The Val d’Anniviers isn’t just another spot on the map of the Swiss Alps; it’s a valley that holds onto its history with a quiet confidence. Tucked away in the Valais region, it’s a collection of authentic villages, each with its own character, linked by a shared passion for the mountains.
For visitors, this means you get more than a ski resort—you get an experience that feels both adventurous and genuinely Swiss. While the skiing is phenomenal, the valley offers so much more, making it a perfect destination for families, adventurers, and anyone looking to connect with nature.
From the sun-darkened timber of ancient chalets to the vast, silent expanses of a snow-covered trail, there are countless ways to create lasting memories here. The valley invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and find your own pace.
Whether you’re planning a family ski vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, understanding all the things to do in Val d’Anniviers will help you craft the perfect trip.
The heart of the valley: Grimentz and Zinal ski area
The main hubs of activity in the winter are Grimentz and Zinal. These two villages, connected by a spectacular cable car, form a single ski area that offers an incredible variety of terrain.
You’ll find wide, gentle slopes perfect for those just starting their ski journey, as well as challenging reds and blacks for more seasoned skiers. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, with iconic peaks like the Weisshorn and the Matterhorn visible on clear days.
What we love about this area is its uncrowded feel. You spend more time skiing and less time in lift lines, which is especially great for families. It’s a place where you can really focus on your technique and enjoy the mountain.
The connection between the two villages means you can have breakfast in Grimentz, ski over to Zinal for lunch at a mountain restaurant, and be back in time for après-ski without ever feeling rushed. It’s this seamless experience that makes skiing here so special.
Step back in time in the Grimentz old village
One of the most captivating experiences in the valley doesn’t involve skis at all. A walk through the Grimentz old village is like stepping into a postcard from another era.
The village center is a preserved collection of traditional “raccards” and “mazots”—grain stores and barns built from dark, sun-scorched larch wood. Many of these buildings date back to the 15th century and are still standing strong, adorned in the summer with famously bright red geraniums.
As you wander the narrow, cobblestone-like paths, you’ll notice the intricate details of the woodwork and the quiet hum of village life. The “Maison Bourgeoisiale,” a communal house from 1550, is a focal point, and you can even visit the old glacier wine cellar, where a unique wine is aged for years. Exploring the old village is a perfect activity for a rest day or a peaceful afternoon, offering a real sense of the valley’s deep-rooted history and culture.
Beyond the skis: Winter hiking and snowshoeing adventures
The magic of Val d’Anniviers in winter isn’t confined to the ski slopes. The valley offers an extensive network of trails for those who prefer to explore the snowy landscape on foot. This is where you can find true tranquility, away from the lifts and pistes, surrounded only by the soft crunch of snow under your boots.
Discover incredible winter hiking in Val d’Anniviers
There are numerous marked and prepared trails for winter hiking in Val d’Anniviers. These paths are groomed, making them accessible even without special equipment—just a good pair of waterproof winter boots will do. They wind through silent forests and across sun-drenched plateaus and offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
A popular route is the path from Grimentz up towards the Bendolla mid-station, which offers a gentle climb with rewarding views. Another beautiful option is the riverside walk between Zinal and the tiny hamlet of Mottec.
These walks are ideal for families with children or anyone looking for a low-impact way to enjoy the mountain scenery. It’s an opportunity to notice the smaller details: animal tracks in the snow, the patterns of frost on tree branches, and the deep blue of the winter sky.
The quiet thrill of snowshoeing in Zinal
For a different kind of adventure, strapping on a pair of snowshoes opens up a whole new world. Snowshoeing in Zinal is particularly rewarding, as the area at the end of the valley (the “fond de la vallée”) is relatively flat and incredibly scenic, surrounded by an amphitheater of high peaks. Snowshoeing allows you to venture off the beaten path and into deep, untouched powder, experiencing a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature.
There are marked snowshoe trails, or you can hire a guide to take you to more remote spots. A guided trip can also be a great way to learn about the local flora and fauna. Imagine hiking through a hushed forest, the only sound being your breathing and the rhythmic swoosh of your snowshoes, before emerging into a clearing with a spectacular view of the Zinalrothorn. It’s an unforgettable experience.
