The Vièze Gorge offers a short nature hike starting from the Vieux-Pont, in the centre of Monthey, in Valais. A loop trail follows the river, passes through a tunnel carved into the rock and crosses a suspension bridge 50 m above the water.
Caves & mines
Vièze Gorge
Main highlights
- 100 m suspension bridge perched 50 m above the Vièze, the highlight of the walk
- 1h45 loop trail starting from the centre of Monthey, ideal for a family outing
- Seven educational panels on the geological, biological and historical heritage of the gorge
Overview
The Vièze Gorge lies on the doorstep of Monthey, in Valais. The route begins at the Vieux-Pont, in the heart of town, and offers a short, refreshing walk that contrasts with the nearby urban surroundings. The trail first follows the river, then enters the gorge, with its rocky walls and dense vegetation.
The route also bears traces of the region’s industrial past. You pass an 1893 power station, built to supply the Helvetia sugar factory. Seven educational panels present the geological, biological and historical heritage of the gorge.
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Things to see and do
At the end of the riverside path, you pass through a small cave, then the trail goes through a tunnel carved into the rock before climbing towards the bridge. Along the way, you can observe the many faces of the gorge, from the rushing river to the rock walls.
The suspension bridge is 100 m long and towers 50 m above the Vièze. It is the highlight of the walk. Once across, the route passes through a broadleaf forest where you can picnic in the shade.
Throughout the hike, numerous artworks dot the route. These installations add a cultural dimension to the walk without altering the wild character of the site.
Practical information
Access : via the A9 motorway, exit 18 (St-Triphon), then follow signs to Monthey centre. A small car park is located near the Vieux-Pont, the starting point.
Visit duration : about 40 minutes and just over a kilometre of walking to the bridge, 1h45 for the full loop.
Suitable for : a family-friendly outing, without excessive difficulty.
Visiting tips
Summer is the most pleasant time to enjoy the cool air of the gorge. Bring hiking shoes with good grip, as some sections can be damp and slippery.
In the tunnel, the lighting is not automatic : press the switch to see where you are stepping.
Nearby attractions
- Vertic-Halle Monthey combines bouldering for all ages with a play area for children.
- The Galerie Défago, in the Val d’Illiez, is a secured historic trail along the mountainside.
- The Vieux Moulins de la Tine, in the Troistorrents gorge, showcase traditional crafts of the past.
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