To the source of modern alpine tourism in the Valais
The Val d’Hérens started its tourist career at the end of the 19th century, but also kept up its traditions into the 21st century.
Arolla is at the end of the Val d’Hérens south of Sion on the famous Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. We do it the easy way and take a leisurely hike down to Evolène. The Val d’Hérens is an unspoilt mountain valley where the people are proud of their traditions. The most famous inhabitants are probably the unique breed of fighting cows, where at the beginning of summer the “queen” is chosen in the cow-fights.
In the beginning the path follows the river bed before going down to the village of Les Haudères with its sun-baked houses. After a short stroll through the village we continue to Evolène where we will eat the traditional polenta (cornmeal).
Starting point: Arolla 
End point: Evolène
250 m
900 m
approx. 3.5 hours
Difficulty level
click to enlarge
Price: CHF 70
