 Sierre Region Central Valais Luxury Living Organise your private and professional events in the sumptuous and tranquil setting of the Château Mercier castle in Sierre. Aperitifs Civil marriage ceremonies and/or wedding receptions Cocktail dinners family celebrations Seminars Accommodation in the castle with bookings of 10 rooms per night or more (23 rooms/44 people) Meals from 15 to 80 people prepared by the castle s own chef The exception to everyday life hâteau Mercier PO box sierre / suisse - t f administration : t f [email protected] The Sierre region is sure to stir your emotions. Natural beauty, outstanding produce and pure pleasure the ideal place to relax and enjoy. Sierre, Salgesch and Surroundings Tourism Office Place de la Gare 10, 3960 Sierre [email protected] +41 (0)

28 Sierre 60 Guided tours are available 1 Sierre-Montana-Crans funicular Apart from the advantage of linking Sierre to Crans-Montana in just 12 minutes, the SMC funicular offers panoramic views over the whole of Valais. The journey becomes a unique experience. +41 (0) Valais Wine and Vine Museum Split between two sites (Sierre and Salgesch) that are linked by a path through the vineyards, this museum traces the development of wine-growing in Valais. a Rue Sainte-Catherine 4, Sierre +41 (0) b Museumstr., Salgesch +41 (0) Villa Castle Dating back to the 16 th century, this castle hosts a restaurant specializing in local dishes and a wine cellar that offers some of the best Valais vintages. Rue Sainte-Catherine 4, Sierre +41 (0) Vineyard Path This path linking Sierre and Salgesch follows a panoramic route through the vineyards (open all year), with a chance to learn all about the varied landscapes and the history of wine-growing. 5 Mercier Castle Completed in 1908, this castle is named after a famous family of tanners from Lausanne. Its gardens (covering 3,5 ha) are open to the public all year a real haven of peace in the middle of town. Montée du Château, Sierre +41 (0) a 4 3 Rte de Sion SALGESCH Sierre Rue St-Georges Rte des Longs-Prés Av. de France Sion St-Léonard 4 Av. du Marché Rue de Lamberson 2b Unterdorfstr. 5 Rue d Orzival 7 Larschästr. Av. des Alpes 1 Rue de l Industrie 10 Varenstr. Bahnhofstr. Rte du Rawyl Av. du Rothorn Av. Général-Guisan Rue de l Ancien Sierre 9a Rue de la Monderèche Brig Av. des Ecoles Rue du Bourg Rte de la Plaine Rte de Sous-Géronde 6 Rte des L acs Crans-Montana Petit Lac Chippis 9b 8 Salgesch Brig Anniviers Rte du Simplon Lac de Géronde SIERRE Rte des Falaises Sierre 6 Courten Cellars & Rainer Maria Rilke Museum This house contains the Courten Cellars (used for exhibitions and theatre productions), as well as the Rilke Museum honouring the poet who lived at Veyras. Rue du Bourg 30, Sierre +41 (0) Nature Centre and Pfyn-Finges Countryside This Centre is an extension of the Pfyn- Finges Nature Park. Visitors can see an annual exhibition on a specific subject and buy produce from the park, as well as obtain all the information they need for their trips. Kirchstr. 4, Salgesch +41 (0) The magic of plants Official supplier for the famous «Ricola» sweets, the Masserey family from Venthône farm 50,000 m 2 of land, cultivating some 35 species of different plants. Darnona, 3973 Venthône +41 (0) Handmade chocolate The emblem par excellence of Switzerland, discover and taste chocolate with our two chocolate makers who are sure to stir your senses. a La Chocolaterie, Rue Centrale 2, Sierre b Chocorama, Rue du Simplon 27, Sierre 10 «Les Halles» An unusual venue for cultural events and stage productions, open to everyone, «Les Halles» offers theatrical and musical performances, dance shows as well as plastic and pictorial art exhibits. Rte Ancien-Sierre 13, Sierre +41 (0) Guided tours are available

