From Savoleyres to the mountain lake Lac des Vaux

The gondola takes you from La Tzoumaz to Savoleyres (2,354 m above sea level), with glorious views in all directions: into the Rhône Valley, down to Verbier and the Val de Bagnes, across to the Grand Combin massif and Mont Blanc.

The first section of the hike follows the ridge down to the Col de Croix de Coeur. The restaurant with panoramic views and a small helicopter landing pad invites you to stay. The path then continues with a steep ascent to the Col des Mines where hikers can still see the historic remains of the mining works. Miners extracted lead ore rich in silver, which was used to produce the Swiss 1-franc coins. The mine operated until its bankruptcy in 1861.

Beyond the pass, the path continues upwards past three mountain lakes – the ideal place for a short break. Then the path leads into the Vallon de Chassoure, also known as the Vallon d’Arbi: a pristine and alpine valley where you can observe wildlife well.

At Les Pontets, the path leaves the bank of the river La Fare and leads to the Suone of Saxon, a historic irrigation canal of Valais. Shortly after the suone, you reach the barbecue site of Le Marteau, equipped with tables and a grill.

Then the path leaves the suone and passes the forest house "Maison de la Forêt." This is definitely worth a visit; the café, exhibitions, and botanical garden with numerous medicinal plants are very special. Afterwards, the hiking trail leads down to the chalets of La Tzoumaz and further to the gondola. The Savoleyres mountain railway is open from July to August.

Highlights of the route: