Arbaz lies at an average altitude of 1,150 metres on the south-facing slope of the Adret. From here, the views extend across the RhĂ´ne Valley and the Valais Alps. At 2,886 metres, the Col des Audannes is the highest point in the municipality. This offers a range of options for planning your stay: walking trails, climbing routes, bisses and places to relax.
Hiking trails and bisses in Arbaz
Arbaz and its mountains are best experienced on foot. Options include walking trails, as well as winter walking trails and snowshoe paths. Visitors can also hike along the bisses. The routes differ in direction and in the places they pass through: the Chemin des Moulins runs through Arbaz towards the Vallon de la Sionne and returns via the village of Blignou.
The Chemin du Tour de la Combe d’Arbaz starts at Étang-Long in the Mayens d’Arbaz. From there, it follows the Bisse de Bitailla to the Réservoir des Évouettes. Trail conditions can change; check them before setting off. The Chemin du Musée passes through Arbaz and Ayent and runs along the bisses of the Anzère region. It is accessible year-round, although temporary closures may occur.
Near the Mayens d’Arbaz, the Bisse d’Ayent crosses the Bitailla, also known as the «bisse taillé». Those interested in the bisses and their paths will find a direct connection here between two named waterways. Winter walking trails and snowshoe paths offer a different way to explore the area on foot from routes along the bisses.
Climbing and views
Arbaz’s climbing wall is 40 metres high and made of dolomitic limestone. Its three sectors have a total of 42 routes, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. The south-facing wall is at an altitude of 1,100 metres and can be used from early in the year until the start of winter. Free parking is five minutes from the climbing wall.
The climbing area offers views across the RhĂ´ne Valley and of the Alps. Climbing is therefore a distinct activity alongside the hiking trails; Arbaz also offers numerous mountain biking routes.
Sightseeing and regional products
The Observatoire d’Arbaz-Anzère regularly holds public visits. Group visits are organised year-round on request. The basic equipment includes a 40-centimetre large telescope and a refractor. As visit arrangements and equipment details may change, it is worth checking the latest information and dates before planning a visit.
Étang Long d’Arbaz and Étang de la Tourbière form a recreational area. The ponds of Arbaz have picnic tables and grills; they store water from bisses originating in the Rawyl region and contribute to local biodiversity. At the Alpage de Tsalan d’Arbaz, visitors can sample Valais cheese made on site, Sérac and homemade products.
Find accommodation to suit your stay
Arbaz has preserved old, typical houses; a reference dating from 1338 names the place as «arba». If you are looking for a hotel or other accommodation in Arbaz, first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: hiking trails and bisses, climbing, sightseeing or regional products. This will help you tailor your search to your travel plans and check the location and facilities for each individual listing.
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Go to the main travel overview: Sion.
