In the bilingual Swiss canton of Valais, the mountains rule. For the modern man who thinks he can bend the world to his will, this is sometimes difficult. For the locals, going along with the laws of the high mountains is a way of life. A matter of adjusting and enjoying as soon as nature unexpectedly offers its beauty. And that could happen at any time.

Of course the mountain world is beautiful when the sun is shining and the snow crystals are sparkling, but perhaps I even prefer thick clouds gliding along the jagged peaks, thick flakes lovingly covering all the folds in the landscape or a blizzard you have to fight yourself through on the way up.

During our visit to Saas-Fee, the avalanche danger was so great that we had to cancel our ski trip to the Allalinhorn. Pity? Yes, very briefly. But in return was a winter landscape covered from head to toe in fresh snow. And in that dream setting, we made an alternative, safer trek to a huge mountain lake for an unforgettable moment. It was so quiet you could hear the mountains breathing.

Mountains. Lots of high mountains. Between the Great St. Bernard Pass in the east and the Simplon Pass in the west of Valais are 45 peaks above 4,000 meters in elevation! In that landscape, you become humble and small. And grateful. Because how beautiful is it to see those peaks up close? Between the glaciers of Saas-Fee or on the smugglers’ trails on the flanks of Les Dents du Midi.

Out into the mountains. On skis, touring skis, hiking boots, snowshoes. On foot to the top or by elevator. Dine elaborately on a terrace with prime views or picnic with a mini-raclette in the great outdoors. It doesn’t matter. Pick your own way and enjoy the beauty that the mountain world of Valais gives you!

Hans Avontuur
Professional traveler and travel journalist