Holiday destinations: Valleys

Centovalli (Hundred Valleys) owes its name to the countless side valleys on both sides of the central valley. Since time immemorial it has been an important transit region between Switzerland and Italy. Its natural landscape, which is of extraordinary scenic beauty, offers nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts a myriad of recreational opportunities.

The Vallée de Joux with its lake and long watch-making tradition is a world of its own in rugged and unspoilt countryside nestling between Jura Mountain Ranges.

The Vallon de Nant is situated in the Canton Vaud and can be reached from the village of Bex. The valley is known for high precipitation. It is a nature preserve, begins at Pont de Nant (1253 m) and climbs up to the snow-capped mountains of the Dents de Morcles.

The Val Calnègia high valley, a side valley of the Bavona Valley, opens up above Foroglio. It can only be reached on foot, but the reward in the form of a submerged creek, unusual buildings and spectacular scenery is well worth the effort.

It looks like fairies and ancient creatures are hiding in the Kaltbrunnen Valley. You can find smoky caves, creeks that suddenly vanish into thin air, continuing their path in the underground cave system until they reappear, seemingly out of nowhere. The rugged valley is a place you want to explore.

Just 30 minutes away from the busy Gotthard Highway lies a rugged and quiet natural paradise. Here cowbells, rather than cars, make the most noise.

Though largely neglected by tourists in the past, this secluded area has long been an insider tip for climbers and mountaineers.

This peaceful village, situated at 950 m altitude is the ideal spot for a relaxing visit.

The Kien Valley in the Bernese Oberland, a holiday resort with about 210 inhabitants, is a side valley of the Kandertal. The end of the valley is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kien Valley is within the administrative district of Reichenbach.

The narrow Calanca Valley is one of the Italian speaking southern valleys of Graubünden. It has earned its name Calanca (steeply sloping).

In the Weisstannental you will find untouched nature. The quiet mountain valley in the canton of St. Gallen invites you to discover clear streams, impressive waterfalls and numerous hiking trails.

The Muota Valley is known for its down-to-earth weather prophets and its more than 200-kilometer-long karst Höllloch cave system. But it has plenty more to offer, even in winter, and for anyone who wants to give ice climbing a go, this is the perfect place!

In the heart of Graubünden you will find a magnificent natural landscape that is largely designed by the culture of the Walser people. While in winter a white snow-clad landscape delights visitors, in summer they can walk across flower-rich meadows and pastures.

Boulders, rock faces an boundless nature are the distinguishing features of this region, which man penetrated in ancient times.

An idyllic valley in the Alps that connects the Canton of Graubünden with Italy (the North with the South).

The Muggio Valley is the southernmost valley in Switzerland and comprises nine rustic villages. A pristine valley recognised as Switzerland’s most beautiful landscape by the foundation for landscape conservation in 2014.

The Sagenmülital features the highest waterfall in the Canton Aargau and also includes a discontinued stone quarry and a light spruce forest in a spectacular setting.

The protected Val Frisal, a 3 km plateau at about 1900 m, is perfect to linger a while, relax and leave all your cares behind. The high valley can only be reached on foot and offers amazing panoramic views.

Opposite Gondo on the Italian border, there is a winding road built on a terrace. A stunning wild valley stretches for 16 km beyond the road: this is the Zwischbergental.

The Val de Réchy, which is located to the south of Sierre, is an untamed natural valley. Its unspoiled state, natural streams, mountain lakes and blanket mires with their interesting flora make Val de Réchy a very worthwhile hiking destination.

The Binn Valley in Upper Valais is a wild and romantic side valley of Goms. The valley is a paradise for nature lovers and in particular for those in seek of minerals and precious mountain crystals. Hikers, too, discover this remote valley to be a worthwhile destination for an interesting visit.