Switzerland : Valais

Mountain Biking the Valais Matterhorn Region

Trip code: C07VL

Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 4
Challenging

Headwater
Navigation App

Optional
e-bike hire

SUMMARY

  • Venture into the alpine homeland of the majestic Matterhorn
  • Follow exceptional mountain biking trails down the flanks of the Rhone and Nanztal Valleys
  • Unwind in Leukerbad, renowned for its historical thermal spa and springs

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike fitting at the start of your holiday
  • Headwater navigation app
  • Bike hire included
  • Luggage transfers between hotels

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Home to the infamous Matterhorn, Valais in Switzerland is a land full of contrasts. From majestic mountains at 4,000m high and fascinating glaciers, to unspoilt valleys and sprawling vineyards, there's something for every adventure seeker to relish on this trip. Accounting for almost 40% of Switzerland's wine production, Valais is a true paradise for wine lovers.

This sun-kissed valley enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year which bathes the mountains and meadows in a magnificent light. Spectacular mountain bike trails meander over mountain slopes and through speckled forests as you delight in the awe that Valais has to offer you.

You'll be welcomed each night by traditional alpine hospitality and delicious regional food at our 3* and 4* hotels. Most of your accommodations are situated in beautiful mountain villages and feature a wellness centre for you to relax in after your days mountain biking.

Terrain

Ride fantastic single trails on high quality mountain bikes or mountain e-bikes.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Crans-Montana

The two neighbouring resorts of Crans and Montana sit at 1,500m on a sun-drenched plateau high above the Rhone Valley. These twin towns have an impressive view of mountain peaks from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc; the perfect place to begin your Valais voyage.

You stay at Hotel Valaisia.

hotel details

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Hotel Valaisia, Crans Montana

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Benefiting from a quiet location next to the Grand Signal-Bella Lui cable car station, this lovely hotel is just 5 minutes from the centre of Crans Montana. The wellness centre features a 33°c salt spa, sauna, massage, and fitness room. In the summer months, you can enjoy a heated swimming pool and sunbathing area in addition to a terrace and garden. The hotel restaurant serves a breakfast buffet and a seasonal four-course menu in the evening.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 2: Crans Montana to Leukerbad (28km/17.4mi)

Begin your first ride with a steady climb to Cabane de la Tiéche, a small alpine cabin which is sometimes open for local food and drinks. From here, you’ll ride past stunning Alps as you descend into Varen through the delightful vineyards and vines of the Rhône valley before reaching Leuk. Once in Leuk, the bus will take you to Leukerbad, known for the largest alpine thermal spa in Europe.

You stay at Hotel Quellenhof.

hotel details

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Hotel Quellenhof, Leukerbad

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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TV
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Located on the spa promenade of Leukerbad, this hotel is conveniently set next to the famous Alpentherme spa and the Torrentbahn cable car station. With ten relaxing baths and a wide range of wellness treatments, Leukerbad Therme is the largest thermal spa in the entire alpine region. The hotel restaurant serves delicious regional dishes, after which you can enjoy the cosy fireside bar.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 3: Leukerbad to Unterbach (33km/20.5mi)

Take a short cable car up to Rinderhütte where one of the most beautiful trails in Switzerland awaits you. Upon reaching Erschmatt, you’ll follow the trail down into the picturesque Rhône valley surrounded by an extraordinary mountain panorama. Once you arrive in Raron, you’ll take the cable car to the next town up in Unterbäch.

You stay at Hotel Alpenhof.

hotel details

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Hotel Alpenhof, Unterbäch

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Sat almost 1,200m above sea level, this relaxing hotel is right next to Raron gondola station and the chair lift station. You can relax in the sauna or enjoy an aperitif before dinner at the hotel bar. Enjoy lovely mountain views from the hotel restaurant or on the cosy sun terrace as a breakfast buffet and regional evening meals are served.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 4: Unterbach to Grachen (33km/20.5mi)

From Unterbach, head up to Brandalp where you'll journey to Moosalp along clear trails. Here you can take a moment to appreciate the remarkable landscapes and even enjoy the legendary Moosalp restaurant cream cake! After your well-deserved break, begin your descent to the Mattertal via the mountain village of Torbel and Stalden valley. The stunning Matterhorn trail will guide you up through the Mattertal and into St. Niklaus where a bus will take you to Grachen.

