Views across the Val de Nendaz and the Rhône Valley, a hike with clearly stated route details, or a seasonal glimpse into cheesemaking: Thyon combines alpine activities with regional culture. The experiences on offer vary depending on the time of year—from cycling and mini golf in summer to ski days and snowshoe hikes in winter.
Altitude and Alpine Orientation
Thyon is part of the political municipality of Vex, on the western slope of the Val d’Hérémence, in the Hérens district of the canton of Valais. The village lies at around 2,095 m above sea level; from here, views extend to the Matterhorn, the Dent Blanche and Mont Blanc. Its location is also a useful guide when choosing activities: Thyon offers both hiking and cycling routes as well as winter activities.
Thyon is connected to the 4 Vallées ski area, which includes the destinations of La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Verbier and Veysonnaz. In the ski area around Thyon, easy and intermediate runs predominate. Those who want to explore the region on skis can also choose a guided option for a longer ski day.
Summer: Hiking, Cycling and Outdoor Fun
The summer hike “Randonnée Thyon - Combatseline” is 7 km long, takes about two hours and has an elevation change of 199 m; its difficulty is rated 1/5. Along the way, you can enjoy views across the Val de Nendaz and the Rhône Valley. The route starts in Thyon, near the mountain station of the Veysonnaz gondola lift, and heads towards the Bisse de Chervé. Check access to the gondola lift and trail conditions before setting out.
The “Escape game en pleine nature” offers a different way to spend time outdoors. This outdoor escape game takes place in the Forêt de Thyon and starts at the Thyon tourist office. It lasts about three hours, including one to two hours of walking. These time estimates can help you plan your day without confusing the activity with the shorter hike.
With “Le Bike à Thyon,” you can cycle alone or in groups along Thyon’s trails and discover alpine landscapes. Bikes for marked cycling routes can be rented from sports shops in the region; check providers and availability in advance. For a different way to get around, all-terrain scooters let visitors explore the Thyon alp in the heart of the 4 Vallées and the Val d’Hérens. The “La trottinette tout terrain pour tous” activity is offered in summer from the opening of the chairlifts. It is designed as a family experience and is suitable for children aged 8 and over who are at least 135 cm tall. Confirm the requirements before booking.
There are also seasonal leisure activities at Thyon 2000’s square: below the square, electric quad bikes, remote-controlled boats, table tennis and volleyball are available in summer. The leisure area by the pond includes a covered picnic area and a nine-hole mini golf course. As these activities are seasonal, check their operating hours before your visit.
Winter Days in the 4 Vallées
The “4 Vallées Backcountry” offer includes a seven-hour ski day exploring the 4 Vallées, accompanied by certified ski instructors. Participants need a backpack containing an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe, as well as a valid ski pass; equipment is not included in the course price.
For a trip on foot, “Raquettes & Saveurs Montagnardes” is a guided snowshoe hike through the forest under the starry sky. Snowshoes are included in the price; as this is a seasonal winter activity, check availability before travelling. The introductory dog-sledding experience in Thyon 2000 is also seasonal. It is described as an easily accessible family activity in which participants take turns on a route that is covered several times. Check dates and booking conditions in advance.
Cheesemaking at the Alpage de Thyon
At the Alpage de Thyon, visitors can learn more about the production of raclette and other regional cheese specialities; the visit also includes a tasting. Around a hundred cheeses can be seen in the cellar while the cheesemaker explains the craft. Visits take place there every Wednesday evening between July and August. As the visitor programme is seasonal, check the dates before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Les Collons.
Return to the main travel overview: Vex.
