Grimentz — Switzerland's Best-Kept Secret in the Val d'Anniviers

Hidden in the Val d'Anniviers, Grimentz is the kind of place Swiss locals ski but rarely tell outsiders about. Dark wooden chalets, a centuries-old wine cellar, and a freeride paradise linked by cable car to Zinal — this is the real deal.

Getting There

Fly to Geneva (GVA), then drive 2.5 hours or take the train to Sierre, followed by a 40-minute PostBus up the winding valley road. The drive is stunning but can require snow chains in January.

Where to Stay

Grimentz is tiny and perfectly formed. Les Mélèzes apartments are right by the lifts and offer great self-catering value. Hotel Alpina has mountain character with modern comfort. Expect CHF 80–130/night for a good apartment sleeping four.

On the Mountain

Grimentz-Zinal offers 115km of piste between 1,570m and 2,900m, connected by Switzerland's third-longest cable car. The terrain is wonderfully varied — gentle blues above Grimentz, long reds through larch forests, and serious off-piste on the Zinal side. With a Val d'Anniviers pass you also get St-Luc/Chandolin and Vercorin — 210km total.

Where to Eat

The Orzival mountain restaurant has outstanding rösti and views. In the village, Auberge de Grimentz serves traditional Anniviers cuisine — dried meat, raclette, and local wine from the Bourgeoisie cellar (a 500-year-old communal wine cave you can visit). La Marende is the local favourite for après.

Local Insider Tips

• The Bourgeoisie wine cellar tour is unmissable — centuries of communal Valais wine stored in ancient barrels. Book at the tourist office.
• Buy the Magic Pass (CHF 459/season) if skiing multiple Swiss resorts — it covers Grimentz and 80+ other stations.
• Zinal side has the best off-piste — hire a guide for the Sorebois couloirs.
• Drive 20 minutes to Sierre for cheaper supermarkets and fuel before heading up the valley.

Budget Breakdown (7 days, per person)