Les Evouettes: Vineyards, Historic Routes and Village Life

Les Evouettes lies partly on the alluvial fan of the Tové and at the foot of the Grammont. As one of the two localities in the municipality of Port-Valais, it has preserved its rural character and distinctly village-like atmosphere. Vineyards, a fertile plain and routes with historic and scenic significance shape the area.

Vineyards and agriculture

Coming from Évian, the vineyards of Les Evouettes are the first Valais vineyard on the left bank of the Rhône. Wines associated with the area include Fendant, Pinot noir, Gamaret and Rosé de pinot noir. The wine from Les Evouettes is considered well known beyond the immediate area. It is believed that inhabitants in Roman times were the first to cultivate the alluvial areas that now make up the vineyard of Les Evouettes. Below the vineyard stretches a fertile plain used for local agriculture.

Walks and hiking routes

The “Sentier des vignes aux Evouettes” is a walking trail through the vineyards and is open to everyone. Several refreshment stands are located along the route. A second named option is the “Autour de Noville” hiking loop, which passes through Les Evouettes. It offers views of the old Rhône, the Rhône Canal and the Stockalper Canal; rated T1, the route is classified as easy. The two routes differ in their features: the Sentier passes through the vineyards, while Autour de Noville offers views of the three waterways and is rated T1 (easy). In the area between Le Bouveret and Les Evouettes, hiking trails lead into the mountains and run with views over the lakeshore. There are plenty of opportunities for walks on foot around both localities.

Historic route

The historic section of route VS 18.2 runs more directly past Les Evouettes than the earlier route. Along the route is a dry-stone wall secured with cement, considered unique because of its height and length.

Village life and regional context

Below the school in Les Evouettes is a place where worshippers celebrate their faith. The Chorale St Michel also uses the same place for rehearsals. Since 2019, a free Café littéraire has been held once a month at the Port-Valais library. It is open to everyone, with tea or coffee; usually around 10 to 15 people attend each session.

At the municipal level, Port-Valais lies at the southeastern end of Lake Geneva, where the Rhône flows into it. The Stockalper Canal runs between the river and the foot of the Grammont.

Getting around the area

The parking area du Grammont is at the entrance to Les Evouettes when arriving from Vouvry. The Tauredunum parking area is opposite the Salle Tauredunum. The parking area de l’Église de Port-Valais is at the exit from Les Evouettes on the cantonal road.

For the broader travel overview: Port-Valais.