The last village in the Val d'Anniviers, just 24km from the Rhône plain but 1100m higher, Zinal lies at the foot of the majestic "Imperial Crown", the nickname given to the series of 4000m peaks that surround it. Although the village has become very popular with tourists, many of its old traditional "mayens" have been preserved.

In winter, Zinal shares a ski area with Grimentz, offering 70 km of downhill ski runs and around 20 km of cross-country ski runs. In summer, it's a paradise for hikers, with 300km of signposted trails, and an ideal starting point for mountaineering.

Since 1974, the village has been the finish of the famous Sierre-Zinal mountain race, which takes place every year on the second Sunday in August. Sierre-Zinal is nicknamed "the race of the five 4,000s" because on its route runners can see five peaks over 4,000m (Weisshorn 4,506m, Zinalrothorn 4,221m, Ober Gabelhorn 4,063m, Matterhorn 4,478m and Dent Blanche 4,357m). The record for this 31km race is 2h25min35s.

In the past, Zinal consisted entirely of "mayens", many of which still exist today. It was an alpine pasture belonging to the municipality of Ayer, a village 7km further down the valley. Tourism began to appear in the second half of the 19th century under the impetus of English mountaineers, but the road between Ayer and Zinal was not opened until 1951.

From the Rhone plain, the road up the Val d'Anniviers is relatively difficult, with hairpin bends and tight spots where passing other vehicles is only possible thanks to sidings. Drive carefully, or take the postbus!

When you arrive in Zinal, you may be a little disappointed. The village has developed a lot and you have to go away from the centre to find the mayens and the atmosphere of bygone days. But you won't be disappointed by the walk. Sandwiched between spectacular mountains, Zinal is a truly fascinating destination.

Useful links

Swiss Canton of Valais (iSwitzerland Guide) - Wikipedia