A beautiful Sunday afternoon family hike to take in the views over the Rhone Valley and be up close to the exquisite Dents du Midi. The first peak of Dent de Valerette is very accessible to all levels and for those who want a challenge, there is the possibility to continue to Dent de Valère where you’ll have to scramble up. And don’t forget a snack, apero or even dinner to enjoy outside or in the the free hut dominating the valley.
Level: T2
Elevation gain: 824 m
Distance: 7,7 km
Time required: 3.45 hours round trip
Public transport: no
The gem: free hut after Dent de Valerette with panoramic views on the Dents du Midi
Depart from: parking Auberge de Chindonne
Starting from the parking in the forest just before the Auberge de Chindonne, follow the trail on the right up into the forest. Don’t be relieved to see the wider (and flatter) path as you’ll be continuing straight up into the flowery field following the zig-zagging path all the way up. Enjoy the first half in the forest because afterwards there will be no more trees. After around 400m elevation gain, you’ll reach the first summit, Dent de Valerette, where you can take in the 360 degree views over the Valais. If you continue the trail for a few hundred meters, you’ll find a small hut with breathtaking views of the dominating Dents du Midi where you can enjoy a cup of tee or make a fire if it gets cold.
If you’re not tired yet and can use an additional challenge, I would strongly recommend making your way up to the next summit, Dent de Valère, following the ridge the whole way up. You’ll enjoy a small descent before attacking the steepest part of the hike to the top. Be cautious here and don’t be afraid to use your hands to get up the many rocks lining the path. On both sides of the steep ridge, you can spot cows, sheeps and goats enjoying the fresh mountain air just like you. Having reached the top, be sure to take in all the views and say hi to the local paragliders that may be observing you from above. To go back down, simply follow the path in the opposite direction or take a path that loops the summit to join the previous one.
For the ultimate pros, if you still want more, there is the option to keep walking the ridge all the way to the Refuge de Chain from where you can physically touch the Dents du Midi.
- Views 90%
- Challenge 60%
- Dinner spot 100%
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