Valais Travel Guide: The Ultimate Road Trip Through Switzerland's Most Beautiful Canton

Towering mountains, world-famous ski resorts, charming Alpine villages, vineyards stretching across sunny hillsides and some of Switzerland's most spectacular scenery—welcome to Valais.

Located in southwestern Switzerland, Valais is one of the country's most diverse regions. Home to over 40 peaks exceeding 4,000 metres, it offers unforgettable experiences throughout the year, from skiing beneath the Matterhorn to hiking through peaceful valleys, relaxing in thermal spas and tasting award-winning local wines.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a week-long holiday, Valais is best explored one destination at a time. This guide takes you on a memorable journey through some of the region's highlights.

Stop 1: Sierre – The City of Sunshine

Begin your journey in Sierre, often called the "City of Sunshine" thanks to its warm, dry climate.

Surrounded by vineyards, Sierre is one of Switzerland's wine capitals and a wonderful place to slow down.

Highlights include:

• Wine tasting at local wineries

• Strolling through the old town

• Visiting local markets

• Walking sections of the famous vineyard trails

• Enjoying cafés overlooking the Rhône Valley

It's the perfect introduction to the flavours and culture of Valais.

Stop 2: Crans-Montana

Just 20 minutes above Sierre lies Crans-Montana, one of Switzerland's premier mountain resorts.

Known for its sunshine, luxury hotels and world-class golf, Crans-Montana combines outdoor adventure with refined Alpine living.

Things to do:

• Ride the gondolas for panoramic views

• Play the famous Severiano Ballesteros Golf Course

• Explore luxury boutiques

• Enjoy lakeside walks

• Dine at gourmet restaurants

• Ski in winter or hike in summer

Stay at Cove Crans-Montana for an elegant base in the heart of the resort.

Stop 3: Vercorin – A Hidden Alpine Gem

A short drive from Crans-Montana brings you to the peaceful mountain village of Vercorin.

Unlike Switzerland's larger resorts, Vercorin offers an authentic Alpine atmosphere where nature takes centre stage.

Don't miss:

• Hiking through the Vallon de Réchy Nature Reserve

• Family-friendly skiing in winter

• Traditional wooden chalets

• Scenic forest walks

• Stunning viewpoints over the Rhône Valley

If you're looking for tranquillity, Vercorin is one of Valais' best-kept secrets.

Stay at Cove des Alpes to experience mountain life in comfort and style.

Stop 4: St-Luc & Chandolin

Continue into the Val d'Anniviers, where the villages of St-Luc and Chandolin enjoy some of the sunniest weather in Switzerland.

Known for their breathtaking scenery and relaxed atmosphere, these villages are perfect for:

• Hiking

• Scenic chairlift rides

• Family skiing

• Mountain photography

• Stargazing at the François-Xavier Bagnoud Observatory

This area rewards visitors who enjoy slower-paced mountain adventures.

Stop 5: Grimentz

Frequently listed among Switzerland's most beautiful villages, Grimentz feels like stepping back in time.

Historic timber chalets, flower-filled balconies and cobbled streets create a picture-perfect Alpine setting.

Visitors love:

• Traditional architecture

• Hiking trails

• Skiing

• Local cheese and wine

• Artisan shops

• Peaceful village atmosphere

It's one of the true highlights of Valais.

Stop 6: Leukerbad

After exploring the mountains, unwind in the natural thermal waters of Leukerbad.

Nestled beneath dramatic cliffs, Leukerbad is Switzerland's largest thermal spa resort and has welcomed visitors for centuries.

Spend the day enjoying:

• Outdoor thermal pools

• Wellness treatments

• Mountain views

• Scenic hiking

• Traditional Swiss cuisine

It's the perfect place to recharge.

Stop 7: Zermatt & the Matterhorn

No journey through Valais is complete without visiting Zermatt.

This car-free village sits beneath the iconic Matterhorn and is one of the world's most celebrated mountain destinations.

Highlights include:

• The Matterhorn

• Gornergrat Railway

• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

• Luxury shopping

• Gourmet dining

• Scenic hiking

• World-class skiing

Allow a full day—or ideally two—to experience everything Zermatt has to offer.

Stay at Cove Zermatt for easy access to one of the world's greatest mountain destinations.

Taste the Flavours of Valais

Valais is famous for its local produce.

Be sure to try:

• Raclette cheese

• Air-dried Valais ham

• Rye bread

• Apricots from the Rhône Valley

• Local white wines

• Swiss chocolate

Many mountain restaurants proudly showcase regional ingredients.

Scenic Drives You'll Never Forget

Part of the joy of exploring Valais is the journey itself.

Mountain roads wind through forests, vineyards and dramatic valleys, revealing breathtaking viewpoints around almost every corner.

Keep your camera ready—you'll find no shortage of unforgettable landscapes.

Where to Stay in Valais

Valais offers accommodation for every style of traveller, but choosing a centrally located base makes exploring much easier.

For luxury mountain stays, we recommend:

• Cove Crans-Montana – Perfect for golf, shopping, skiing and easy access to central Valais.

• Cove des Alpes (Vercorin) – Ideal for hikers, families and travellers seeking authentic Alpine tranquillity.

• Cove Zermatt – The ultimate base for experiencing the Matterhorn and one of the world's most iconic mountain resorts.

Together, these properties allow you to experience the very best of the Swiss Alps.

Discover the Heart of the Swiss Alps

Valais is a region of contrasts. One day you can be skiing beneath the Matterhorn, the next soaking in thermal waters, tasting wine among sun-drenched vineyards or hiking through peaceful Alpine valleys.

Whether you're drawn by adventure, relaxation, family holidays or luxury mountain living, you'll find it here.

At Cove Luxury Villas, we invite you to discover Valais through our curated homes and destination guides—helping you experience one of Switzerland's most beautiful regions, one unforgettable stop at a time.