Summer Sports & Activities
Veysonnaz - a resort for all seasons
The Swiss Alps are most breathtaking when they are verdant and lush. They are particularly beautiful when the flowers start to bloom. Autumn on the other hand is a technicolour of yellow, orange and red hues to rival New England - quite different from the white winter wonderland most people envisage.
Veysonnaz is blessed with a unique Mediterranean micro-climate and enjoys over 300 days sunshine per year - allegedly more than the French Riviera! The best time to visit depends on how you wish to spend your time. Summer is lovely with balmy temperatures of 25 - 35°C and a pleasant alpine breeze, whilst spring and autumn are excellent seasons for exploring.
Holidaying during these seasons also provides the opportunity to enjoy some real Swiss traditions. For example, there is the yearly ritual of the Swiss farmers moving their cattle to higher pastures ("inalpe") and regular cow fighting festivals. The International Alpenhorn Festival is held at the end of July at nearby Tracouet.
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoilt for choice: mountain biking (with or without the lift system), hiking (up mountains or along level bisses, climbing, paragliding, parachuting, tennis, archery, picnicking by glacier lakes, natural thermal hot springs, rafting, canoeing, bungee-jumping, quad biking, wine tours, world class golf and plenty more. - all in the idyllic alpine scenery. See below for further details.
And if all that sounds like too much hard work, Veysonnaz is a wonderful place to sunbathe, read and relax with breathtaking scenery and mountain views. Links to Veysonnaz, Sion & Valais tourism websites
Swim & Spa
Within 200m of the apartments there's a wellness centre with an indoor swimming pool and marvellous views from the glazed wall and sun terrace. Entrance is free to guests and it's open from mid Dec to mid April and June to September - check times at www.wellness-veysonnaz.ch/. Sion (20 minutes drive) has a fabulous spa complex with 3 outdoor pools and one indoor pool; and Saillon (25 minutes drive) has thermal baths and saunas. More about Veysonnaz Swimming Pool
Sport in Veysonnaz
Include two tennis courts, climbing wall, river rafting on the Rhône, beach volley ball, table tennis, archery and a lovely children's playground. Summer lift passes include free activities for children, tennis use and vouchers for the restaurants. See the Useful Links button at the bottom of the page for example schedules.
Organised Activities
In July & August there are organized activities. For children aged 4-8 years the Oursons (Bear cub) Club offers theme days such as Indians; theatre; pottery; local concerts; visit to farm and donkey riding. See Veysonnaz Tourism for more details.
For 9 to 99 year olds Club Sun & Fun activities include guided walks; mountain bike tours; football; tennis; wall climbing; BMX; swimming and archery. See Veysonnaz Tourism for more details.
Paragliding
Paragliding here is awesome and also unique thanks to the exceptional thermal lifts and also the huge vertical descents. Paragliding schools offer tandem flights, introduction flights or a complete training course if you get hooked. See Veysonnaz Tourism for more details.
Horse riding
Horse riding is a great way to explore the area. Le Ranch des Maragnènes offers hacks and riding lessons for beginners and advanced riders. See www.ranch.ch Horse hire is also available at Thyon. See Veysonnaz Tourism for more details.
Rent a donkey
For a carrot the donkey will lead you on charming walks to discover "bisses" and paths of Veysonnaz region. He'll carry your children and snacks and offer you an unforgettable day (he's equipped with a saddle and two sacks for belongings). Book your donkey by contacting Dominique or Jean Glassey at www.caboulis.ch. You'll be given advice on how to handle your four hoofed guide and some information about the nicest walks to do in the region. Then... fun and adventure!