A breathtaking journey into the Zinal glacier caves
One of the most unique and awe-inspiring activities in the region is a visit to the Zinal glacier caves. Each year, as the glacier shifts and moves, guides find or carve a path into its heart, revealing a surreal world of translucent blue ice.
Walking inside a glacier is a truly humbling experience. The light filters through the dense ice in shades of blue you’ve never seen before, and the silence is absolute.
This is not an activity you can do on your own. Access to the caves is strictly with a certified mountain guide who understands the glacier’s behavior and ensures everyone’s safety.
The trip usually involves a hike or snowshoe trek to the glacier’s edge, followed by the guided exploration of the ice grotto. It’s an adventure that requires a bit of physical effort, but the reward is a memory that will stay with you forever. Bookings are necessary and should be made well in advance, as this is a very popular excursion.
Fueling your adventure: The best Val d’Anniviers restaurants
A day exploring the alpine terrain works up a serious appetite, and fortunately, Val d’Anniviers restaurants are more than up to the task. The local cuisine is hearty, traditional, and deeply satisfying, revolving around the region’s fantastic cheeses and cured meats.
You’ll find everything from cozy mountain huts serving simple lunches with a view to refined establishments in the villages offering a gastronomic twist on alpine classics.
A taste of the Valais: Local specialties
No trip to this valley is complete without trying these iconic dishes:
- Raclette: The real deal. A half-wheel of local cheese is melted by a fire or grill, and the molten layer is scraped onto your plate. It’s typically served with potatoes, gherkins, and pickled onions.
- Fondue Moitié-Moitié: A bubbling pot of melted cheese (typically Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois) into which you dip chunks of bread. The ultimate social meal.
- Croûte au Fromage: A slice of bread soaked in white wine, topped with a generous mound of cheese, and baked until golden and bubbly. It is often topped with a fried egg.
- Assiette Valaisanne: A rustic platter of local dried meats (like Viande Séchée) and alpine cheeses. Perfect for a light lunch or a shared appetizer.
Dining experiences at a glance
| Type of Restaurant | Typical Vibe | Best For | Must-Try Dish |
| Mountain Hut (Cabane) | Rustic, casual, sunny terraces | A quick, energy-boosting lunch on the slopes | Rösti with sausage or Croûte au Fromage |
| Village Auberge | Cozy, traditional, family-run | An authentic, lingering dinner experience | Raclette or Cheese Fondue |
| Fine Dining | Elegant, modern, creative | A special occasion or a gourmet treat | Chef’s tasting menu with local ingredients |
Here are some of the most beloved spots to refuel after your adventure:
1. Chez Florioz (Grimentz)
Located right on the slopes, this is the ultimate spot for a lively lunch or après-ski. Known for its rock-n-roll vibe, hearty burgers, and excellent pasta, it offers a fun atmosphere with stunning views of the mountain.
2. Restaurant de Moiry (Grimentz)
For a truly traditional experience, look no further. Famous for its wood-fired grill and game meat (in season), this family-run institution is also one of the best places to enjoy a classic Raclette in a cozy, chalet-style setting.
3. Hotel Weisshorn (St-Luc)
Perched high above the valley (accessible by hike or snowshoe), this historic hotel offers not just food, but an experience. Their blueberry tart is legendary, and the panoramic terrace offers one of the best views in the entire Swiss Alps.
4. La Ferme (Zinal)
A charming, rustic restaurant that feels like stepping into a local’s home. It is renowned for its warm atmosphere and excellent meat dishes cooked over an open fire. It’s a favorite among hikers and climbers returning from the Zinal glacier.
5. Le Chalet (St-Luc)
Situated in the heart of the village, Le Chalet offers a perfect mix of Swiss classics and refined cuisine. It is a fantastic option if you are looking for a quieter, more intimate dinner with a great wine selection.
