The Rhone valley and La Tzoumaz valley are renowned for their Mediterranean type climate with more than 300 sunny days a year - well above the national average. The lifts are open from early July through to end of August so you can really explore the mountains. There is a wealth of things to do; here are some suggestions
Walks and Hikes - 150 kms of pedestrian trails open the way across meadows and pastures, through forests and clearings and even up into the high mountains. Walks beside ancient watercourses will appeal to those in search of a pleasant, peaceful stroll across the flank of the mountain. Hiking maps and brochures describing the watercourses and hiking tours in Valais are available from the local tourist office.
The 2.7km Senses Trail lies at 1700 metres altitude with 12 halts along the way. It will appeal to every nature lover as it enhances the contact with nature through all the senses. Exhibitions in the Forest Centre chalets cover the wide variety of local fauna, birdlife and wolf.
Alternatively, you can walk along the ancient irrigation streams (‘bisses’) as they gently follow the contours of the mountain, or challenge yourself by hiking up into the high mountains to reach one of the mountain refuges.
Mountain biking – Mountain biking in La Tzoumaz is great fun and caters for the whole family. There are tracks for beginners and more experienced bikers. The mountain lifts open during the summer to allow effortless access to the summits. La Tzoumaz boast a brand new Bike Park with each track graded and accessible from the station of Savoleyres where the 8 seated Telecabin drops you off. There are also many singletracks on the mountains, great for all abilities. Further afield in neighbouring Verbier the purpose built downhill courses in the Kona Bike Park are great for that rush of adrenaline! Cross country aficionados will find delightful routes through a wide variety of scenery.
You can bring your own bike or rent one from the local sports shop. A guide can be arranged so you don’t miss the best descents and single-track routes.
Fishing – There is excellent trout fishing in the River Fare, at Lac des Vaux or in the Rhône. A fishing permit, costing CHF 30 per day, is compulsory and may be obtained from the Post Office or the tourist office. Children up to the age of 14 and accompanied by a parent may fish free of charge.
Paragliding - Give in to the temptation of a tandem flight and admire the magnificent view of the Alps! It is also possible to take paragliding lessons with initiation, pilot and advanced courses. There are 2 schools in the region. Information is available through La Tzoumaz Tourist office.
Tennis – A tennis court is available for only CHF 20 per hour. The La Tzoumaz Tennis Club organises a variety of tournaments throughout the summer.
Swimming - Relax in the resort’s heated indoor pool and sauna, enjoy the games area with table football, table tennis and billiards or just laze in the sun on the lawns outside.
Horse riding - Discover the beauty of the landscapes by riding. Horseriding (1 hour riding or more) can be easily arranged for beginners or experienced riders with a guide. Information and reservation at La Tzoumaz tourist office.
Golf – Valais is a natural paradise full of contrasts that has become a favourite destination for golfers from all over the world. It offers four 18-hole courses at Verbier, Sion, Crans-Montana and Loeche as well as five 9-hole tracks at Sierre, Crans-Montana, Riederalp, Matterhorn and Source du Rhône, all within easy driving.
Petanque - Several petanque bowling areas have been created in the gardens of the Beau-Site Restaurant. They are free of charge to guests. Each summer the La Tzoumaz Petanque Club organises several tournaments in collaboration with La Tzoumaz Tourist office, in which you are welcome to take part.
Wine tasting – Swiss wines are a well kept secret and often of very high standard, usually reserved for Swiss consumption. The slopes in Valais are renowned for the quality of their wines with several vineyards and viticulturists offering tasting.
Water activities -
Visit the Grand Dixence dam, it’s massive and the lake it creates is really impressive.
Just a few miles from Sion, the lakes of an old gravel pit have been transformed with sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sailing, archery, etc
Water Park - less than an hour’s drive away is Aqua Parc, Europe’s largest water park, located close to Lake Geneva. There are 15,000m2 of water facilities, including access to the lake and a private sandy beach, a 25m outdoor pool, an outdoor river and slides, beach volley and 3 separate themed areas, Captain Kid’s land, Jungle Land and Paradise Land http://www.aquaparc.ch
Thermal Baths – spend a relaxing afternoon at the thermal hot baths in Saillon, or Lavey with indoor and outdoor hot baths and swimming pools, Jacuzzis, steam rooms and saunas.
River rafting – there are excellent river rafting activities available for all levels, from children to experienced rafters, along the Rhone river. Swiss Raft have a base in Sion and can arrange all trips. http://www.swissraft.ch/en
Sailing and other water activities are available less than an hour away at Bouveret on Lake Geneva http://www.lacetmer.ch
Sion itself is an attractive medieval town with good outdoor cafes, a pedestrianised old town and plenty of high quality small shops, perfect for browsing around.
Of course, if any of the above are too much, just relax on the terrace with a book and a drink……
If this isn’t enough and you are still after more action, the resort also possesses the longest floodlit sledge run in Western Switzerland (at 11 kilometres) which passes by the chalet’s back-door. The resort is popular with families, having a small ski lift for children, a natural ice rink, and a heated swimming pool.
