At an altitude of 1,650 metres, Eison is known for its tranquillity. The village consists of two hamlets separated by a rushing stream. When planning a stay, choosing your routes is a good place to start: the Sentier Nature leads from Eison to Nax, and there are also circular hikes and a snowshoe trail with views across the Val d’Hérens. This makes it easy to compare trail lengths, elevation profiles and seasonal conditions.
Hikes by length and character
The 15-kilometre Sentier Nature runs from Eison to Nax at an average altitude of 1,600 metres. The route passes through forests and flower-filled meadows, follows three bisses, crosses mountain streams and goes by alpine pastures. Bisses are historic irrigation channels; together with the waterways, they are among the route’s distinctive features.
The Eison–L’A Vieille circular hike is 7.1 kilometres long and takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. It starts in Eison at 1,641 metres and climbs 742 metres to an altitude of 2,372 metres. Along the way, the route passes through a variety of well-preserved natural areas, suitable for relaxation and observing Alpine flora and fauna. Plan your hike with seasonal mountain-trail conditions in mind.
The Tour des villages de Saint-Martin offers a different focus: it is 11.9 kilometres long, of moderate difficulty and takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes. The trail climbs through Eison to the alpine pastures of Eison, offering glimpses of traditional architecture, open landscapes and an Alpine atmosphere. Compared with the Eison–L’A Vieille circular hike, it is 4.8 kilometres longer; however, the estimated durations differ by only about half an hour. Conditions on this mountain hike are also seasonal.
Snowshoe trail and mountain bike route
The Eison–La Crettaz snowshoe trail offers impressive views across the Val d’Hérens from a natural viewing balcony. The 200 metres of elevation gain are spread evenly over the climb, and the trail is considered suitable for all hikers. In winter, access depends on snow and trail conditions. Check both before setting out.
For mountain bikers, the challenging Grand Raid Eison–Pas de Lona route climbs more than 1,000 metres to its highest point at 2,788 metres. Conditions can change quickly in the high mountains. The descent follows the same route; from there, you can continue towards Grimentz or take the recommended detour to the Cabane des Becs de Bosson.
Hamlets, architecture and local products
The Eison alpine pasture lies within the municipality of Saint-Martin and covers 173 hectares. Above the village of Eison, the hamlet of the L’A Vieille alpine pasture sits on a gently sloping high plateau at an altitude of 2,400 metres. The original hamlet has retained its distinctive character; the buildings have been renovated in keeping with their original style. Eison’s old chapel is also worth a visit.
L’A Vieille has a renovated agritourism building with a local-products area and a refreshment bar. The business operates seasonally; check before your visit whether the bar and product area are open. In the wider Saint-Martin area, regional products and dishes include beef, lamb and goat, alpine cheese and cheese from local dairies, raclette, Tsarfion, dried meat, cured ham, smoked bacon and rye bread.
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For the main travel overview: Ering.
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