La Tzoumaz by picto+

2014

extremenature

latzoumaz.ch

Suisse

Nyon

WELCOME TO LA TZOUMAZ

WINTER WINTER SKI MAP SKI/SNOWBOARD WINTER ACTIVITIES

Tunnel de base du Lötschberg

Lötschenpass

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Val de Ba gn

’Entremont Val d

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Annecy Col, Hospice et Tunnel du Gd-St-Bernard

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CH FR P ES

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SUMMER SUMMER MAP BIKING HIKING SUMMER ACTIVITIES CALENDAR FAMILIES CURIOSITIES AND CULTURE GASTRONOMY EXCURSIONS

LA TZOUMAZ TOURIST OFFICE LA TZOUMAZ

Brochures & maps

Case postale 99 1918 La Tzoumaz T. +41(O)27 305 16 00 F. +41(O)27 305 16 01 info@latzoumaz.ch

Winter walks & summer hiking, accommodation, walking or mountain-bike maps: our brochures are available from the [V\YPZ[ VMÄJLZ VM [OL YLNPVU @V\ JHU HSZV JVUZ\S[ HSS [OL NLV ferenced itineraries on our website:

www.latzoumaz.ch

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WELCOME TO LA TZOUMAZ

LEARNING TO SKI

10KM SLED RUN

A NATURALLY GREAT DESTINATION La Tzoumaz welcomes you summer and winter alike for sports and J\S[\YL ÄSSLK Alpine holidays complemented by snow, lush paths, Raclette and all the many advantages of the mountains!

ALPHORN ENSEMBLE

The resort overlooks the Rhône Valley from the slopes of a sunny valley on Verbier’s northern slope. Its warm welcome makes it an ideal location for families. The longest ski run in Western Switzerland (10km) is guaranteed to delight thrill seekers. The ski area, which is part of the 4 Vallées, is ideal for all levels of athletic prowess. In summer, don’t miss the “bisses” (ancient water courses), the Sentier des Sens and the Maison de la Forêt which provide a fun, original opportunity to become acquainted with the Alpine environment.

Situated between vineyards and orchards, Riddes lies on the left bank of the Rhône. The village is the starting point of the route de la Tzoumaz, perched high above this commune. Another of the region’s attractions is its famous gastronomy, complemented by a number of ÅH]V\YZ MYVT V[OLY JSPTLZ

WELCOME TO LA TZOUMAZ

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WELCOME TO LA TZOUMAZ

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WINTER

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SNOW GARANTEED

FREERIDING

WINTER SKI MAP

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SWITZERLAND’S LARGEST SKI AREA

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SKI & SNOWBOARD

PANORAMA

THE POWDER SIDE OF THE ALPS

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DOWNHILL SKIING

MONT-FORT 3,330M

FREERIDE*

HELISKIING*

THE SNOWPARK

AFTER SKI AT LA TZOUMAZ

The “4 Vallées” ski area combines more than 410km of ski runs and 92 ski lifts linking the resorts of Verbier, La Tzoumaz and Bruson, as well as Nendaz, Veysonnaz and Thyon. Runs for all levels criss-cross the amazing surroundings in this winter sports’ paradise with its modern infrastructure and guaranteed snow.

A panoramic view awaits you from the top of the Mont-Fort (3,300 m), the highest point in the ski area, encompassing the Mont-Blanc, Matterhorn and Grand Combins ranges. Admire the countryside and get yourself psyched up for the resort’s famous black ski run. The moguls are all yours – accompanied by guaranteed thrills and snow.

A freeride paradise, the resort is a must for skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. Give backcountry skiing a shot accompanied by a mountain guide. Take on the Vallon d’Arby or the “Backside Mont-Fort” MVY H WV^KLY ÄSSLK KH`

>OV OHZ UL]LY MLS[ [OL \YNL [V Å` down swathes of pristine mountains? Whether you are a skier or snowboarder, decide on your itinerary with the help of a guide, climb aboard a helicopter and enjoy the immaculate snow. A breath-taking experience!

