Top things to do

This renowned gallery harbours a stunning art collection with works by Picasso, Cézanne and Van Gogh. The sculpture garden (with cafe and picnic area) features Henry Moore’s organic sculptures, Niki de Saint Phalle’…

Clinging to a crag above town, 800-year-old Bâtiaz Castle is worth the 15-minute uphill climb. Once there, add another 120 steps to the top of castle for far-reaching views over the surrounding vineyards and Rhône V…

Laze on chaises longues at 2112m and congratulate yourself on snagging a spot at one of Swiss Alps' hippest mountain hang-outs – a restyled 1960s cable-car station. Walk (about 1km) or order a 4WD in summer; or ski …

Don't miss this stunning art gallery with mountain peaks looming large on its dazzling mirrored facade and silver-leafed edelweiss in the Alpine rooftop garden. Inside is equally brilliant, with the gallery hosting …

Slung on a hillock opposite Château de Tourbillon is this 11th- to 13th-century château that grew up around a fortified basilica. The church interior reveals beautifully carved choir stalls, a frescoed apse and the …

Flickering candles illuminate the brick vaults of this medieval wine bar where couples dine in cosy nooks. Just as gooey is the fondue, including varieties with saffron or chanterelles. Late September to October, it…

All turreted towers and centuries-old beams, Sierre’s showpiece château rolls out a royal banquet of a raclette – taste five different types of raclette cheese (Sfr35) from the Valais, washed down with perfectly mat…

There aren't many places you can tuck into a 'medieval menu' in an 800-year-old medieval castle. À la Part des Anges is proving popular inside Château de la Bâtiaz. There's a roaring fire, local beers and wines, plu…

Its name means ‘Welcome’ in Hindi and it's always packed. Jean-Louis – a metal sculptor who creates fantastical beasts from old tools – and his wife Annick are the creative energy behind this cosy mountain cabin at …

This old winegrower’s hut on the Bisse de Clavau footpath (7.5km, 2½ hours) pairs each dish on the tempting menu with an appropriate wine. The vineyard vista is heady, punchy and out of this world.