In This Swiss Valley You Feel Like You’re In Canada

A 30-minute walk from the popular resort of Champex-Lac in south-west Valais. At less than 200m altitude, and you’re already weighing yourself in the North American wilderness.

The area around the picturesque Val d’Arpete is nicknamed “Little Canada”. Not only do cloucher d’arpet grow here, but also the tallest trees in the country.

It is also the magnificent pine trees, larches, rushing brooks and the gorgeous mountain backdrop that shape the image of the high valley.

At the end of it is the Relais d’Arpete. This is a hilltop inn with a history of nearly a hundred years and is the ideal place to enjoy the wild surroundings a bit more.

In early 1926, there was neither electricity nor water in the then rustic inn.

The two have long found their way, and other things have changed in the Relais d’Arpete in about a hundred years. A lot is left with him, especially the charm.

The fact that there are no TVs in the 17 double rooms and various large dormitories, nor that the Mountain Inn has a health area, is not an anecdote, but a program. It also includes the crackling fireplace in the dining room.

Anyone who comes here in the valley 1,600 meters above sea level, comes mainly because of nature.

For all levels, hiking trails of all lengths are at the door. There are many great climbing routes in the area. And greens, chamois and ibex can be seen from inside the cozy dining room.

Because the protected and yet easily accessible Alp is located on the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt, Relais is frequently visited by hikers, especially in summer.

In 2020, Bernd Rosenthal and his business partner took over the Relais d’Arpete from a family that has run guest houses for more than 90 years.

The new owners saw the crisis as an opportunity to switch from summer to year-round operations.

After all, Val d’Arpet is not only a hiking trail, but also a snowshoe mecca. And as an ideal starting point for cross-country and ski tours.

During the warm season, camping enthusiasts will also find value for their money in Val d’Arpete. Relais has a cozy, small campsite – for an overnight stay that is close to the quintessence of nature.

Campers without equipment can stay in a comfortable “petit arpet”. Seven new, handcrafted wooden tents allow a direct view of the twinkling starry sky thanks to skylights.