Located at La Chaux, the Snowpark offers a multitude of varied modules, notably including kickers, rails, boxes and a big airbag. It has something for all levels, and is secured and groomed every day to enjoy maximum pleasure for grownups and children alike! Easy to access using the Combimix La Chaux Express – so take advantage of the opportunity to admire the talent of the skiers and snowboarders before taking your turn at a few perilous acrobatics.

Après-ski and aperitifs on terraces are a veritable institution. Rub shoulders with a cosmopolitan, epicurean clientele of every generation. After an energetic day on the runs, taste Alpine delicacies and local produce before enjoying the fun atmosphere of the resort’s bars and pubs.

* It is highly advisable for you to be accompanied by a mountain guide for all [OLZL HJ[P]P[PLZ

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WINTER ACTIVITIES :3,+.05. 05 3( ;A6<4(A

SWIMMING POOL

SKIING FOR SURE AND SO MUCH MORE!

SKI DE RANDONNÉE

WINTER TREK

SLEDGING

SNOWSHOES

ICE RINK

BACK-COUNTRY SKIING*

WINTER ADVENTURES

Beginners or snow-bunnies – discover the longest sledging run in western Switzerland. Ten km long with a dizzying 848 metre drop, the run at the beginning of Savoleyres guarantees thrills and roars of laughter right up to La Tzoumaz! When night falls, enjoy moonlit sledging evenings which promise unforgettable memories.

The 3 groomed trails in La Tzoumaz lead to a voyage of discovery of a region buried under the snow. Immerse yourself in nature, savour the ZPSLUJL VM \UL_WSVYLK ZUV^ ÄLSKZ HUK enjoy the sheer magic of the scenery. La Tzoumaz has 3 snowshoe trails stretching over 13.5 km, for relaxed strolls or more energetic outings.

Come and practice your moves on the new ice skating rink free of charge at the Central Square. Music and lights guarantee a good atmosphere from morning to night. Rental skates are available beside the rink.

In search of pristine snow? Get your back-country skis on and go as far as your feet will take your thirst for adventure. And if the ascent requires a certain taste for effort, the summit will provide incomparable emotions and a spectacular panorama.

Get a shot of emotion and discover the region in a different manner through weekly activities organised by the resort: cellar tours and wine tastings, nocturnal snowshoe excursions, torchlight descents, movie evenings, live concerts, etc. Ski/Snowboard | Groomed snowshoe trails 0UKVVY WVVS c :RH[PUN YPUR c >PUL [HZ[PUN

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SUMMER

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MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE FOREST

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SUMMER MAP

AT THE HEART OF NATURE

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BIKING

A FEW CROSS-COUTRY SUGGESTIONS LE TOUR DU MONT-FORT =,9)0,9 3( ;A6<4(A / Âś 24 Take your pick between the pro and the easy route and set off to discover this THNUPĂ&#x201E;JLU[ TV\U[HPU IPRL [V\Y ,UQV` the breath-taking view over the MontBlanc and the Combins range and hit the big downhill on the Col des Gentianes. www.tdmf.ch PARCOURS DES FAMILLES =,9)0,9 3( ;A6<4(A / Âś 24 Children, parents and mountain bike fans alike will love this easy route. The lifts will make for an easy ascent and offer a breath-taking view.

revel in

YOUR FILL OF OXYGEN! Fans of two-wheelers! Want to pump your oxygen levels through your calves? Make your tyres squeal on our mountain bike routes! 135 km of mountain bike trails and 4 suggestions for cross-country routes await you in La Tzoumaz. ,UQV` [OL ILULĂ&#x201E;[ VM [OL ZRP SPM[Z [V go up the mountain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bike transport is free!

