Photos from the canton of Valais

The canton of Valais is one of the 26 cantons of Switzerland and is located in the southwest of the country. It is a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world, who are drawn to its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and numerous leisure activities.

One of the most recognizable features of the canton of Valais is its breathtaking Alpine landscape, including the Matterhorn. The region is home to some of the highest mountains in the Alps, such as the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, the Dom, and the Weisshorn. It also boasts numerous glaciers, including the Aletsch Glacier, the longest and largest glacier in the Alps. Furthermore, the region is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including chamois, marmots, bearded vultures, and eagles.

Valais is also known for its picturesque villages and towns, including Sion, the canton's capital, Martigny, Visp, and Brig. There are also numerous historical buildings and churches to visit, including Sion Cathedral, Visp Church, and Sion Castle. A particular highlight is the Valais Museum in Sion, which houses an extensive collection of artworks, artifacts, and information about the canton's history and culture.

Valais is also known for its recreational opportunities. In winter, it's a popular ski resort with a wide variety of slopes for beginners and advanced skiers, as well as some of the best freeride opportunities in Switzerland. In summer, there are numerous hiking trails and mountain tours, including the Matterhorn tour, the Dufourspitze, and the Zermatt-Rothorn tour. There are also numerous mountain bike trails.

The culture of Valais has a long and rich history. The region is home to the French-speaking Valaisans, who maintain their own traditions and customs. There are numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the Festival de la Cité in Sion in July and the Valais Christmas markets in December.