Discover Chemin: Mining, Nature and Hotels

Chemin lies between the Rhône and Dranse valleys. Chemin-Dessus sits at an altitude of 1,150 metres on Mont Chemin, overlooking Martigny and the Rhône Valley. Chemin VS is a locality in the municipalities of Martigny and Val de Bagnes in the canton of Valais. The area is shaped for travel planning above all by the mining history of Mont Chemin, routes in the alpine surroundings and offerings featuring local products.

Mining history on the Sentier des Mines

The Sentier des Mines du Mont Chemin leads to mine entrances that tell the story of a long mining history: iron was extracted there for fifteen centuries; in the 20th century, lead, silver and fluorite were also mined. As an educational trail, it brings together heritage, nature and geology. The route passes through meadows, grazed woodland pastures and mountain forests at mid-altitudes. Along one trail, mining history and a variety of landscapes meet.

At Col des Planches, there is a visitor and exhibition area at the trailhead. It presents the natural and mineralogical features of Mont Chemin, as well as the route of the educational trail. An audio guide for the Sentier des Mines is available through the Izi.TRAVEL app. The Centre Nature du Mont Chemin was established in 2000 by a group of people with a passion for nature. Their aim was to share Mont Chemin’s natural and historical heritage through activities and outings exploring the surrounding nature.

Routes through summer and winter landscapes

In summer, routes from the Hôtel Beau-Site lead to the alpine pastures of Biolay, Col des Planches, Tronc and Lin, as well as to various mountain huts serving refreshments. Other routes from there lead to La Crevasse, Col du Tronc and Col du Lin. These destinations offer panoramic views of Grand Combin and the Italian Alps. A marked hiking trail also lies less than 500 metres from the Buvette d’Alpage du Col des Planches.

For winter outings, there are marked snowshoe loops starting from Col des Planches and routes through larch forests. Ski touring routes from Col des Planches include routes to La Crevasse and Les Blisiers. The terrain is considered gently sloping and relatively free of avalanche risk. The options described therefore vary by season and activity: in summer, routes lead to alpine pastures and mountain huts, while in winter, snowshoeing and ski touring take centre stage.

Climbing and cycling

There are at least eight equipped climbing areas on Mont Chemin. They offer short routes as well as multi-pitch routes, and climbing is possible there year-round. The main climbing area can be reached on foot from the Hôtel Beau-Site.

There are also a variety of cycling routes. The Le Planard mountain bike route passes through Chemin-Dessous and climbs through the forest towards Col des Planches. It is 27 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 1,065 metres. The Col des Planches–Champex–Petite Forclaz road cycling route passes through the villages of Chemin-Dessous and Chemin-Dessus. The routes can therefore be distinguished by their stated features: the length and elevation gain are given for Le Planard, while the road cycling route is characterised by its path through both parts of the locality.

Alpine products and hotel features

At the Buvette d’Alpage du Col des Planches, visitors can sample cheese, Sérac and various Tommes. The products are made daily on the alp over a wood fire. Together with the nearby marked hiking trail, the buvette makes a convenient starting point for anyone looking to combine local produce with a route in the surrounding area.

The Hôtel Beau-Site offers fully plant-based cuisine made with organic, seasonal and locally sourced products wherever possible. The property also has a 100-square-metre seminar room built entirely of wood, with views of a larch forest. These details complement the routes that start from the Hôtel Beau-Site with specific features of the property. When comparing hotels in Chemin, travellers can choose where to stay based on their interests: mining and geology, alpine trails, climbing or cycling each offer a different focus.

For the wider travel overview: Vollèges.