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BIKEPARK

ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN BIKE

AND IN ADDITION â&#x20AC;Ś

For performance and thrills, the Verbier-La Tzoumaz Bikepark is the ideal place to give free rein to your passion! Experts and beginners alike can pit their skills in this challenging arena. Five trails for all levels of KPMĂ&#x201E;J\S[` ^PSS SLHK `V\ [V KPZJV]LY the delights of downhill biking amid exceptional scenery, with a gradient of up to 700. The less experienced will ILULĂ&#x201E;[ MYVT [PWZ MYVT [OL TV\U[HPU bike school to perfect their riding and YLĂ&#x201E;UL [OLPY Z[`SL HUK [LJOUPX\L

Fresh air, stunning panoramas, fun and recharging batteries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; explore the mountain with just a few pushes of a pedal! Hire an electric mountain bike and get to the peaks effortlessly with the whole family or with your mates and enjoy every instant. The e-bike THW ^PSS N\PKL `V\ [OYV\NO Ă&#x201E;]L YV\[LZ with a number of great pit-stops. And when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re comfortably settled on a sunny terrace, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll already be thinking about your next excursion.

Grab your two-wheelers for a unique way of getting to know the region! Fans of the Grande Boucle can join the Valais section of the 2009 Tour de France, which will take them to Verbier or to the Grand-St-Bernard pass, following in the footsteps of professional athletes. To have a totally relaxed pedalling outing, opt for an excursion in the villages and revel in the magic of the surrounding dĂŠcor.

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HIKING TRAIL OF THE SENSES

MARMOT (GROUNDHOG)

100% NATURAL HIKING

TRAIL OF THE SENSES

Set off on a voyage of discovery of a YLNPVU ÄSSLK ^P[O JOHYHJ[LY I` OPRPUN some of the 41 km of sign-posted paths in the heart of La Tzoumaz. From themed paths for all levels of expertise to hikes taking place over several days, everyone will enjoy both the natural and cultural wealth of these places. And after a great walk, take a break on a terrace to savour the region’s gourmet treats, before a unique panorama, while you savour some of the region’s gastronomic specialities.

The Trail of the Senses invites you to take your time to stroll along its route and discover an accessible world to anyone wanting to put their senses to good use. This trail allows you to discover nature through sight, touch, hearing, smell and taste. During this journey, you’ll encounter dozens of different plants - and some insects – under the sharp eye of the shy chamois deer and nutcracker birds. The Trail of the Senses also tracks the route of the black grouse from the House of the Forest to search for its gourmet meals. In its footsteps you will discover its favourite foods such

as rowan, bilberry and blueberry and `V\ ^PSS ÄUK P[Z THQLZ[PJ ILH\[` HUK famous spring courtship displays. The Senses Trail is located in the heart of a nature protection zone in which the ISHJR NYV\ZL ÅV\YPZOLZ PU WLHJL

THE HOUSE OF THE FOREST

BISSES

The House of the Forest and its café is open daily from May 31 to September 29, from 9am to 5pm. Fresh, tasty snacks made from local produce are available. The House of the Forest is a haven for animals in the region. Come and get to know them through the exhibits at the House. There is a playground for our young guests. Free organised activities for children are held every Friday mornings in July and August. The lookout huts built on stilts provide an observation point for viewing the surrounding wildlife.

Proof of man’s ingeniousness, the “bisses” (ancient water courses) have crossed the Valais since the Middle Ages, carrying water from the highest WLHRZ [V [OL ÄLSKZ HUK VYJOHYKZ PU the valley. Still used for irrigation, they are an excellent reason to set off on a refreshing excursion next to the water. The “bisse de Saxon” is a particularly good example of the original procedure.

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SUMMER ACTIVITIES +6>5/033 :*66;,9:

PARAGLIDING

delightful

A THIRST FOR ADVENTURE? THE GREEN PENCIL

PARAGLIDING

This activity introduces the whole family to learning how to draw the natural landscape. With the help of some basic equipment and outlines available to you at the House of the Forest, you can try to reproduce the delightful beauty of the Vallon d’Arby. Sharpen your pencils !

You have never seen La Tzoumaz from this angle! Touch your dream of MYLLKVT ^P[O `V\Y ÄUNLY[PWZ HUK Å` above La Tzoumaz in a paraglider! (SVUL VY PU [HUKLT ¶ NL[ `V\Y ÄSS VM amazing sensations both summer and winter. Renowned for its winds and thermals, the region offers endless possibilities.

