Attractions and Places To See around Martigny - Top 20

Martigny boasts a rich history, evident in its Roman and medieval sites. You can visit the restored Roman Amphitheatre, explore the remains of a Roman temple at the Fondation Pierre Gianadda, or discover other Roman vestiges like thermal baths and living quarters. The medieval Fortified Church of Saint-Nicolas of Signy-le-Petit, with its warlike appearance, and La Bâtiaz Castle, offering panoramic views, are also significant historical attractions.

Yes, you can explore several sites related to the Maginot Line, a French defense line from the 1930s. Notable examples include the Grand Marais East Casemate – Maginot Line, which served as a shelter for troops and housed machine guns, and the Bloc de la Limite No. 551 (Maginot Line), another silent witness to this historical fortification.

The region around Martigny is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the impressive Gorges du Trient, carved by glacial waters, or experience the stunning scenery of the Col de la Forclaz mountain pass. The town is situated on the Rhône elbow, surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and steep mountains, with the Dranse River flowing through it, offering a beautiful natural backdrop.

Martigny is home to several significant cultural institutions. The Fondation Pierre Gianadda is a major highlight, housing a Gallo-Roman Museum, a vintage car museum, and hosting art exhibitions. Barryland (Musée et Chiens du Saint-Bernard) celebrates the history of the iconic Saint Bernard dogs with interactive displays and a puppy viewing area. You can also explore the Morand Distillery to learn about local authentic products.

Absolutely! Families can enjoy Barryland, where children can learn about and potentially interact with Saint Bernard dogs. For more active fun, Labyrinthe Aventure, an amusement park about 15 minutes by train from Martigny, and Western City Martigny, a cowboy-themed park with games and tree walks, are excellent options.

The Martigny area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, mountain biking, and running. For example, explore the diverse terrain on routes like the 'Ohis Railway Viaduct – Old railroad loop' for gravel biking or challenging trails like 'Yes loop from Hirson' for mountain biking. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Martigny, MTB Trails around Martigny, and Running Trails around Martigny guides.

For breathtaking views, consider a ride on the Mont Blanc Express, a narrow-gauge railway offering a scenic journey to Chamonix through impressive mountain landscapes. Alternatively, the Sankt Bernhard Express provides a service to Orsières, with a bus connection through the mountains to the hospice on the Great St. Bernard Pass. The Col de la Forclaz also offers stunning vistas, popular for cycling and hiking.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The well-preserved Roman and medieval sites, combined with the stunning Alpine scenery of the Rhône Valley and its surrounding mountains, offer a diverse and engaging experience. The cultural institutions, like the Fondation Pierre Gianadda and Barryland, also receive high praise for their unique offerings.

Yes, La Neuville-aux-Joûtes is a small, green rural municipality known for its church, town hall, and a memorial to fallen soldiers. It's recognized as a '3-star' village for its protection of the night sky and a '3-flower' village for its beauty, offering a calm and simple charm.

You can discover the Locomobile Salmson No. 3003, a historical steam engine manufactured in 1900. This interesting monument, located at the entrance to Buire, offers a glimpse into early industrial technology and its role in the region's past.

The Valais region, where Martigny is located, benefits from warm sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and summer are excellent for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural gorges and mountain passes. The region also offers skiing opportunities in winter, providing diverse options depending on your preferred activity.