Exploring Mauvoisin Dam

Nestled at the top of the Val de Bagnes, the Mauvoisin Dam is one of our many day trips. The iconic structure promises a thrilling blend of adventure and natural beauty with a breathtakingly beautiful view: lake, waterfalls, mountains, and valleys as far as the eye can see.

What is Mauvoisin Dam?

The Mauvoisin Dam is a majestic concrete arch dam located in the Val de Bagnes, a picturesque valley in the southwestern part of Switzerland. Standing proudly at an impressive height of over 250 meters (820 feet), this engineering wonder was completed in the 1950s. Its primary purpose is to harness the untamed power of the Dranse de Bagnes River and regulate its flow to generate hydroelectricity. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and unique mountain experience, Via Ferrata is an activity that should be at the top of your bucket list. Combining elements of hiking, climbing, and mountaineering, Via Ferrata (Italian for “iron way”) allows you to traverse breathtaking landscapes using a system of steel cables, ladders, and footholds.

What you need:

Before we explore the local routes, let’s ensure you have the necessary gear. While Via Ferrata differs slightly from climbing, safety remains paramount. Equip yourself with a sturdy climbing harness and a helmet to protect yourself. Additionally, you’ll require a specialized Via Ferrata set, comprising two elasticized lanyards with energy absorbers, carabiners, and a braking mechanism. This set enables you to securely attach to the steel cables. Apart from the essential safety equipment, a few comfort items are worth considering. Invest in a pair of gloves with a reliable grip to shield your hands, and opt for comfortable closed-toe shoes with a grippy sole, providing stability and support on the rugged terrain. Verbier and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of Via Ferrata routes suitable for all skill levels. From beginner-friendly routes to more challenging heights, there’s something for everyone, whether you seek an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a family-friendly day out.

Les Gentianes – Mont Fort (Verbier):

This Via Ferrata offers two routes – the first ‘Edelweiss’ route is designed with fixed ladders and security cables. Avoiding excessive exposure, this route is an excellent choice for children aged 8 and above (accompanied by a professional) or anyone seeking a relaxed climb without feeling overwhelmed. The second Androsace route is more challenging and takes you on an adventure along exposed ridges, steep cliffs, and a suspension bridge. Expect breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, Combins, and the Grand Combin at this fantastic Via Ferrata.

La Via Farinetta:

This route takes you deep into the heart of a gorge, revealing its untamed beauty and the origins of the thermal water that feeds the Saillon Thermal Baths. The three sections of this Vi Ferrata increase in difficulty at each stage. It begins with an easy and family-friendly section, providing a suitable introduction for climbers of all ages. As you continue, the route transitions to a more exposed and physically demanding section, before concluding with a final section that requires advanced skills.

Via Ferrata Saxifrage – Mauvoisin:

Located near the impressive Mauvoisin Dam, this route promises a thrilling and unforgettable experience. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Mauvoisin Reservoir and the surrounding mountain peaks. The Mauvoisin Via Ferrata offers a mix of vertical walls, exposed ridges, and challenging sections, making it suitable for intermediate and experienced climbers. Via Ferrata in Verbier and the surrounding area provides an exhilarating way to explore the majestic Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a complete beginner or seeking an adrenaline rush, these routes offer a range of difficulty levels and breathtaking vistas. Remember to prioritise safety, follow the instructions, and enjoy the unique blend of adventure and spectacle. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Verbier and its surrounding region offer a breathtaking range of family friendly hikes and adventurers of all ages. Renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, this picturesque destination also boasts an array of family-friendly hiking trails that introduce children to the wonders of the great outdoors. From high-mountain views to enchanting forests and streams, the region offers a wide range of hiking options that are both fun and accessible for the little ones. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best child-friendly hikes in Verbier and its surroundings, ensuring that your family enjoys an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Bisses du Levron

Embark on an adventure along the Bisse du Levron, a historic irrigation channel that meanders through the serene countryside near Verbier. This family-friendly hike offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The trail follows the gently sloping contour of the mountainside, providing easy walking for children of all ages. As you stroll along the tranquil path, you’ll be surrounded by meadows, wildflowers, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Click here for the route and more information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/offers/bisse-du-levron-verbier-en-summer-2794021/

Bisse des Ravines

On the other side of the Val de Bagnes, located in the charming village of Bruson, lies the scenic Bisse des Ravines. As you wander along the Bisse, you’ll encounter wooden bridges, peaceful picnic spots, and benches placed to enjoy the serene surroundings and view of Verbier from across the valley. The trail offers ample opportunities for children to observe local wildlife, and as you walk, you’ll encounter informative panels detailing the history and purpose of the Bisse, providing insights into the traditional agricultural practices that sustained the local communities. More information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/inside/destinations/must-see-places/bisse-des-ravines/