You stay at Hotel Hannigalp.

hotel details

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Hotel Hannigalp, Grächen

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Around 400m from the village centre, this delightful hotel enjoys a peaceful location in the car-free area of Grächen. Featuring an indoor pool and hot tub, their wellness centre also boasts a sauna, whirlpool, ice fountain, and a relaxation area with a fireplace. There is also a tennis court and ping-pong table available to guests. The restaurant serves delicious Swiss and international cuisine.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 5: Grachen to Brig (49km/30.4mi)

Today brings you incredible mountain and glacier views as you ride along both the Mattsand Enduro Trail and the Matterhorn Valley Trail. You’ll take a cable car up to Gspon where a beautiful trail leads through the Sädol forest to the Gibidumpass. From here, you’ll follow a lovely leisurely trail down into the wild Nanztal valley where you can take a short break at Alp Nidristi. Finish your day in Brig, an alpine town nestled at the foot of Simplon Pass which leads to the Italian border.

You stay at Hotel Stockalperhof.

hotel details

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Hotel Stockalperhof, Brig

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Named after Stockalper Castle, this boutique hotel offers a unique historical ambience. Located right in the centre of Brig with views to the north of Brig’s old town and the Belalp mountain range, this distinctive hotel is just 400m from the train station. With an Italian influence, there’s plenty of delicious dishes to choose from at the hotel restaurant.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 6: Brig to St Luc (41km/25.5mi)

Take the train and cable car from Brig to reach your starting point in Lauchernalp. Today takes you to the magical Lotschental valley with stunning views of Bietschhorn. Descend through alpine forest, passing charming villages before reaching Leuk with its striking castle. Continue through the wine-growing villages of Varen and Salgesch before arriving in Sierre and taking a bus to St Luc.

You stay at Hotel Le Beausite.

hotel details

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Hotel Le Beausite, St Luc

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Tea/coffee


This family-run hotel boasts uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn, set in a lovely sunny location and close to a bus stop. There is a private spa centre by appointment only which includes a jacuzzi with breathtaking Matterhorn views. The hotel restaurant offers a generous selection of dishes made with fresh produce and a raclette night if you’re lucky enough to stay on a Friday.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 7: St Luc to Grimentz (32km/19.9mi)

This is a very special end to your week in Valais! Take the funicular up to Tignousa where you'll head high above the Val d'Anniviers to Zinal surrounded by the highest mountains in the Alps. The cable car takes you to almost 2,700m to Sorebois where it's all downhill as you whizz past Lac de Moiry reservoir to the small mountain village of Grimentz.

You stay at Hotel Alpina.

hotel details

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Hotel Alpina, Grimentz

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

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Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
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This lodge style hotel has the authentic charm of a traditional Swiss chalet. Located close to the ski lifts in the peaceful village of Grimentz, there’s a fantastic wellness area with sauna and jacuzzi for you to relax in. Regional and Italian dishes are served in the hotel restaurant along with homemade gourmet desserts.

Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.

Day 8: Leave Grimentz

Enjoy a relaxing morning in the comfort of your beautiful hotel before departing for home.

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE DATE

Show prices including flights and onward rail?  

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £276.

These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £276.

OPTIONAL UPGRADES
  • Flights from Gatwick to Zurich with EasyJet, then onward rail to the region.
  • Other flights, including regional departures
  • Alternative flights, including regional departures
  • Extra legroom seats available
  • Electric bikes
  • Upgrade to mountain e-bikes
TRAVEL DETAILS

Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.

Air-rail prices include our standard flights, onward rail and station transfers
Out: EasyJet London Gatwick to Zurich, then rail Zurich Airport to Crans-Montana Gare and taxi to first hotel (5 minutes - payable locally).

Return: Taxi from last hotel to bus stop (5 minutes - payable locally), then bus from Grimentz to Sierre (payable locally). Rail Sierre to Zurich Airport, then EasyJet Zurich to London Gatwick.

Flight inclusive package includes rail tickets from Zurich airport to Crans-Montana and from Grimentz to Zurich airport, plus a Swiss Half Fare Card (50% off all public transportation in Switzerland, including most mountain railroads; valid for one month).

Extra legroom seats are available on request.

Alternative Air Travel
Alternative flights, onward rail to your holiday area, and connecting private transfers can be arranged from most UK airports. If you would like to use one of the many 'low cost' airlines, we can book these on your behalf. We can also book UK shuttles to connect with your onward flight, please call for details and prices.

Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).

To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we're open from 9am today) or email sales@headwater.com

Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.

REVIEWS

Excellent service- Lauren listened to exactly what I was looking for and made some very helpful suggestions. The service could not have been better

18 May 2024

Andrew was very helpful and clear . My queries receieved very prompt responses

Elizabeth Mcluckie, 1 Nov 2023

Efficient, responsive and friendly service

28 Jul 2023

Megan is excellent

Karen Trogstad, 16 Jul 2023


Self-guided cycling

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 4
Challenging

Headwater
Navigation App

Optional
e-bike hire

7 nights from £2519

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199

 

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