Discover Eison

Eison is a village at an altitude of 1,650 metres, known for its tranquillity. It consists of two hamlets separated by a rushing stream. A variety of trails explore the landscape, from the Sentier Nature between Eison and Nax to a snowshoe route with views across the Val d’Hérens.

Hiking trails with different route profiles

The 15-kilometre Sentier Nature runs from Eison to Nax at an average altitude of 1,600 metres. Forests and flower-filled meadows alternate with mountain streams and alpine pasture settlements; the route also follows three bisses, the historic irrigation channels. The altitude given is the average for the route. This provides a way to assess the trail based on its length and landscape features, without confusing it with a circular hike.

The Eison–L’A Vieille circular hike is 7.1 kilometres long and takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. The Tour des villages de Saint-Martin is longer, at 11.9 kilometres; it is listed as taking around 3 hours and 50 minutes. The difference between the approximate times is about half an hour, while the route lengths differ by 4.8 kilometres. The second circular hike passes through Eison and climbs to the alpine pasture settlements of Eison. Along the way, it offers glimpses of traditional architecture, open landscapes and alpine atmosphere. For both hikes, conditions on mountain trails vary with the season.

L’A Vieille and the alpine landscape

The hamlet of the L’A Vieille alpine pasture lies on a gently sloping high plateau just above the village of Eison, at an altitude of 2,400 metres. The original hamlet has retained its distinctive character; the buildings have been renovated in keeping with their original style. It is also home to a renovated agritourism building with an area for local products and a refreshment bar. Check seasonal opening times before visiting.

The natural areas along the Eison–L’A Vieille route are ideal for relaxation and observing alpine wildlife and plant life. The old chapel of Eison is also considered worth a visit. These places add further dimensions to the landscape and village setting beyond the hikes, without requiring a particular route length.

Mountain biking and snowshoe route

The challenging Grand Raid Eison–Pas de Lona mountain bike route involves more than 1,000 metres of ascent and reaches a high point of 2,788 metres. The descent follows the same trail. From there, you can continue towards Grimentz or take the recommended detour to the Cabane des Becs de Bosson. Conditions on this high-alpine route can change quickly; take this into account when planning your trip.

In winter, the Eison–La Crettaz snowshoe trail offers impressive views across the Val d’Hérens from a natural vantage point. The ascent is around 200 metres and is evenly graded; the trail is considered suitable for all hikers. Winter access depends on snow and trail conditions. Check these before setting out so that your plans suit the situation at the time.

Saint-Martin in its regional context

The Eison alpine pasture lies within the municipality of Saint-Martin and covers 173 hectares. The regional context is also important when it comes to local dishes and products: in the wider Saint-Martin area, these include beef, lamb and goat meat, alpine cheese and cheese from local dairies. Raclette, Tsarfion, dried meat, raw ham, smoked bacon and rye bread are also among the region’s products and dishes. This keeps the culinary tradition in the broader context of Saint-Martin, while the trails and village features relate directly to Eison.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Martin Vs, Mase, Vernamiège, Les Masses, Vex, Les Agettes, Nax, Vex

For the main travel overview: Hérens.