Vercorin is a gateway to the Vallon de Réchy nature reserve. The mountain village lies on a mountain terrace above Sierre at an altitude of 1,330 metres; from here, the view stretches across the Rhône Valley, the Alps and the Rhône plain. When planning your trip, the surrounding nature, the village’s history and seasonal activities offer different ways to explore the area.
Landscape and hiking
The Vallon de RĂ©chy is a nature reserve considered to have been preserved from civilisation. Vercorin is a starting point for numerous hikes of varying difficulty, offering ways to explore the valley.
Crêt du Midi also shapes the mountain landscape above Vercorin. It is the northernmost peak in the mountain range that includes Sasseneire, Becs de Bosson and Roc d’Orzival. This range separates the Val de Réchy, also known as the Val d’Hérens, from the Val d’Anniviers.
Village history and art
The Bisse de Vercorin was built in 1358 and is 6.3 kilometres long. As part of local pasture and water management, this irrigation channel was used to water meadows and supply water to mills downstream. Alongside the natural setting, the region’s former use of water is therefore another distinct aspect of the village’s history.
The Fondation Édouard Vallet exhibits works by Édouard and Marguerite Vallet-Gilliard as well as contemporary art. The artist couple acquired the house in 1912; it became an exhibition venue in 2013. Some exhibitions change seasonally. If a particular exhibition interests you, check the programme for your travel dates.
“Paroles de Mélèze” offers another way to discover the village’s history: over the past several years, more than forty inscriptions have been inventoried, deciphered, translated where appropriate, and explained as part of the project. Visitors can explore the village freely and use interconnected medallions to discover the inscriptions on house façades in detail. A guided tour with a local guide is also possible; guide availability may vary.
Mountain biking and other outdoor experiences
In summer, the Family Trail starts at the Sigeroulaz gondola’s mountain station. This fun trail takes beginners and experienced riders alike gradually down to Vercorin. The Crêt du Midi Flowtrail can be combined with the Family Trail, making it possible to descend almost 1,000 metres. Both mountain bike routes are seasonal; check current opening conditions before setting out.
ForĂŞt Aventures is located on the Sigeroulaz alp above Vercorin. The seasonal facility has six courses with continuous belay systems and six zip lines. Course configurations may be adjusted for safety reasons; check operating conditions before visiting.
Winter activities and seasonal differences
In winter, the facilities include 35 kilometres of ski runs, five ski lifts, a chairlift, a covered conveyor belt, a snow park and a beginners’ area. The Rando Parc comprises three signposted ski touring routes through wild landscapes. The Vercorin Rando Parc / Tracui route is a moderately difficult climb to the Tracui alp; ski conditions may affect access.
Snowshoe hikes offer winter walks through landscapes blanketed in fresh snow. An artificial ice rink is also part of the seasonal offerings. There is a practical difference to consider when choosing your travel dates: mountain bike routes and winter activities are seasonal, while paragliding flights take off from the village of Vercorin all year round and can land in Chalais in the RhĂ´ne Valley. Flights remain weather-dependent.
Getting there and practical information
The Chalais–Vercorin cable car connects the valley floor with the mountain village in seven minutes. As services may change, check the current service status before travelling.
The free Espace du Lavioz family recreation area is a five-minute walk from the village centre. Seasonal facilities include a toboggan run where children can try the sport in peaceful surroundings. Individual facilities may change.
For local produce, the Duay family offers fresh goods weekly, including fruit and vegetables, farm eggs, honey, fruit brandies, jams, cheese and sausages. Check dates and seasonal opening arrangements before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Grône, Sierre, Lens, Chandolin, Icogne, Chalais Vs, Anniviers, Miège
For the broader travel overview: Siders.
