Hike in the heart of the Vallon de Réchy

Cool streams and the silence of Réchy

Between the flowing waters of the Bisse de Moiry and the preserved atmosphere of the Vallon de Réchy, you can experience two perfectly complementary hikes: a shaded, almost flat walk ideal in warm weather, followed by a wilder immersion in a high alpine valley where wildlife is often present (marmots, ibex, birds of prey). The scenery: spruce forests, clearings, alpine meadows, views over the lake, and higher up, the mineral world of the ridges.

Recommended routes

• Bisse de Moiry (easy, 2–3 h round trip): balcony trail alternating between forest and clearings, fresh atmosphere and gentle pace. Perfect for families or as a warm-up.
• Entrance to the Vallon de Réchy (moderate, 3–4 h depending on variant): alpine meadows, wetlands, quiet observation points in the early morning or late afternoon to spot wildlife.

“Plus” variants depending on your energy

• Viewpoints above the lake: add a short detour to a viewpoint for reflections on the turquoise water.
• Upper Réchy access: for altitude lovers, take a higher mountain path and return via an easier route.

Best times & seasons

• June → October (depending on snow).
• Morning: soft light, calm, ideal for photos and wildlife.
• Late afternoon: warm colors, marmots and ibex more active.
• Summer: prefer the bisse on hot days (shade, water).
• September–October: golden light, fewer people.

Wildlife observation

Stay quiet, move slowly, keep your distance. Binoculars help observe without disturbing. Avoid crossing alpine meadows off-trail: stay on paths to protect fragile zones. Dogs on leash.

Access & practical info

Road access to the lake/dam area for the bisse. Marked trails for hiking, with mountain path variants. Seasonal shuttles available in the valley area (check local schedules).

Level & duration

From easy 2–3 h (bisse) to moderate 3–4 h (Réchy entrance), with some rockier sections at higher elevations. Routes are flexible: half-day “discovery” or full-day by combining both.

Useful tips

Good grip hiking shoes, windproof layers, sunscreen, water, and salty snacks. Download an offline map if planning a high variant. Start early if storms are forecast. Carry your waste out.

For whom?

• Families: shaded bisse, steady pace, easy breaks.
• Photographers: morning reflections, spruce textures, evening light.
• Nature lovers: peaceful valley, great wildlife spotting potential.

→ Want to combine easy walks and real relaxation? Discover our stays: see Alpura lodges.