Champoussin lies in a mountain basin with a direct view of the Dents du Midi. Alpine meadows also define the area: they feature numerous wetlands and lush vegetation. Mountain scenery and green meadows are therefore as much a part of Champoussin as the opportunities to spend days skiing or snowshoeing.

Skiing and snowshoeing in Champoussin

The Champéry–Les Crosets–Morgins–Champoussin ski area is part of the cross-border French-Swiss Portes du Soleil ski area. The local beginner terrain is characterised by gentle slopes and wide pistes. At the top station of the Les Bochasses chairlift, the piste of the same name offers two blue runs and a red alternative. The piste layout may change; check which pistes are open before your trip.

Those planning snowshoe routes will find four marked trails in Champoussin. Their availability depends on the season and conditions. The Région Dents du Midi’s trail network also includes a 5.5-kilometre route in Champoussin and a 16-kilometre long-distance route from Champoussin to Les Crosets. Comparing the length and destination can help you choose without treating the routes as equivalent: one stays in Champoussin, while the other leads to Les Crosets. Seasonal conditions should also be taken into account on these routes.

Another way to explore the area is the Tour des alpages, an easy hike that passes alpine restaurants. It offers the chance to sample local products on a terrace overlooking the Dents du Midi. Participating restaurants and their seasonal opening times may change. So if you plan to stop for a meal, check in advance which restaurants are participating and open.

Alpine meadows, cheese and other activities

Cheese is made at La Ferme à Gaby. In summer, around 30 Chamoisée alpine goats graze on the extensive meadows surrounding the farm. Seasonal farm activities and arrangements for visitors may change; check what is currently available before planning a visit. A cheese-making demonstration is also held in Champoussin. Dates and providers may change, so it is advisable to check the latest dates in advance.

There is also a paragliding school in Champoussin. As local providers and availability may change, check in advance if you plan to take part in this activity. The different options give your stay a range of possible focuses: ski slopes and snowshoe routes depend on the season and conditions, while the goats at La Ferme à Gaby graze in the meadows in summer.

Getting there and the regional setting

Bus No. 81 connects Val-d’Illiez railway station with the resort villages of Champoussin and Les Crosets. Check the route and timetable before your trip. The starting point for the Tour de Délifrète is at the large car park on the right at the entrance to Champoussin. As parking arrangements may change, it is a good idea to check the starting point again before your visit.

The Val d’Illiez lies in the wider region surrounding Champoussin. This glacial valley is in the canton of Valais, in the Monthey district and the Valais Chablais. The Vièze drains the valley; its boundaries include the Dents du Midi, the Dents Blanches and other mountain formations, as well as the Susanfe glacial basin. This regional landscape complements Champoussin’s immediate view of the Dents du Midi with the broader context of the valley.

For the wider travel overview: Val-D'illiez.