29 cultural center Leuk Region Upper Valais a) b) c) a) Guided Tours in Leuk: Explore the historic town of Leuk: the charnel house, its castles and narrow alleys. Every Tuesday, 14:30 h (July-Oct.) b) Rye bred: In the midst of the idyllically situated village of Erschmatt you re-experience the way of the grain to the rye bred. c) World of fairytale: Fairy tale cots, elves and pirates: there are no constraints to the fantasies of children in the different workshops. With castles and century-old vineyards close by, Leuk is situated in a perfect location, right in the heart of the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park. Leuk Tourism Office Bahnhof 5, 3952 Susten [email protected] +41 (0)

30 Leuk Guided tours are available Varen TURTMANN 1 Bhutanese Bridge With a span of over 134 m above the turbulent Illgraben stream, the Bhutanese bridge linking Upper and Lower Valais is also a symbol of the cultural ties between this region and the Himalayan nation. Schulhausstr. 2 Badnerstr. 3 LEUK-STADT Kantonsstr. 5 Badnerstr. 2 Leuk Castle This castle, restored by architect Mario Botta, will take you back in time to the 13 th century, while the medieval village of Leuk moves you forward to the middle of the 15 th century. +41 (0) Sierre Kantonsstr. RHÔNE r. Leukerstr. ers 4 Leukerbad Visp 3 Ossuary in the Church of Saint-Stéphane The ossuary contains over 20,000 skulls buried in a 22 m-long wall. Sierre Illgraben SUSTEN Turtmann 5 4 Ringacker Chapel One of the finest baroque buildings in Valais, on the site of a former cemetery for plague victims. Over 200 angels and some magnificent stucco work adorn the interior, which also has an historic organ decorated with paintings. Pfyn-Finges Waldstr. Sportplatzstr. Pletschenstr. 5 Turtmann With its stone buildings dating from the 17 th century, Turtmann is an outstanding historical village. +41 (0) LEUK 66 1

31 Visp farmers market Ortsmarketing +41 (0) Every Friday h (winter) / h (summer) Kaufplatz Visp Region Upper Valais Old town of Visp Tourist Info +41 (0) Guided tours on request with wine tasting/organ concert Visp is an excellent base for shopping and excursions. Enjoy strolling along the traffic-free Avenue de la Gare, relax on terraces adorned with flowers, discover the perfectly preserved old town and take advantage of the town s cultural activities and sports facilities. Visp Tourism Office Balfrinstrasse 3, 3930 Visp [email protected] +41 (0)

32 Visp Guided tours are available 1 Culture and Congress Centre La Poste As well as productions by local groups, this centre stages performances of operas, concerts and theatrical works from all over the world. La Poste Platz 4, Visp +41 (0) RARON Bahnhofstr. 5 RHÔNE 2 Farmers market An enticing place to discover local produce from 4 pm to 7 pm in winter and until 8 pm in summer. Kleggärtenstr. Kaufplatz, Visp 3 The historic centre A superb old town with a typically Italian atmosphere. Raron Leuk Rottenstr. Lonzastr. Brig 4 La Poste Visp art exhibition Twice a year, the Haut-Valais cultural association organises an exhibition presenting local or nationally acclaimed artists. Admission is free. La Poste Platz 4, Visp +41 (0) Bahnofstr. 2 3 Balfrinstr. Kantonsstr. 1 4 Terbinerst. 5 Raron, Rilke s Village A village with a knightly past and the grave of the poet Rainer Maria Rilke. Take time to discover the old village of Niedergesteln too. Bahnhofstrasse, Raron +41 (0) Vispa Zermatt / Saas-Fee VISP

33 Brig Region Upper Valais Brigerbad the largest thermal outdoor pool in the Alps Between Brig and Visp you'll find the largest outdoor thermal pool in Switzerland (25-37 C), with Europe s first indoor grotto pool (42 C), the longest Alpine thermal (182m), a fantastic stream bath and an Olympic pool with four 50 metre - long swimming lanes. [email protected] At the very heart of the Alps, Brig is the starting point for a wide variety of excursions. The squares and gardens of this very lively town have a Mediterranean feel. Brig-Belalp Tourism Office Bahnhofplatz 1, 3900 Brig [email protected] +41 (0)

