Travel Wallis Valais in the Alps Guide

Wallis, or Valais, is in the heart of the Alps, in southwest Switzerland. It features a diverse landscape and culture. Water sports, hiking, golfing and skiing are popular outdoor activities.

Art and folklore are at the heart of Valais, and numerous museums offer visitors the chance to experience the best of what the area has to offer. Among the most famous is the Gianadda Fountain, which includes a sculpture garden, an auto museum and a Gallo-Roman museum. It’s exhibits include works by Picasso, Gauguin and Klee. Museums featuring the area’s natural history, wine, archaeology, architecture and fine art also abound.

A number of festivals are held throughout the year, many focusing on music. International festivals attract top musicians from around the world, and give visitors plenty of music styles to choose from. The International Alp Horn festival celebrates this traditional instrument through performances and competitions.   

Valais is known for its many sunny days and the outdoor enthusiast will be happy to find everything from hiking and skiing to glacier climbing and river rafting.

Numerous trails and hiking trips are available throughout spring, summer and fall. They will take you from thickly wooded forests to soaring mountaintops and everywhere in between. Choose to spend an afternoon hiking an easy trail, or several weeks backpacking.

Of course, along with great hiking, there’s also great biking. There are plenty of paths to take you deep into the stunning wilderness of Valais. Many places have bike rentals and some even offer guided tours.

Like all areas in Switzerland, Valais offers unsurpassed skiing and winter sport opportunities. There are numerous resorts and runs to choose from, whether you are just learning or are a seasoned skier, Valais offers the perfect accommodations.