TENNIS

CLIMBING AND MOUNTAINEERING Flirt with the rocks and place your emotion at the summit! You will use strength and balance on the mountainside to reach a unique view-point. With 850 faces, 64 climbing sites and seven different types of rock, the region is a natural playground which you can attempt to master. Beginners can cut their teeth on the external walls or introductory gardens devoted to training.

-HUZ VM [OL TV\U[HPUZ ^PSS ÄUK [OLPY Eldorado in La Tzoumaz. The region has several legendary summits for experienced climbers, including the Pierre Avoi. The most mythical ascent remains the Grand Combin, which peaks at 4,314 metres.

SCOOTERS Looking for thrills? Hurtle down the slopes from Savoleyres to La Tzoumaz on all-terrain scooters. Kids and adults alike will have a blast with guaranteed surges of adrenalin!

TENNIS

AND THEN

Get your racquets out and pull on your shorts – the synthetic grass tennis court awaits you. Organise a round with friends or family in a THNUPÄJLU[ (SWPUL ZL[[PUN ¶ NHTL ZL[ and match!

If you still have loads of energy? From the sunrise on Pierre Avoi to a cellar tour and wine tasting, try your hand at any one of a number of varied activities such as pony rides, cooking using plants or handiwork for kids. On your marks, get set, go!

SWIMMING POOL

With its sauna and its outdoor relaxation area, La Tzoumaz is the ideal location to take time out after an active day. Your childhood will soon resurface!

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CALENDAR 50./; ;04, :20 46<5;(05,,905. 9(*,

SUMMER MARKET

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JANUARY

FEBRUARY

JUNE

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

FREERIDE WORLD TOUR QUALIFIER WEEK 3( ;A6<4(A =,9)0,9 Qualifying rounds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Freeride World 8\HSPÃ&#x201E;LY www.freerideworldtour.com

SLEDGING SESSION 3( ;A6<4(A Round of the Valais Sledge Trophy. www.latzoumaz.ch

TRAIL DE LA PIERRE AVOI www.tpva.ch

SWISS NATIONAL DAY 3( ;A6<4(A

LA TZOUMAZ BIKE 3( ;A6<4(A Mountain-Bike Race. www.trophee-valaisan-vtt.ch

MOONLIGHT SLEDGING SESSION 3( ;A6<4(A www.latzoumaz.ch

NIGHT SKI MOUNTAINEERING RACE 3( ;A6<4(A

MARCH

JULY LA TZOUMAZ MARKET 3( ;A6<4(A www.latzoumaz.ch

GRAND RAID VERBIER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GRIMENTZ =,9)0,9 International mountain bike marathon starting from Verbier and passing through La Tzoumaz . www.grand-raid.ch

The dates indicated are subject to JOHUNL 7SLHZL JOLJR ^P[O [OL ]HYPV\Z [V\YPZ[ VMÃ&#x201E;JLZ PU [OL HYLH HUK VU V\Y ^LIZP[L ^^^ SH[aV\THa JO

FAMILIES

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FAMILIES

CHILDREN’S PARADISE Experience something new with your family in La Tzoumaz. This is the perfect destination for both littlies and not so little with the region offering loads of activities indoors and outdoors. Roars of laughter and happy kids – a sure bet!

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INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES

GUIDED ACTIVITIES

FOR BUDDING SKIERS

CAMPS

LA TZOUMAZ KIDS CLUB

Multisport, languages, art, hockey, football, tennis SERVICES

THINGS TO DO IN BAD WEATHER Indoor swimming pool | Visits & Excursions | St. Bernard dogs | Museums | Thermal centers

Offering indoor activites for 2 to 6 year-olds. From 4 years of age, optional ski classes.

