Savièse lies on a sunny plateau above Sion. Its extensive terraced wine-growing landscape, historic cultural sites and trails through the countryside give the area many facets. When planning your visit, you can focus on different experiences: views over the Rhône Valley, history, seasonal theatre programmes and culinary traditions.

Wine Country and Views

From a viewpoint, a 360-degree panorama opens up over the Rhône Valley. The viewpoint is known for its microclimate and dry grasslands; rare plants of national significance grow on the hill. Colline de la Soie is protected by the Confederation because of its important dry grassland. The canton protects it for its archaeological and historical significance.

The Chemin botanique de la Soie showcases the region’s main shrubs along the former course of the Bisse de la Couluirette. The Prabé is also a geographical landmark: the mountain lies in the upper part of the municipality of Savièse and reaches an elevation of 2,042 metres. Scenic hiking trails criss-cross the landscape.

Culture, History and the Year’s Calendar

In the centre of St-Germain stands the Maison de la Culture, a historic building. Three floors are devoted exclusively to changing exhibitions; the building’s current use may change. The Musée de la Société des Costumes et Patois displays more than 1,000 objects, tools and items of clothing from Savièse dating from 1850 to 1950.

The parish church of St-Germain also tells the story of different eras: it dates back to the 12th century and combines several architectural styles. After being destroyed in 1475, it was rebuilt. During a renovation in 1934, Ernest Biéler created a religious art ensemble there for the first time.

The Château de la Soie was built in 1219 by Bishop Landri de Mont. Until 1375, it was the preferred summer residence of the bishops of Sion. During the Raron Wars, the fortress was plundered and burned down in 1417. These dates provide a clear timeline for the history of the building.

Since opening in November 1999, the Le Baladin theatre has offered a varied programme in Savièse. Performances change seasonally; check the schedule for your travel dates. The theatre auditorium has 480 seats. If this capacity is important for your plans, check the venue’s current information.

Recurring festivals also shape the year. The Corpus Christi celebration brings together up to 1,000 worshippers each year, including almost 400 participants in costume. The annual Carnaval de Savièse includes a Sunday parade in which schools, various associations and youth groups take an active part. Carnival dates vary from year to year; check the events calendar against your travel dates.

Trails and Activities

The Torrent-Neuf, also known as the Bisse de Savièse, carried water from the Morge Valley to the slopes of Savièse. It was built between 1430 and 1448. The Torrent-Neuf trail offers views of the remains of the former bisse and of suspension bridges. At the start of the route by the Chapelle Ste-Marguerite, there is an information stand and the Refuge des Voisseurs snack bar. Halfway along the trail is the Chalet de Brac snack bar. Another path leads from the Chapelle Ste-Marguerite to the Branlires cliff face.

The ascent to the Prabé starts at Mayens de la Zour on Route de Pragier-Dessus and takes about two hours. Shortly before the summit, there is a hut where you can picnic. As route information may change, check it before setting off.

For a different kind of activity, the Savièse pump track is located next to the St-Germain football pitch. It offers numerous options, with turns up to 1.30 metres high. In a large, landscaped area, parents can comfortably watch children ride.

Savièse Specialities

Flon de Savièse is part of Switzerland’s culinary heritage. This fruit tart has a sweet shortcrust pastry layer beneath and above the fruit. In Drône, local bread is also baked in the communal oven; brioche, wheat and rye loaves are prepared. After the Stations of the Cross, members of the society hand out small loaves and serve wine from the society’s vineyard. The exact participation requirements for these recurring traditions may vary.

Discover more destinations: Chandolin, Mayens-De-La-Zour, Sion, Saint-Léonard Vs, Veysonnaz, Arbaz, Grimisuat.

Return to the main travel overview: Sion.