Get to know the Val d'Anniviers this week, a real hidden gem in the southern Valais. Nestled alongside the Mattertal, this narrow valley boasts a truly iconic alpine scenery of many well-known four-thousand-metre summits. Besides imposing mountains and glaciers, there is a myriad of authentic mountain villages to discover featuring picturesque chapels, mills and sun-baked log cottages. Zermatt certainly looked like this, prior to the arrival of the streams of tourists.

Picturesque Grimentz




Grimentz is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque villages in Switzerland. With its narrow, car-free main street bordered by lovely ancient wooden houses, the town is perfect for a walk. Red geraniums bloom through the streets, while cosy restaurants and cafés beckon you to linger. The town hall dates back to 1550 and a whitish glacier wine matures in old larch barrels in its cellar, a speciality produced by the former nomadic farmers.




Take a short hike from Grimentz to reach the turquoise reservoir Lac de Moiry and its abundant flora and fauna. The small glacier lake, Lac de Châteaupré, lies right behind it, opening up a magnificent panorama of the Moiry glacier.

Zinal, a hidden gem



At the very end of the valley, surrounded by a stunning crown of peaks consisting of several 4000-metre summits, stands Zinal. A wide range of high-altitude activities can be enjoyed here: mountaineers set off from Zinal to climb the Weisshorn, which at 4,506 metres is the fourth highest peak in Europe. Yet Zinal is also an ideal starting point for rather less adventurous hikers, pensioners and families. A mostly flat trail leads from the charming village into the valley and after a short climb, past fragrant larch forests, reaches the foot of the Zinal Glacier.




A tip for Zinal: The circuit to Lac d'Arpitettaz at 2'229m is a perfect day trip. The hike to the mountain lake takes about 2 hours and comes with a truly spectacular mountain panorama. Encounters with free-ranging llamas are included.

Hotel Europe *** in Zinal

The lovely Hotel Europe makes an ideal base for excursions in Zinal. Suitable for families, couples or groups of friends, it features great relaxation facilities after a day of hiking: a renovated wellness area (access included in the room rate) with Jacuzzi, sauna and hammam will ensure you get a relaxing end to the day.




Book now Hotel Alpina *** in Grimentz

The Hotel Alpina enjoys a central location in Grimentz, right in front of the Grimentz-Zinal cable car station. Mountain bikers take note: Under the Swiss Bike Hotel seal of approval, the Alpina offers bike and mountain bike rental as well as the necessary accessories. You can complete the Planet Trail in a loop on the Bike Planet Tour and enjoy the great views of the Val d'Anniviers.


Book now Both partner hotels feature cosy double rooms as well as family rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people. Family rooms are available from 105 Swiss francs.

I hope you enjoy discovering the Val d'Anniviers. Our partner hotels look forward to welcoming you!