Treasure Hunt Trail

Perfect for even the littlest of legs, this 1.5km trail follows a treasure hunt meandering through Verbier Village. With 11 stations, children follow the trail of Célestin the Ibex and discover the history of Verbier and Val de Bagnes. A short and easy walk makes this trail suitable for all ages. More information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/offers/on-the-trail-of-celestin-the-ibex-family-course-verbier-en-summer-3727381/

Lac de Vaux

The trail to Lac de Vaux is well-marked and suitable for families with slightly older children. While the hike involves a moderate climb, it offers a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. As you climb up to 2,543m and approach the crystal-clear waters of Lac de Vaux, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning sight that reflects the surrounding mountain peaks. You can start from either Ruinettes or Savoleyres. Check the link for more info: https://verbier4vallees.ch/en/experiences-in-verbier/hiking/lac-des-vaux

These child-friendly hikes offer a range of experiences, from easy walks through alpine meadows to slightly more challenging trails leading to stunning lakes. Whether your little explorers are thrilled by spotting wildlife, enchanted by running rivers, or fascinated by the stories of the past, Verbier and its surrounding area have it all. So, pack your backpacks, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an unforgettable journey that will create lasting memories for the whole family.

Not sure what you need when you’re hiking with children? Make sure you check out our blog ‘Hiking with young children‘ for a complete guide. The Alps is the perfect European destination for a lakes and mountain family holiday, with majestic mountains, beautiful vineyard-laden valleys, green pastures and glacier-fed lakes, both big and small to explore. Verbier, a sunny mountain town in a south-facing bowl soaks up much of the summer sun, and faces the Grand Combin Massif, meaning you get to soak up beautiful views and mountain air each day, with fantastic hiking opportunities on your doorstep.

The perfect escape

Switzerland is renowned for its beautiful, crystal clear mountain lakes, some of which are located at high altitude and can be accessed only by hiking or biking, others are accessible by car or located in towns and villages, and replace beaches for the Swiss and tourists alike. Many of the high altitude lakes are fed by glacial or mountain meltwater meaning they can stay very cold even into the summer months, which makes for a refreshing stop on a hike for a dip! There are many lakes designated for swimming and other water activities, especially the vast shores of Lake Geneva or Lac Leman as it is known in French.

Lake activities

A relaxing day at the lake can be a highlight of the holiday, and best of all there’s no sand, saltwater or tides to worry about! Swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, pedalos or kayaking are just some of the popular activities on the shores of Lake Geneva. Our favourite areas to hang out closest to Verbier are in the town of Villeneuve; the outdoor pool here has an entrance fee which keeps crowd numbers lower, and there are diving boards to use, a snack bar, a pool for the younger ones and paddleboards to rent by the hour. Champex Lac is also a short and very scenic 45 minute drive away, a family-friendly lake in a small mountain resort, offering pedalos, rowing boats, and paddleboards, wonderful for cooling off on a hot day with some great restaurants for lunch.

Wakeboarding and surfing

For those looking for something a bit more special, watersports on the lake on offer include wakeboarding, wake surfing or water skiing. With a group or your family, you head out on the boat for a great experience, whether you’re an expert or it’s something you’ve never tried before! The companies have everything you need, just bring your camera and swimmers! The water is warm enough to not need wetsuits in the summer, but early or late in the season you can borrow these too.

