Ayer, Zinal & Grimentz — A heritage of wood, stone, and alpine light

Between raccards and chalets: alpine tradition at the rhythm of time

In the Val d’Anniviers, the villages of Ayer, Zinal, and Grimentz reveal an architecture of rare depth, shaped by centuries and preserved with an almost instinctive delicacy.
Here, nothing is frozen in time: the larch façades burned by the sun tell stories of life and history; cobbled alleys still echo with the footsteps of the inhabitants; the air carries the sound of alpine bells and the scent of wood warmed by light.

You wander at human scale, through living hamlets of stone walls, small squares, old fountains, and granaries on stilts — jewels of Valaisan heritage, built on stone “mushrooms” to protect the grain.
This is Anniviers in its truth: authentic, alive, humble and noble at once.
A place to walk slowly, where every detail deserves attention, where time seems to breathe differently.

What to admire

In Ayer
• Ancient streets, carved doors, exposed wooden frames
• Raccards & granaries gathered around small squares
• Chapel & washhouse — simple, poetic heritage

In Zinal
• Dark, mineral old village with narrow lanes at the foot of the peaks
• Rows of granaries, witnesses of the old village organization
• Nearby viewpoints offering sweeping views of the valley

In Grimentz
• Aligned raccards — an icon of Valais, with flowered balconies in summer
• Cobbled alleys, fountains, old doors, sculptural light
• Balcony trails framing the village and its dark roofs

Suggested walks

• Grimentz – old village & raccards (45–75 min)
  Historic alleys, squares, and an elevated viewpoint.
• Zinal – old village & viewpoint (1h30–2h)
  Through the heart of the hamlet, then a gentle ascent to a panoramic view.
• Ayer – lanes & forest trail (1–2h)
  Traditional village, then a forest path overlooking the valley.

Best moments

All year round. From May to October, flowers, long shadows, and textures enhanced by the evening light.
In winter, a quieter atmosphere — anti-slip soles recommended depending on conditions.

Combine with

• Nature walk: The Moiry Bisse and Vallon de Réchy – cool trails and wildlife observation.
• Mountain hike: The Moiry Lake and Becs de Bosson – a high-altitude adventure.
• Local flavors: Mountain wines and Anniviers cheeses – tastings in Vissoie or Grimentz.

Access & practical info

Parking areas at the village entrances and regular bus connections from Vissoie.
Marked trails and maps available at local offices.
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and a light jacket — the shade of the alleys can be cool.