Babysitters | Handiwork workshops | Pony rides. * Discover further activities for your kids, on [OL L_J\YZPVUZ WHNLZ c

CURIOSITIES & CULTURE

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BISSE DE SAXON

ETABLONS ALPINE PASTURE

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CURIOSITIES & CULTURE

A RICH AND VARIED HERITAGE HOUSE OF THE FOREST / LA TZOUMAZ The Maison de la Forêt has a permanent exhibition on regional fauna, while kids’ activities are offered during summer. This is the starting point for the Sentier des Sens, a network of educational trails for kids and adults alike.

HÉRENS BREED COWS >P[O H UH[\YHS KLZPYL [V ÄNO[ JV^Z belonging to the Hérens species gambol in the pastures making their ILSSZ YPUN MHY HUK ^PKL (M[LY ÄLY` battles, the queens become the rulers of the pastures. These gentle dairy cows are key participants in upholding the reputation of the famous Rac cheese. You’ll see them during the inalpes (when they go up to the mountain pastures) and the désalpes (when they come down again) or simply around the pastures.

TRADITIONAL SAWMILL

TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE

VALLON DE CHASSOURE / LA TZOUMAZ

In the olden days, traditional chalets and “mayens” were lived in, while attics, granaries and barns were used for storing hay, grain or other feed. These buildings with their original charm underscore the character of the village of Isérables (10 minutes from La Tzoumaz). Along the road are arched stables and memory stones bearing witness to shepherd activity in days gone by. Other notable buildings include medieval bread ovens ^OPJO HYL YLN\SHYS` ÄYLK \W MVY SVJHS celebrations.

Traversed by the Fare River, the sunny slopes of the Vallon de Chassoure are OVTL [V H ^LHS[O VM MH\UH HUK ÅVYH HZ well as to the famous Black Grouse. La Tzoumaz overlooks the Rhône Valley – an exceptional valley whose vineyards and cellars are legendary. Get to know them better through wine tastings, accompanied by the best wine-makers in the region. Cheers!

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GASTRONOMY 36*(3 796+<*,

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MELT WITH DELIGHT! GASTRONOMY

LOCAL PRODUCE

PDO Raclette cheese, highly spiced dried meat, skilfully leavened rye bread – the region is bursting with Alpine culinary traditions and delights. Due to its privileged geographical location, La Tzoumaz enjoys and ideal climate which is the basis of the richness of its local produce. Local specialities rub shoulders with top gastronomy and quality wines that will easily conquer your heart in one of the region’s many restaurants.

Follow your taste buds and discover ÅH]V\YZ [`WPJHS VM [OL YLNPVU Renowned for its PDO Raclette, the region also offers a rich palette of local produce and gourmet addresses. Salting meat and cheese – previously required to conserve produce – is today an integral part of the region’s culinary traditions. Taste and enjoy – you’ll never be able to do without.

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From the pasture to the dairy, discover the process of manufacturing Chassoure cheese and end your day with a taste of authentic PDO Raclette. And for the cherry on the top – taste the highest fondue in Europe in the igloo bar on the peak of the Mont Fort at an altitude of 3,330 metres.

CELLAR VISIT AND WIN TASTING

AROMATIC AND MEDICINAL PLANTS

La Tzoumaz overlooks the Rhône Valley – an exceptional valley whose vineyards and cellars are legendary. Get to know them better through wine tastings, accompanied by the best wine-makers in the region. Cheers!

Famous for its mountains and gastronomy, the region is also wellknown for its aromatic and medicinal plant cultures. Thyme, lemon balm, mint and several dozen other species are used to make herb teas, sweets and well-known cosmetics, bringing [OL MYLZOULZZ HUK ILULÄ[Z VM [OL mountain within everyone’s reach.

EXCURSIONS

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AND THEN... IN THE SURROUNDINGS

ADVENTURE PARKS

NATURE AND HERITAGE

MAUVOISIN DAM Take advantage of the educational trail and discover the highest arched dam in Europe (250m), with the additional advantage of a spectacular view of Mauvoisin Lake and its steep cascades.