Activities for the whole family to enjoy
Val d’Anniviers is an exceptional destination for families. The atmosphere is relaxed, the scale is manageable, and there’s a strong focus on creating a fun environment for all ages. We see it every day at Bespoke Snowsport: the pure joy on a child’s face when they link their first turns or the pride of a family skiing a run together for the first time.
Beyond skiing, there are plenty of other things to keep everyone entertained:
- Tobogganing: Grimentz has a fantastic 4 km toboggan run from the Bendolla mid-station back down to the village. It’s a thrilling ride for kids and adults alike.
- Ice skating: Many of the villages, including Grimentz and Zinal, have natural outdoor ice rinks. It’s a classic winter pastime and a great way to spend an afternoon.
- Swimming pools: Zinal has an indoor swimming pool, which is a perfect backup plan for a day with bad weather or for relaxing tired muscles after a few days on the slopes.
- Stargazing: The François-Xavier Bagnoud Observatory in St-Luc offers public viewings. The clear mountain air and lack of light pollution make for spectacular views of the night sky.
Creating shared experiences is what family vacations are all about. Whether it’s learning to ski together, having a snowball fight, or enjoying a hot chocolate on a sunny terrace, these are the moments that count. We specialize in crafting lessons and experiences that cater to the whole family, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, has fun, and improves at their own pace.
For the thrill-seekers: Off-piste and freeriding
For advanced skiers and snowboarders, the Val d’Anniviers is a hidden gem for freeriding. The high altitude and north-facing slopes often mean excellent snow quality, and the terrain offers endless possibilities, from open powder fields to steep couloirs. The area around Zinal and the Gardes de Bordon are particularly well-known for its off-piste routes.
However, venturing off-piste comes with serious risks. The mountain environment is unpredictable, with dangers like avalanches, crevasses, and changing weather conditions.
It is absolutely vital to be equipped with the proper safety gear (transceiver, shovel, and probe) and, more importantly, the knowledge to use it. The best and safest way to explore the backcountry is with a qualified local guide.
A guide will not only keep you safe but will also know where to find the best snow based on the recent conditions, ensuring you have an incredible and safe day out.
Planning your visit: Practical tips for Val d’Anniviers
A little planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are a few practical tips to help you get organized.
Getting to and around the valley
The easiest way to reach Val d’Anniviers is by flying into Geneva (GVA) or Zurich (ZRH) and then taking a train to Sierre. From Sierre, a regular PostBus service runs up the valley to all the main villages. The bus ride itself is an adventure, with switchback roads offering dramatic views. Once in the valley, the PostBus network connects all the villages, and it’s free to use with your ski pass.
Best time to visit
The winter season typically runs from mid-December to mid-April. Each part of the season has its own charm.
| Period | What to expect | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| December-January | Cold temperatures, festive atmosphere, excellent snow conditions. | Holiday trips and powder seekers. |
| February | Peak season, often the best snow depth, can be busier due to school holidays. | Families who are tied to school schedules. |
| March | Longer, sunnier days, great snow conditions, perfect for terrace lunches. | Skiers who love sunshine and great snow (spring skiing). |
| April | Warmer “spring skiing” conditions, softer snow in the afternoons, and quieter slopes. | Enjoying the last of the season in a relaxed atmosphere. |
The Magic Pass
If you’re planning on skiing for more than a week or visiting multiple resorts in the region, look into the Magic Pass. It’s a seasonal pass that offers access to dozens of resorts in the Valais and surrounding cantons. It can offer excellent value if purchased early (usually in the spring before the season).
The Val d’Anniviers is a place that captures the hearts of those who visit. It’s a valley that offers both high-adrenaline adventure and quiet moments of reflection. It’s where you can challenge yourself on a steep slope in the morning and wander through a 500-year-old village in the afternoon.
Whether you’re clipping into skis for the first time, helping your children discover the magic of snow, or looking to create a family adventure that everyone will remember for years to come, we’re here to help you make the most of this incredible valley.
Let’s explore the slopes of Grimentz-Zinal together and help you find the best in yourself. You can start your journey with us at Bespoke Snowsport, where we create personalized experiences for every skier.