34 Brig Guided tours are available 1 Stockalper Palace This Baroque building dating from the 17 th century bears witness to the wealth of Kaspar von Stockalper, known as the «King of the Simplon», who made his fortune by exporting salt. 2 Swiss Guard Museum & Fortress For the last 500 years, the commune of Naters has provided most of the Swiss Guards at the Vatican. Located in the old military fortress, the museum narrates this long and continuous history. 3 Little Simplon Express The Little Simplon Express travels through Simplon and Naters, along an interesting route with plenty of unusual attractions. 4 Panoramic path A link between the Swiss Guard Museum in Naters, the 700m long panoramic path offers magnificent views over the Brig, Naters and Brigerberg region. Mund Birgisch 7 Brigerbad Visp/Sion Umfahrungsstr. Brig-Naters Jesuitenweg Eiholz Mundgasse 6 2 Kehrstr. Überlandstr. Glismattenstr. Bahnhofstr. Furkastr. Gliserallee Belalpstr. 5 8 Naters 4 5 Furkastr. Umfahrungsstr. Brig-Naters Kapuzinerstr. Bahnhofstr. Kelchbach Nordstr. RHÔNE Rhonesandstr. Neue Simplonstr. Rhonepromenade Alte Simplonstr. Saltina Goms Bielastr. Brig Guided tours are available 6 Cheese making Directly next to the shop, this Rhône cheesemaker offers a chance to watch live dairy production. Gliserallee 166, 3902 Glis +41 (0) Brigerbad Baths The Brigerbad Baths feature Switzerland s largest open-air thermal swimming pool, as well as a 182 m water slide. +41 (0) Naters Village Fascinating attractions and legends about the magic mountain abound in the centre of Naters Village. 9 Glis and Gamsen A historical place of pilgrimage, Glis is renowned for its church, which combines a variety of styles (Romanesque, Renaissance and Gothic), while Gamsen features famous defensive walls constructed in the 14 th century. 5 Shopping at Brig, Glis and Naters Naters and Brig, two lively Alpine towns, stand at the gateway to the site protected by UNESCO. They combine atmosphere, charm and the joys of shopping. 9 Gamsen 5 9 Glis Napoleonstr. Nationalstr. Rosswald Rothwald Ried-Brig Termen BRIG 10 Farmers Market Brig holds its Farmers Market every Saturday morning. Shoppers can buy vegetables, fruit, charcuterie and dairy produce, all organic produce from the surrounding area

35 Events where you re sure to feel welcome From cowfighting to sports events and wine-tasting, the Rhone plain offers a vast range of events throughout the year. All Tourist Offices can provide detailed calendars, and you can find information for the entire canton at

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37 Avoid high roaming costs with your mobile operator back home. CONVIVIAL Get a local SIM card and call home from only CHF0.01 a minute Unlimited mobile internet for only CHF 14.90/ month Available at your tourist office Gastronomic Journey Go for a day out or a weekend to discover the local Valais products. Raclette, air-dried beef, rye bread and Valais wines await you in the unique surroundings of the Chateau de Villa in Sierre. Find out all the mouth-watering details of this offer on our website. Lebara Classic Promotion is available for new customers from until or until further notice. By sending a SMS with keyword 1Promo to 255, changing to the new prices is free of charge for registration before The call set-up fee for calls to fixed-line networks which have a minute price of 0.01 CHF/min. is 0.25 CHF/call. The call set-up fee for all other calls is 0.19 CHF/call. Tariffs are subject to change. Current tariffs at Calls are charged per minute. The option can be canceled any time. You surf up to 1 GB with full speed, then the speed will be reduced. lebara.ch Info & Booking sierre-annivier.ch/gastronomy

38 IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII ecreation b train. The ideas in this brochure all accessible b train and more can be seen on our website. boomerang-marketing.ch / eddy pelfini.ch