A Dramatic and Breathtaking Spring Hike in Champery
Nestled at the edge of Switzerland, the picturesque village of Champery offers a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders Switzerland has to offer. This stunning circular hike has it all, with a dramatic path carved into the cliff, waterfalls, gorges and a graceful 55 metre long footbridge. An incredible hike to enjoy the splendour of the famous Dents du Midi. This lesser known spot is perfect to escape the crowds.
| Location | Champery, Valais |
| Start | Champéry-Village |
| End | Champéry Gare |
| Distance | 16 km |
| Ascent | 890 m |
| Decent | 897 m |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Season | Spring, Summer |
| Time | 5 h 30 mins |
Getting there
It is a simple route from Geneva with only one change. The total travel time from Geneva is just under 2.5 hours.
- Take the train from Geneva to Aigle.
- Then change to the train from Aigle directly to Champery.
The Champery-Village is a ‘stop on demand’ station so make sure to press the button inside the train after the La Cour stop.
Hike description
This hike takes in the historic Galerie Défago, offering one of the most iconic routes. The unique cliff walk offers some of the most incredible and expansive views of the Champery village. The beauty continues with dramatic gorges and cascading waterfalls. Nestled at the end of the Illiez valley, you feel like you have reached the end of the world.
The hike begins with a sharp descent down into the valley floor, where the path meets the river and gently meanders along its edge. You glimpse the snow capped mountains in the distance and the cascading water as the path winds through the forest at the rivers bank.
The path then climbs up through the forest until you meet the start of the Galerie Défago. The path follows a natural ledge carved into the cliff face for 600m. A sheer cliff drops off to one side, offering unobstructed views down to the picturesque village of Champery with its towering church tower and wooden chalets.
After passing through alpine meadows and pastures, the path enters the woods for a gentle climb. The climb is rewarded with the spectacular souffle waterfall. Sitting opposite the thundering waterfall offers a perfect spot for a snack before continuing the climb.
Hikers are rewarded as the forest opens up to a dramatic wall of mountain peaks, with the Dents Blanche and Dent du Midi in view. You soon come to the passerelle belle-etoile footbridge, delicately connecting the Rossétan and Bonaveau alpine pastures above the Sauflaz River Gorge 25 m below.
Nestled between mountain peaks at the end of the Illiez valley, the only evidence of human activity is the Refuge de Bonveau, an idyllic mountain hut perfect for a beverage in the summer months.
Take in the last of the breathtaking views before the path winds back down through the towering pine tree to join the village.
The route
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