Short stay idea: 3 days to explore Evolène’s rich heritage

Delight in getting lost in the centuries-old alleyways of Évolène

Morning:

Meet up with your local guide for a personalised visit of the narrow streets of Evolène. Centuries-old traditional chalets, architectural features specific to the region, historical details showcasing the way of life of local ‘Evolénards’ throughout the generations… This immersive stroll will find you immersed in enduring traditional mountains crafts. 

Our recommendation: ask your guide to conclude the tour in front of the Evolène Museum. There, you will find a rich collection of ancient artefacts, as well as an exhibition displaying traditional local costumes and their evolution throughout the years. A fascinating and touching showcase!

Tour bookings at least 24h in advance, with the Tourist Office

Admission to the Evolène Museum| CHF 8.- / adult et CHF 3.- / children

Other suggestion to combine history and gastronomy :  why not treat yourself to a gourmet tour of Evolène? Still in the company of a knowledgeable local tour guide, explore the centuries-old alleyways, hidden nooks and iconic places… and enjoy a fine local wine at every stop on your delightful promenade.

Bookings with the Evolène Tourist Office | From CHF 49.- / person (or from CHF 39.- / person for the alcohol-free version of the tour)

Afternoon:

Marvel at the creations from the weaving workshop and shop of Marie Métrailler, weaver from Evolène (1901 – 1979) whose fascinating life saw her become a talented craftswoman, successful businesswoman, literature aficionada, and advocate for the empowerment of her fellow village women…

Table linen, cushions, bags, pencil cases, colourful pouches, glasses cases, bookmarks, key rings: you can find a myriad of handcrafted products woven locally, perfect as a gift or to decorate your ‘home sweet home’ once back you’ve returned from your travels.

Check the opening hours of the  weaving workshop and shop of Marie Métrailler

Come and hear all about the traditional seasonal transhumance alongside the Alpine paths

Morning:

Join Patricia Wyssenbach (mule driver and storyteller) and Éric Quinodoz (local guide and historian) for a day dedicated to traditional pastoral life. Walk along the paths, first, in the shade of the majestic larch trees, then through the lush mountain pastures where the queens of these vast open spaces graze: the Hérens cows. Following in Patricia and Éric’s footsteps, you will discover the Cotter cup-marked stone and its legend, as well as the Novelette mountain pasture and its cheese-making tradition.

For dinner, the culinary heritage of the Val d’Hérens takes centre stage. Expect a menu of delicious traditional raclette accompanied by a local wine, overlooking the Dent Blanche and the valley.

Bookings at least 48h in advance | CHF 800.- / full day (guided tour led by Patricia and Éric + dinner)

Evening:

To close this day dedicated to local pastures, step inside the Evolène Central Dairy Farm: here, a guided tour will disclose the secrets behind the production of ‘Haudères’ raclette, Tomme des Haudères and Tomme Évolénarde (three local cheeses). Take this opportunity to do a bit of shopping, and savour your purchases in the enchanting setting of Évolène’s narrow streets, where you can listen for the distant tinkling of the herds’ bells. 

Bookings at least 24h in advance with the Evolène Tourist Office | From CHF 10.- / person

Day 3: Discover the remarkable irrigation system developed by our ancestors to grow vines and fruit trees

Morning:

Take a stroll through the Val des Dix (the ‘Vale of the Tens’, so named after a local legend which recounts that ten famous bandits once hid there), following in the footsteps of Céline Gaspoz, mid-mountain guide. With her, you will travel in time to the 14th century, during which was established the bisse d’Ernaya, a typical Valais irrigation channel, now dried up but still clearly visible. On your way, you will also come upon the old bisse d'Hérémence (built around 1440), and the bisse d’Euseigne, whose water will make your walk all the more enjoyable through its gentle and refreshing lapping.

Bookings at least 48h in advance | CHF 500.- / full day; picnic basket, with a selection of local produce, available as an optional extra.

Evening:

You now know everything there is to know about traditional irrigation systems for Valais vineyards… it’s high time to treat yourself to a bottle of local wine, which you can find in the shops in the village of Évolène. Will you raise a glass that very evening? Or would you rather keep your treasure as a memento of your holiday, to savour once back home?