Best Hikes in Vercorin: Explore the Hidden Beauty of the Swiss Alps

Vercorin is one of Switzerland's best-kept hiking secrets. Perched on a sunny plateau above the Rhône Valley in the Canton of Valais, this charming Alpine village is surrounded by forests, mountain pastures, crystal-clear streams and breathtaking panoramic views.

Unlike some of Switzerland's busier hiking destinations, Vercorin offers peaceful trails where you can immerse yourself in nature without the crowds. Whether you're looking for a gentle family walk, a scenic half-day adventure or a challenging mountain hike, you'll find unforgettable landscapes in every direction.

At Cove des Alpes, we believe hiking is the best way to discover the true beauty of Vercorin. Here are some of our favourite trails.

Why Hike in Vercorin?

Vercorin is perfectly positioned between the Rhône Valley and the spectacular mountains of Valais.

Visitors enjoy:

• Over 200 km of marked hiking trails

• Spectacular panoramic viewpoints

• Ancient forests

• Alpine meadows filled with wildflowers

• Crystal-clear mountain streams

• Nature reserves

• Traditional Swiss mountain villages

• Peaceful trails away from the crowds

Many routes begin directly from the village, while the gondola provides easy access to higher-altitude trails.

1. The Vallon de Réchy

The Signature Hike

If you only complete one hike during your stay, make it the Vallon de Réchy.

Often described as one of the last untouched Alpine valleys in Switzerland, this remarkable nature reserve has no roads, very few buildings and an extraordinary diversity of wildlife and alpine plants.

The trail begins from Crêt-du-Midi, reached by gondola from Vercorin, before descending through meadows, wetlands and mountain streams.

Along the way you'll discover:

• Wild alpine flowers

• Crystal-clear rivers

• Peaceful wetlands

• Spectacular mountain scenery

• Marmots and other wildlife

This is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Valais region and a favourite among nature lovers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: Around 4–5 hours

2. Bisse de Vercorin

Best Scenic Walk

One of the region's most historic walks follows the Bisse de Vercorin, an irrigation channel first built in the 14th century.

The gently flowing water once supplied farms and orchards throughout the valley. Today, the trail offers an easy and relaxing walk through forests with beautiful viewpoints over the Rhône Valley.

The route also passes the charming Buvette de La Lé, a perfect place to stop for lunch or refreshments before continuing your walk.

This is an excellent option for families and anyone looking for a less demanding hike.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Time: 3–5 hours depending on the route

3. Crêt-du-Midi to Vallon de Réchy

Best Panoramic Walk

Ride the gondola to Crêt-du-Midi before setting off across one of the most scenic high plateaus in Valais.

The trail passes alpine meadows, wetlands and magnificent viewpoints overlooking both the Rhône Valley and the surrounding 4,000-metre peaks.

During summer the meadows are filled with colourful wildflowers, while autumn offers brilliant golden landscapes.

Photographers will love this route.

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: Around 5 hours

4. Bisse des Sarrasins

Best Historic Trail

History and hiking combine on this fascinating walk.

The Bisse des Sarrasins follows an ancient irrigation channel carved into the mountainside centuries ago.

The trail passes forests, rocky cliffs and panoramic viewpoints before reaching the picturesque village of Pinsec.

Some sections are narrow and more exposed, making this route better suited to confident hikers.

The views, however, are outstanding.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Time: Approximately 6 hours

5. Village & Forest Walks

Perfect for Families

Not every hike needs to be an all-day adventure.

Around Vercorin you'll find numerous shorter trails through peaceful forests and traditional Alpine countryside.

These walks are ideal for:

• Families

• Children

• Casual walkers

• Evening strolls

• Wildlife spotting

They also provide beautiful opportunities to admire traditional Swiss chalets and flower-filled balconies.

Wildlife You May See

The mountains surrounding Vercorin are home to an incredible variety of wildlife.

If you're lucky, you may encounter:

• Marmots

• Ibex

• Chamois

• Golden eagles

• Alpine butterflies

• Rare mountain flowers

Early morning is usually the best time for wildlife watching.

Please remember to observe animals from a respectful distance and stay on marked trails.

Best Time for Hiking

June

Wildflowers begin to bloom.

July

Warm days and clear mountain views.

August

Ideal hiking conditions with long daylight hours.

September

Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

October

Magnificent autumn colours across the forests surrounding Vercorin.

Every season offers a different perspective on the landscape.

What Should You Bring?

Mountain weather can change quickly.

We recommend:

• Comfortable hiking boots

• Waterproof jacket

• Sunscreen

• Hat

• Water bottle

• Camera

• Light snacks

• Walking poles for longer hikes

Even on warm summer days, temperatures can be considerably cooler at higher elevations.

Tips for Hiking in Vercorin

• Start early for the best weather and quieter trails.

• Check gondola operating times if your hike begins at Crêt-du-Midi.

• Carry enough water and snacks for longer routes.

• Stay on marked hiking paths.

• Respect wildlife and protected natural areas.

• Take time to stop at mountain cafés and enjoy local Valais specialities.

Relax After Your Hike at Cove des Alpes

After a day exploring the spectacular mountains surrounding Vercorin, there's nothing better than returning to the comfort of Cove des Alpes.

Our luxury chalet provides the perfect place to relax, enjoy the mountain views and plan your next adventure.

Whether you've completed a gentle forest walk or a full-day alpine hike, you'll appreciate spacious accommodation, elegant surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere that makes Vercorin so special.

Discover the Swiss Alps on Foot

The best way to experience Vercorin is one step at a time.

Every trail reveals something different—an ancient irrigation channel, a hidden valley, colourful alpine flowers or sweeping views across the Rhône Valley.

Unlike many of Switzerland's busier resorts, Vercorin rewards visitors with tranquillity, authenticity and an opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Stay at Cove des Alpes and discover why hiking in Vercorin is one of the Swiss Alps' most rewarding experiences.