At its southern end, the Val d’Hérens splits into two branches: the Ferpècle valley and the Arolla valley, former mountain pastures that have become popular destinations for hiking and mountaineering. Arolla, the most famous destination, isn’t really a village; it’s simply the last hamlet in the valley and the terminus of the post bus route, where a few hotels and restaurants are clustered.

Situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres, Arolla has lent its name to a high-altitude white pine that grows only in the Alps and the Carpathians. It is a magnificent region for skiing in winter and hiking in summer at the foot of wild glaciers. It is also a key stop on routes such as the Chamonix–Zermatt Haute Route or the Tour du Cervin.

In the past, it was simply an area of mountain pastures, and it was only between 1860 and 1910 that tourism began to develop with the influx of the first mountaineers seeking to climb the surrounding high peaks: Mont Collon (3,636 metres), the Aiguilles Rouges d’Arolla (3,644 metres), Aiguille de la Tsa (3,667 m), Pigne d’Arolla (3,781 m), etc.

At that time, there were still only mule tracks. The access road only became passable by motor vehicles in 1948 and was not tarmacked until 1965, which enabled the construction of the first ski lifts as early as 1967. Nowadays, the resort’s infrastructure remains limited and the ski area is relatively uncrowded, even though the slopes offer a direct view of the glaciers located in the immediate vicinity.

During the summer season, it is possible to hike along trails almost right up to the foot of the glaciers, but this is, of course, high-mountain hiking, not recommended for city dwellers… Hiring a guide is, moreover, essential for venturing into the most dangerous areas.

However, you don’t need to be a keen sports enthusiast to visit Arolla. The view of the valley and the mountains from the restaurant terraces is worth the trip in itself!

Useful links

Swiss Canton of Valais - Wikipedia