The Valais and Alpes Vaudoises contain some truly wonderous scenery, with fresh Alpine meadows and some of the highest peaks in the Alps, including the iconic Matterhorn. The high altitude resorts of Zermatt and Saas-Fee mean summer skiing is available in this region and although quieter in summer than during the busy ski season, the area still has very much to offer. Whilst each resort has its own unique character and attractions, wherever you choose to stay you will be greeted with traditional Swiss hospitality, memorable train journeys and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, each with its own awe-inspiring panorama.
This is excellent walking country with well marked paths, often with approximate walking times. Mountain bikers too will love the 150km of all terrain paths on the high alpine slopes of Villars. Saas Fee and Zermatt are car-free and therefore great for families while the Villars free-access card offers excellent values. Cogwheel mountain railways and cable cars transport you to the highest peaks. Dine in the world's highest revolving restaurant, relax in a stübli or pay a round at golf at an altitude of 1600m.
Valais & Vaudoise Alps Top Highlights
Gornergrat RailwayTake this charming cog railway known as the 'Matterhorn railway' from Zermatt and watch the constantly changing views over stunning bridges, through tunnels, idyllic forests, past gorges and mountain lakes. Arriving at Gornergrat, you'll be rewarded with some fantastic views, and from here perhaps relax in a stübli and enjoy the pure mountain air. A superb day out.
Glacier Express - Zermatt to GraubündenOne of the most scenic journeys in Switzerland and the perfect way to enjoy a twin centre holiday with Zermatt and Davos or St Moritz. Panoramic carriages ensure you take in every ounce of the beautiful glaciers, gorges, bridges, valleys and mountain scenery
Helicopter FlightsGet a birds eye view of the iconic Matterhorn with a helicopter tour. Enjoy the 4,000 foot peaks from the comfort of a helicopter that also performs search and rescue.
Allalin and Ice PavillionFrom Saas Fee take the Alpine Express cable car up to Felskinn where you will enjoy some extensive views before boarding the Metro Alpine Train, the world's highest underground funicular. This hour long journey takes you up to Allalin, the world's highest revolving restaurant. Carved out of the Saas Fee glacier, climb down the 114 steps below the ice and encounter the Ice Pavillion.
Schwarsee LakeTake the cable car from Zermatt up to the idyllic, picturesque Schwarsee lake based at the foot of the Matterhorn and enjoy some fabulous views. In the summer the temperature of the lake makes it ideal for swimming. There is a small chapel here too. It's a great place to enjoy a gentle walk.
Free-access Villars
Guests staying in Villars receive the free-access card providing free travel on local trains and buses, as well as a wide range of local facilities (swimming, tennis, ice rink etc), cultural attractions and guided walks.