Mex Vs is an unusual mountain village at an altitude of 1,118 metres. The view stretches far down to the Rhône plain, while hiking trails lead from the village to alpine pastures, viewpoints and high-altitude destinations. The routes vary considerably: some form a loop, while others follow a high-altitude trail or an old quarry path. This makes it easy to choose based on whether you are looking for a view, a longer and more challenging hike, or a glimpse of local culture.

Mountain Trails and Views Around Mex

The circular hike to L’Aiguille de Mex leads from the village via the Les Planets alpine pasture. At L’Aiguille, a sweeping panorama opens up in every direction. Another high-altitude hike starts in Mex and leads to the Col du Jorat at 2,210 metres; along the way, you can enjoy views of the Salanfe plateau. If you are interested in a family hike between Salvan and Lac d’Emosson, you can start it in Mex via the Col du Jorat. The alpine pastures around Mex can be reached on foot in one to two hours.

For a longer, challenging outing, the Chemin de la carrière is a distinct option: the 11.71-kilometre route descends from Mex to the plain and returns via the old quarry path. The Sentier du Scex Blanc has a different character. From the heights of Mex, it follows a wooded path to Orgères and then on to Les Planets, where there are several viewpoints. A wooded hike from Saint-Maurice to Mex is also possible; thanks to the many trails, it can be lengthened or shortened depending on the route you choose.

In winter, the Sentier du Scex Blanc can be traversed with snowshoes and short climbing skins; accessibility depends on snow and trail conditions. The La Chaux route can also be explored on snowshoes in winter, depending on conditions. The Tour des chalets, meanwhile, is an easy, scenic route to a broad esplanade. Various structures from the former construction site for the Saint-Barthélémy dams can still be seen there. Check route conditions before setting out; the path on the route to Au de Mex is exposed in places.

A trail leads to Au de Mex, a rugged-looking alpine pasture at the foot of the 3,178-metre Cime de l’Est. If you are considering a longer tour rather than a single hike, Mex is also a stage on the Tour des Dents du Midi and the Tour des Deux Rives. The Giette hut is located on the alpine pasture of the same name and offers hikers simple accommodation. It is free to access and open to hikers; check access conditions locally before relying on the hut.

Breadmaking Traditions, Regional Cuisine and Local History

In Mex, the Four Al’Pain association maintains breadmaking as a traditional cultural heritage and follows a recurring baking calendar. On baking days, freshly baked country bread and multigrain bread are available. As dates and ordering arrangements are important for your visit, check the calendar in advance.

The Auberge de l’Armailli serves local, seasonal produce sourced through short supply chains, including cheese from the regional alpine pastures. Mountain dishes include fondue, cheese crusts, alpine cheese raclette and homemade rösti. Before your visit, check which dishes are available and how service is arranged. In addition to the hiking trails, the small chapel dedicated to Saint Florentin offers another glimpse of the village; Mass is celebrated there.

Mex is a locality and former municipality in the canton of Valais, in the district of Saint-Maurice. The place name has been recorded since 1298 in the form “Meys”. A local legend is also part of the village’s lore: three men sentenced to death are said to have defeated an Ouïvre and were then granted the region for settlement. This tale is folklore, not an advertised current experience.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Maurice Vs, Salvan, Vernayaz, Dorénaz, Massongex, Vérossaz, Finhaut.

Return to the main travel overview: Saint-Maurice.