Lake and Dam hikes

We don’t know about you, but there’s nothing better than a hike to a beautiful glacial lake, rewarded at the top by a dip to cool off and a couple of hours of swimming and picnicking before beginning your descent. It’s always best to check if swimming is possible at your destination lake, as some are in protected areas and others are dams with hydroelectric systems where it isn’t possible to swim, but the views are still well worth the trip. In Verbier, our most accessible mountain lake is Lac de Vaux, an uphill hike and relatively steep descent in part, it is best to allow for a 4 hour round trip including a stop off for photos, a picnic and a dip. Some of our other favourites include Mauvoisin Dam, Emosson Dam and Lac Taney (the hike up is pretty steep though a taxi service also runs up the road).   Day Trip from Verbier to Montreux This city is one of our favourite places in the region and a popular choice for our day camp clients to visit at the weekend. Montreux, often described as the Swiss Riviera, is a truly beautiful escape. Whether for a day trip or for a couple of nights stay, Montreux is a great place to visit for those who like a picturesque walk, food with a view or of course some live music. Montreux Jazz Festival Founded in 1967, this event is the second largest jazz festival in the world, after the Montreal International Jazz Festival in Canada. Montreux welcomes over 250,000 people each year and opens 3 ticketed venues as well as numerous complimentary open air concerts to enjoy whilst relaxing by the lake. Although known as the “Jazz Festival”, the event has also expanded in recent years to bring a more eclectic choice of concerts for patrons to choose from. Lenny Kravtiz, Emelie Sande, Prince, David Bowie and Ben Howard are just a few of the renowned musicians to grace the stage! The line up each year is eagerly awaited by locals with tickets selling fast however there are always a few reserved for purchase on the day and trust us, the queue is worth it. Some of the venues are small and intimate which make for a nice relaxed evening and some are much larger for a party style night out. If you are visiting with the family, check the schedule for the day time shows, these are often the free events and open air which means you can enjoy the sunshine at the same time. These shows can be combined with browsing the various food stands and stalls along the shoreline. For dates and prices this year click here. Chateau Chillon For some culture, why not visit the Chateau Chillon, an island castle with a great bit of history. Occupied since the bronze age, Chatueau Chillon is a beautiful castle to look around. Head underground to experience some wonderful architecture or find the Bernese Chamber to see an old-style bedroom. With children, if you are travelling near a birthday, you can book a tailormade scavenger hunt for them and their friends. This way they tour the castle with a costumed guide and enjoy some treats at the end! There are many different highlights to this castle and a guided tour is a great way to get the most out of it. For a more relaxed tour, you can enter without a guide between 9:00 and 18:00 (exit at 19:00) during the summer months. For prices and details on guided tours visit the website here. Dining in Montreux  With picturesque views from most the restaurants, there an abundance of places to select from and many of the hotels on the road behind the promenade boast wonderful terraces where you can enjoy the sun and some time to people watch. Fun with the kids The weather in July and August is often sunny and beautiful and with this comes the heat. There is a mini “beach” where you can relax and paddle but there is also a small jetty, just near the Freddie Mercury statue which is popular with older children (and adults!) to jump off so don’t forget your swimwear! There are also some water fountains in the main square to cool off, great for younger kids that like to play a guessing game of when the fountains will start and stop! Champex Lac Day Trip One of our favourite trips from Verbier is a Champex Lac day trip. This is about a 45 minute drive from Verbier and is a beautiful destination to visit. You can make it a whole day out or just pop over for lunch and see the sights; it is a popular destination from Verbier for road cyclists as well, with a well-deserved lunch at the top! A beautiful mountain lake nestled in the small resort makes for stunning views, a warm sunny day would be the perfect time to plan a visit. Here are a few of our favourite things to do there.   Lake Activities Once the ice melts, usually May-time, and the mountains warm up for the summer, Champex-Lac comes alive again and you can rent pedalos or paddle-boards just by the side of the lake. There is optional instruction for paddle-boarding too if you’ve never given it a go before. You can even take a dip if you’re feeling brave, but be warned that the water usually is still very cold – even at the height of summer!   Hiking There are some beautiful hikes in the area. One of our favourites to enjoy some of the spectacular views of the valley is the bisse walk, which can then be turned into a much bigger walk up the river if you wish. Park at the lift station and follow the road that runs behind this for a short distance, and you will see a sign-posted footpath running slightly downhill which takes you along the bisse, and then joins up with the fast flowing river. Botanical Garden For those fancying a stroll, there is an alpine botanic garden located in Champex-Lac. Just drive past the main section of the lake and town. The easiest way to access this is to park at the lift station again up out of town and on the opposite side of the road you will see signs to the botanic garden going back in the direction you have just come. About 5 minutes walk will take you; there is an entry fee. Lunch Spots There are some lovely restaurants in the centre of the village offering lunch, some with a view of the lake and others just a few moments stroll away. Outdoor Pool If you fancy a swim and don’t want to brave the waters of the lac then there is an outdoor pool just off the road before reaching the village and lake. This can be a great way to cool off after a hike with the kids, or just to enjoy after a stroll around the lake and town. Climbing For climbers, there’s a lovely little spot to check out very close to the town. Before the outdoor pool there is a lay by where you can park, and a hiking trail which actually forms part of the famous ‘Haute Route’ from Chamonix to Zermatt. After a 10 minute walk down the trail there are bolted routes on an outcrop of rock put together by the Guides de Verbier; however please note that you will need to be an experienced climber with all your own equipment.