Nendaz: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
In the heart of the largest ski area in Switzerland, Nendaz is situated at an altitude of 1,252 meters, where 400 km of slopes await you. 250 km of well-marked hiking trails lead through the natural paradise. Ambitious individuals can challenge themselves on 18 trail running routes. Families choose Nendaz as a holiday destination because of the extensive holiday program with the mascot Cheesy.
Table of contents
Nendaz - Must-see attractions
Tracouet Lake
The Lac de Tracouet, also known as Lac Noir or Black Lake due to its dark color, has a unique ecosystem. This includes not only extraordinary plants but also amphibians like alpine newts and grass frogs, which can be observed during an excursion. Majestically overlooking the mountain lake is the peak Dent de Nendaz, a scenic hiking destination in the 4 Vallées region. In the nearby area, you can discover other natural sites, including the larch forest near Balavaux, whose trees are among the most powerful in Europe.
Mount Fort
Mont Fort rises between the winter sports resorts of Verbier and Nendaz. It can be reached from both places by cable car. The last section from the Col de Gentianes is covered by aerial cableway. More than 50 mountain peaks can be seen from the top of Mont Fort, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. In the igloo on Mont Fort, be sure to try a Swiss-Rock coffee with apricot brandy and whipped cream.
Middle Bisse
A hike along the Bisse du Milieu near Nendaz is an unforgettable experience. The historic irrigation channel, built in the 15th century, stretches over a charming route through the Alps. During the hike, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The path follows the waterway, which is surrounded by green forests and alpine meadows. It is a peaceful journey through nature that also offers historical insights. Don't forget to bring water and snacks to fully enjoy this idyllic experience.
Japanese Garden
Stones, moss, water, and trees: These are the four elements that make up a Japanese garden. Near Nendaz, not far from the Col des Gentianes, they naturally come together. You start your ascent to the Japanese Garden in Siviez. Follow the marked path uphill to Tortin/Lac de Cleuson. At the junction to Lac de Cleuson, continue on the path to Tortin. Through the charming landscape of the Japanese Garden, a cheerful babbling brook winds its way.
Siviez
Located at the very end of the Nendaz valley floor, Siviez is a popular excursion destination and starting point for numerous hikes. On one side, there is access to the winter sports resorts of Veysonnaz and Thyon, while on the other side, you can reach the Val de Bagnes. From Siviez, you can take the cable car to Mont Fort, the highest mountain of the 4 Vallées. The hike to the Japanese Garden starts in Siviez. In summer, the famous Eringer cows graze on the lush green mountain slopes of Siviez.
Nendaz Museum Nînd'Art
The cultural center Nînd’Art offers space for contemporary art on two floors and around 160 square meters, while also providing fascinating insights into the village life of the past. Photos and video recordings in the multimedia room bring you closer to the cultural heritage of Nendaz. In the library area of the cultural center, you will find numerous books on the history of Nendaz, which is located on a plateau above the Rhône plain in the ski and hiking area 4 Vallées. During a walk through Haute-Nendaz, you will come across quaint hay barns and typical Valais barns.
Nendaz - Secret spots
Sculpture Trail of Nendaz
Numerous legends surround Nendaz in the Valais Alps. On the 2.6 km long sculpture trail, which leads from Nendaz through the village part of Haute-Nendaz and into the forest, you can admire the sculptures that depict these myths and legends. The hike takes about 45 minutes.
Bleusy Chapel
The Chapelle de Bleusy, a picturesque chapel near Nendaz in Valais, offers hikers and nature lovers a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by forests and overlooking the Alps, it is ideal for meditation and reflection. Its simplicity and location make it a hidden gem for those seeking peace in nature. A must for hikers and those seeking tranquility.
Bisse of Chervé
The Bisse de Chervé near Nendaz in the Valais Alps runs at an altitude of around 2,200 m and is thus the highest irrigation channel in the region. It is a popular hiking route that begins at the Combatseline mountain station. Highlights of the route include the turquoise Lac de Cleuson.
Printse Gorge
The Printse flows from Lac de Cleuson to Nendaz in the Valais Alps. The 15 km long mountain stream has carved deeply into the rocks over the millennia. At Cor, the Printse Gorge is particularly deep and impressive. Several irrigation channels branch off on both sides.
Nendaz - In 3 days
Day 1
Unpack your suitcases, relax a bit from the journey, and then set off on a first exploration of Nendaz. Your holiday resort in the midst of the Valais Alps invites you to stroll with its cozy village center featuring houses in typical alpine style and some small shops and restaurants. In the village center is the mountain station of the gondola up to Lac de Tracouet. Start your first mountain adventure with a ride to the romantic mountain lake. Around the small lake with its lush green shore meadows, you can enjoy wonderful walks on easy paths and let your gaze wander along the majestic mountain ranges of the Valais Alps. In the cold months, the frozen lake transforms into an adventure paradise for the whole family. Snowtubing - riding on tires - on the specially prepared snowtubing track is particularly popular with young and old.
Day 2
The second day of vacation in Nendaz is all about sporty fun. The holiday resort in Valais is especially popular as a winter sports destination. It is located in the 4 Vallées ski area, which, with its approximately 400 kilometers of slopes, is one of the largest in Switzerland. Here you will find mostly slopes with easy and medium difficulty levels, so beginners on skis or snowboards, occasional winter sports enthusiasts, and families can find their winter sports paradise around Nendaz. Extensive winter hikes in the clear and cold air and, of course, sledding with the kids complement the sporty day in the snow. In the warm season, mountain bikers are drawn to the 200 km wide MTB trail network around Nendaz. A relaxed ride with moderate difficulty level leads from Nendaz over 12 km through forests with shady larches and firs up to Pra da Dzeu. This is a sunny forest clearing, perfect for a break with a picnic and mountain views.
Day 3
Start the third day with a hike to one of the most beautiful viewpoints around Nendaz, the Japanese Garden. A small stream meanders over the alpine clearing of this natural site, which, with its rocks, colorful alpine flowers, and lush meadows, resembles the aesthetic design of a namesake Japanese garden. For hiking tours with children, themed trails like the Sculpture Trail offer variety. It measures 2.6 km in length and leads through the shady forests of Nendaz. Wooden sculptures with stories about local legends and myths provide plenty of conversation along the way. A visit to the Spa des Bisses rounds off the day with relaxation in any season. In the sauna landscape with an ice grotto and salt grotto, you can enjoy relaxing moments while little bathers have fun in the children's area with various water games. In winter, a bath in the steaming outdoor pool with a view of the snow-covered mountain peaks is an absolute highlight.