Situated between Salgesch and Leuk, Varen (Varonne in French) is a small wine-growing village whose vintages have nothing to envy those of its famous neighbour Salgesch, even if they are much less well-known.

The village lies on a slope above the plain, facing the natural reserve of Pfynwald, and not on the main road. It is reached by a winding road from Salgesch or, more comfortably, by an easier road from Leuk over the elegant bridge that spans the spectacular gorges of the Dala, the river that flows from Leukerbad.

You won't find a tourist office in Varen; the village is promoted by the Leukerbad resort and information can be found on the website leukerbad.ch.

The village is well worth a visit, even if you're not interested in vines and wine. It is full of charming little lanes, and the area around its church, built on a promontory, offers spectacular panoramic views.

Useful links

Swiss Canton of Valais - Wikipedia