시에르‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪20‬개의 호수

I did this hike in early May 2024, just a few days after the ski season was over and the slopes had closed. The valley was completely deserted and it felt magical! The peaks were still covered in snow, but the first signs of spring were beckoning. On the final stretch to Lac d'Arpitetta, I was wading through snow up to my knees. Without proper gear I couldn’t get any farther than the small lake. The view on that crystal-clear spring day was absolutely fantastic! Check the picture I uploaded with all the peak names added.

Beautiful view on the other side if rhône valley. On suisse national day, 1st of august, they often do a water/laser show here.

A beautiful area close to the glacier

The impressive view of the summit parade from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc and a particularly diverse range of activities throughout the year are the assets of the two twin towns. Five idyllic swimming lakes, spicy-smelling mountain forests, the extensive network of hiking trails or a cozy fondue evening in a rustic restaurant are examples of family-friendly, nature-oriented Crans-Montana. With 177 kilometers of marked trails, two downhill routes and the Kona bike park, the mountain biking offer in Crans Montana is excellent. The place is a popular starting point for training rides for cyclists.

The lake is worth a visit in summer and winter. In the waterfront cafes you can relax after a tiring climb and enjoy a hot soup in winter or a refreshing drink in summer.

The bike ride around the lake is very pleasant, there is a path and you can enjoy the view of the lake itself, the forest and the surrounding mountains. Entrance is free and you can also swim in the lake.

The climb to the village of Villa is very beautiful; you pass many historic residential buildings. Overall, it's a manageable distance for the day's walk from Moiry Dam and return via this location.

Lake Arpitettaz is a small mountain lake on the road to Cabane d’Arpitettaz. If you don't want to go to the Cabin, you can also make a loop to return to Zinal via the Roc de la Vache from the Lake. However, there is a trick to getting to Lac d’Arpitettaz from Zinal. If you stay on the right bank of the river, you will have to take a difficult and steep passage called “Pas du Chasseur” where you will have to hang on to chains for part of the way. This is not ideal, especially if you have young children. Instead, stay on the left bank of the river towards the Cabane du Petit Mountet and from there follow the direction of Lac d'Arpitettaz. You will cross the river on a pretty modern bridge. This will add an extra 10 minutes to your hike but above all you will have peace of mind and be able to see the Zinal Waterfall. It's really worth the detour.