The Valais, with its imposing mountains and deep valleys, is home to numerous hikes and magnificent alpine lakes that invite you to contemplate and escape.
For keen hikers staying at the Hotel Alpina, a member of the prestigious Cinq 4000 group, here are some ideas for nearby lakes. These offer hikes suitable for all levels and majestic landscapes to discover.
Here’s a list of the region’s most beautiful lakes with suggested hikes, for unforgettable getaways in the heart of the Valais.
Lake Derborence
~ 12 km (round trip)
~ 4 to 5 hours
Moderate to difficult
Lac Derborence, in a wild, unspoilt valley in the Valais, is one of the few Swiss lakes formed naturally by rockfalls at altitude.
The hike around this mountain lake starts in Ovronnaz, with a route offering sublime panoramic views and a substantial vertical drop.
The hike past Cabane Rambert makes the effort worthwhile, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valley.
For the less adventurous, it’s also possible to access the lake directly from Derborence, about an hour’s walk away, or have a picnic by the lake.
Tour of Lac de Mauvoisin
7 km (complete loop)
2 to 3 hours
Easy to moderate
The turquoise waters of Lac de Mauvoisin, high up in the Val de Bagnes in the Valais, impress at the foot of the Combins massif.
The tour around the lake is relatively flat and perfect for families. The path skirts the cliffs, offering unique views of several gushing waterfalls.
The contrast between the sparkling water and the mountains is striking, and it’s not unusual to spot ibex and marmots along the way.
Blue Lake Arolla
4 km (round trip)
1h30 to 2 hours
Easy to moderate
Departure from La Gouille (village near Arolla)
The high-altitude Lac Bleu d’Arolla is one of the jewels of Val d’Hérens in the Valais, with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by larch forests, Alpine peaks and wild animals such as chamois.
The lake is accessible from the village of La Gouille, near Arolla, via a pleasant hiking trail.
The path, short but a little steep on the way up, offers superb views and leads to a deep-blue lake. In summer, you can picnic by the lake, surrounded by peaceful, unspoilt nature.
Sierre Lakes Tour
12 to 15 km (depending on the route chosen)
4 to 5 hours
Moderate
The Tour des Lacs de Sierre in Valais is an ideal loop for hikers who appreciate variety.
The hike takes you through forests, meadows and vistas of the Rhône valley, each lake offering its own unique charm. An ideal circuit for photo enthusiasts!
The latter is particularly popular in autumn, when the trees take on flamboyant colors, making the reflections on the lakes even more spectacular.
Lake Stellisee
5 km (round trip)
1h30 to 2 hours
Easy
The Stellisee is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn in Valais.
The trail from Blauherd is well laid out, perfect for families and photography enthusiasts.
At sunrise, the calm waters of the lake perfectly reflect the Matterhorn, offering an emblematic Swiss landscape. A stroll around the lake allows you to admire the beauty of the surrounding peaks.
Lake Stausee Mattmark
8 km (complete loop)
2 to 3 hours
Easy
The Stausee Mattmark in Saas-Almagell in the Valais is surrounded by glaciers and impressive mountains.
The flat trail around the lake is ideal for a leisurely stroll, taking in the panoramic views.
In summer, the surrounding meadows are covered in Alpine flowers, adding color to an already majestic setting.
Lake Arbey
4 km (round trip)
1h30 to 2 hours
Easy
Departure from the village of Evolène.
Lac d’Arbey is a peaceful, idyllic spot nestled in the mountainside near Evolène in the Valais.
Accessible via a well-maintained path, it offers a pleasant walk through alpine meadows. Ideal for a stroll.
The view of the Dent Blanche from the lake is exceptional, and in autumn, the reflection of the golden larch trees in the water creates a fascinating spectacle.
This lake is perfect for a family outing.
Lake Daubensee
~ 8 km (round trip)
3 hours
Average
Departure from the Gemmi Pass.
Lake Daubensee, near the Gemmi Pass in Valais, is surrounded by imposing peaks.
The hike takes in alpine meadows and rocky landscapes offering spectacular panoramic views.
The lake, with its deep blue waters, is nestled between sheer cliffs, creating a wild and captivating backdrop. In summer, the lake’s tranquil beauty attracts nature lovers looking for a change of scenery.
Finally
The Valais mountains abound with natural treasures, hiking trails and the lakes around the Hotel Alpina offer the perfect getaway to recharge your batteries.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, each lake is a unique discovery.
Take advantage of your stay in the comfort of the Hotel Alpina to explore these natural gems and experience magical moments in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
This list of different hikes will give you the chance to get away from it all at altitude and in the mountains.
