A small town with fewer than 7,000 inhabitants, Saxon is the heart of Valais apricot growing. Its population has doubled since 2000 and its modern part is not very interesting, but its old village, perched above the Rhône plain, has retained its charm of yesteryear.

In the Middle Ages, when Saxon belonged to the Counts of Savoy, a castle stood above the village. It was destroyed and left in ruins in 1475 after Savoy was defeated at the Battle of La Planta by the Bishops of Sion and their allies.

All that remains of this castle are the keep and the chapel, perched on a spur of the mountain and offering spectacular views over the Rhône plain. A spiral staircase gives free access to climb to the top of the tower to enjoy the view.

These two witnesses to the past are located on the "Sentier de l'Abricot" (Apricot Trail), whose 12 educational panels tell you everything you need to know about this delicious fruit that is emblematic of the Valais.

In mid-July, the National Apricot Festival is held in the gardens of the Saxon Casino. National? That's right! With 700 hectares of apricot trees, producing over 8,000 tonnes a year, the Valais accounts for 95% of Swiss production, and Saxon is undoubtedly the apricot capital!

Useful links

Swiss Canton of Valais (iSwitzerland Guide) - Wikipedia