WESTERN CITY | 4(9;0.5@ Theme park for kids. www.western-city.ch

DURNAND GORGES 3,: =(3,;;,: )6=,950,9 This one hour walk provides a spectacular aquatic show, orchestrated by 14 waterfalls on a tumultuous river. www.gorgesdudurnand.ch

MONT-FORT 3’330M A panoramic view awaits you from the top of the Mont Fort (3,300m) encompassing the Mont-Blanc, Matterhorn and Grand Combin ranges. Ascent by cablecar. Excursions – sunrise and breakfast – arranged in summer. GRAND ST-BERNARD PASS AND HOSPICE Visit the hospice and its museum which covers the history of this shelter and stopoff point since the beginning of time. Take advantage of your visit to have a walk with the famous St-Bernard dogs. CHAMPEX-LAC AND ITS ALPINE GARDEN =PZP[ [OL THNUPÄJLU[ ¸-SVYL (SWL¹ (SWPUL Garden for a combination of summer botany and romanticism. Whatever the weather, don’t miss a pleasant walk around the lake.

LABYRINTHE AVENTURE | i=0655(A The largest permanent labyrinth in the world. www.labyrinthe.ch HAPPYLAND | GRANGES Theme park for kids. www.happylandnew.ch AQUAPARC | LE )6<=,9,; Waterworld. www.aquaparc.ch SWISS VAPEUR PARC | LE )6<=,9,; A miniature replica of Swiss trains and railway heritage. www.swissvapeur.ch

ALPINE ZOO 3,: 4(9i*6;;,: Mountain animals at Les Marécottes Zoo develop in their natural environment. www.zoo-alpin.ch DINSOSAUR FOOTPRINTS AND DAM ÉMOSSON Marvel at the dinosaur footprints at VieuxEmosson! This is the most important Palaeontology site of its kind in Europe. www.emosson-lac.ch UNDERGROUND LAKE ST-LÉONARD Discovered in 1943, this is the largest navigable underground lake in Europe. www.lac-souterrain.com

TOWNS AND MUSEUMS VAL D’HÉRENS This region is home to the Grande Dixence – the biggest gravity dam in the world – whose unparalleled height is a fascinating 285m. The Euseigne pyramids are also an amazing natural phenomenon. www.valdherens-tourisme.ch

MARTIGNY Explore remnants from the ancient Roman era in the town of Octodure or enjoy an artistic moment at the Fondation Gianadda. www.martigny.com

ICE SEA */(4650? 465; )3(5* Tons of excursions to go and explore around the Mont-Blanc. www.chamonix.com

SION With its 7000-year history, the capital of Valais is the matriarch of Swiss towns. Visit its colourful old town and the castles overlooking it. www.siontourisme.ch

ALETSCH GLACIER RIEDERALP This glacier is the longest in Europe and is JSHZZPÄLK H <5,:*6 ^VYSK OLYP[HNL ZP[L www.aletscharena.ch

SIERRE The sunniest town in Switzerland is home to one of the two sites belonging to the Valais Museum of Vineyards and Wine. www.sierre-anniviers.ch

PAVILLON DE GLACE SAAS-FEE The highest in the world at 3,500 m! www.saas-fee.ch

ST-MAURICE Founded in the 6th century, the Abbey of St-Maurice hosted pilgrims on their way to Grand-St-Bernard. www.saint-maurice.ch

MATTERHORN A,94(;; Switzerland’s iconic image. www.zermatt.ch

MONTREUX ;OL THNUPÄJLU[ *Oo[LH\ KL *OPSSVU VU the banks of Lake Geneva is a must for all history lovers. In town, take a stroll down Montreux’s promenade, lined with exotic trees. www.montreuxriviera.com LAUSANNE Lausanne’s museums will show you art in all its forms. Those not-to-be missed at all costs are the Olympic Museum and the Gothic Cathedral. www.lausanne-tourisme.ch GENEVA Known all over the world for its Jet d’eau, the city at the end of the lake glitters with its wealth of museums and its cathedral. www.geneve-tourisme.ch