The best city hikes and walks in the Valais

Dominating the Sion skyline from one of the two hills overlooking the capital of Valais, Valère Castle is a fortified complex that seems suspended in time. Inside, it houses the Basilica of Our Lady of Valère, an architectural masterpiece blending Romanesque and Gothic styles. The castle is world-renowned for housing one of the oldest functioning organs on the planet, dating back to the 14th century, whose notes still resonate within the medieval walls today. Strolling through its courtyards and ramparts, one enjoys an unparalleled view of the Rhône Valley and the surrounding peaks. The sacred and military atmosphere of the fortified village reflects centuries of history and spiritual power, making it an unmistakable symbol of the Swiss landscape.

The view of the Basilica de Valère and the Rhône Valley alone is worth the climb to Tourbillon

Directly behind the Basilica of Our Lady on the Valère hill, the viewing platform offers a magnificent view of the old town of Sion / Sitten, the local mountain Mont d'Orge, the Rhône valley and numerous mountain peaks, such as Haut de Cry (2976 m), Grand Chavalard (2903 m), Dent de Nendaz (2467 m)...

Unfortunately, it is still not known how the historic Stockalper Garden was designed in the 17th century. However, its basic structures, which Kaspar Stockalper von Thurm added to the formerly much larger garden landscape (some 10,000 m2), can be precisely described in the historical sources. The garden is divided into two elements: the parterre with pleasure garden (Viridarium) equipped with water elements and squares, and the park with orchard (Pomarium) planted with Pro Specie Rara varieties. With the exciting tree planting, the project spatially ties the different sub-areas together. The meadow embankment is kept free of trees, creating a beautiful transition to the vineyard slope and an exciting line of sight to the castle. Above the cellar vaults, the rose garden provides a small-scale counterpoint to the wide areas. Source: https://www.myswitzerland.com/de-de/erlebnisse/parkgarten-stockalpergarten/

The Saltina has repeatedly flooded Brig, most recently on September 24, 1993. The debris that the Saltina had carried piled up to three meters high in the city center of Brig. Large parts of Glis and the industrial district in Gamsen were also under water. The disaster cost two people their lives. The damage amounted to half a billion francs. The disaster was triggered by heavy rainfall, which caused the water level to rise sharply. The debris and driftwood carried along with it accumulated at the Saltina bridge and the Saltina overflowed its banks. 250,000 m³ of mud, sand and debris were cleared away from the city of Brig. After the disaster, a hydraulic lifting bridge was built that is automatically raised in the event of flooding. All other bridges were also made dismantled or covered with boards. Further down the valley, two debris chambers were built and the embankments were also raised. The new protection system was put to the test in October 2000. The Saltina reached 30 percent higher discharge values than in 1993. The measures proved successful, as there was only minor damage. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saltina

As an important hub in the Swiss and international rail network, Brig station connects important routes such as the Simplon line to Italy and the Matterhorn-Gotthard railway. With modern facilities, extensive service offerings and optimal transfer options, Brig station offers a comfortable and pleasant travel experience. Source and further information at https://www.brig-simplon.ch/poi/bahnhof-brig

During the summer months, Sebastiansplatz is tempting with its numerous garden terraces, which create a southern atmosphere. During Advent, small houses are set up on Sebastiansplatz, offering warm wine and other delicacies. During this time, the square is transformed into an enchanting winter fairytale. There are also houses and an ice skating rink on the neighboring town square. Source: https://www.brig-simplon.ch/poi/sebastiansplatz

On September 23, 1910, the Peruvian Geo Chavez was the first to fly an airplane over the Alps from Ried-Brig to Domodossola. Shortly before landing in Domodossola, both wings of the Blériot folded upwards and man and machine fell to the ground from a height of almost twenty meters. Geo Chavez died on September 28, 1910. The fountain with Icarus on Sebastiansplatz has commemorated this daring flight since 1920. To this day, the largest airport in Peru bears the name of its proud pilot, Geo Chavez. Source: https://www.brig-simplon.ch/poi/chavez-brunnen