Attractions and Places To See around Martigny - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Martigny, a town in the Swiss Alps, offer a blend of history, culture, and natural features. The region is known for its Roman past, medieval sites, and significant cultural institutions. Martigny is surrounded by vineyards and mountains, providing diverse landscapes for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Martigny
- The most popular attractions is Farinet Footbridge (Footbridge at Farinet), a bridge that goes over a deep ravine into which a waterfall goes down. This vertiginous footbridge offers a spectacular path between Saillon and Ovronnaz.
- Another must-see spot is Dent de Nendaz, a summit and viewpoint. Visitors can expect an excellent view of the Mont Blanc range and the surrounding mountains.
- Visitors also love Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls, an impressive natural site. These waterfalls offer a dramatic experience with boardwalks, tunnels, and stairs winding through imposing cliffs and a powerful stream.
- Martigny is known for historical sites, cultural institutions, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions, from Roman ruins and medieval castles to museums and alpine lakes.
- The attractions around Martigny are appreciated by the komoot community, with 36 upvotes and 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Rambert SAC Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Dent de Nendaz
Highlight • Summit
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Col de la Forclaz (Valais)
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Farinet Footbridge (Footbridge at Farinet)
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
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Pierre Avoi Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Lac des Vaux
Highlight • Lake
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Saillon Medieval Village
Highlight • Historical Site
First mentioned in 1052 as the castle of the Bishop of Sion. Under the rule of the Savoys, the town was one of the most important commercial and military bases in the Valais until 1475
Saillon's history begins early. Hunters from the Mesolithic period (ca. 10,000 - 5,500 BC) may have occupied the portal of the Poteu cave. However, excavations in the first half of the 20th century could not attest to their presence. Saillon was then continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period (Bourneaux's tomb, 4,000 BC) and the Bronze Age (around twenty tombs reported at the foot of the hill between the Salentze and Bourneaux rivers). The remains of an important Roman villa from the 2nd century near the Salentze river indicate the importance of the site at that time. On the same site, the first Christian sanctuary of Saillon was built in the 6th century. The foundations of the walls of this Carolingian church are still visible and the reworked chancel forms the current St. Lawrence Chapel. When anarchy and insecurity replaced the order that reigned in Charlemagne's empire, the population of Saillon retreated to the more easily defended hill. It is known that a castle stood in Saillon in 1052, as it was one of the properties donated to the Chapter of Sion by Bishop Aymon of Savoy. Its strategic location was of interest to Savoy, which took possession of Saillon at the beginning of the 13th century. Around 1260, Pierre II had the city walls reinforced and the Bayart keep built, whose name comes from Lady Bayart, the owner of the property. The Dukes of Savoy had the ambition to turn Saillon into a fairground that would provide shade for their enemy, the Bishop of Sion. It should also be noted that the first written mention of vines in Valais appears in 1052. The dream of glory came to an end in 1475 when patriots from Upper Valais took over Lower Valais and set fire to the Savoyard castles, including that of Saillon. From then on, the village quickly became a peaceful village in the countryside again
Text / Source: Association, The most beautiful Swiss villages, Lugano
borghisvizzera.ch/de/scheda/saillon
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Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Opening hours: May 1 to October 31, 9am to 6pm
Admission: adults 8 CHF, children (6 to 15 years) 5 CHF
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Cabane du Fenestral
Highlight • Mountain Hut
You can find information about the hut and how to stay overnight on the website fenestral.ch.
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La Bâtiaz Covered Bridge, Martigny
Highlight • Bridge
This is the last wooden bridge in Valais that is still navigable.
Here, a bridge was swept away by the floods of the Dranse river in 1635 and later by the Giétroz debacle (1818). A new bridge was then built in 1829, covered with a structure supported by larch wood arches. The bridge was consolidated in 1920 and is the last arched bridge in Valais that is still navigable.
Text / Source: Office de Tourisme de Martigny
martigny.com/de/aktivitaten/holzbruecke-la-batiaz-5286/?gt-reset
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Tips from the Community
Superb. You can continue over the footbridge at Farinet with your mountain bike, descend to Leytron or climb to Ovronnaz and descend to Chamison.
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Pascal, the manager, is great and we really appreciated it
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Beautiful mountain lake! Perfect for cooling off and taking a short rest.
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Beautiful climb from Ovronnaz through very well-marked paths. The CAS Diablerets cabin has a very modern design. Some of it has retained its period charm. Beautiful descent from the east and return to Ovronnaz through some passable sections to relieve limbs and knees!
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From Martigny, the gradient is very steady, between 7 and 8.5%. If you ride on the outside of the road (downhill), it's quite scary, high above the vineyards below... And there's only one low guardrail. I was overtaken several times at very close range.
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The gradient from Martigny is relatively steady, between 7-8.5%. With the stunning mountain scenery in view, the nearly 1,000 meters of elevation gain are quickly conquered 😎
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clean and well maintained and stocked even out of season
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable historical sites to visit in Martigny?
Martigny boasts a rich Roman past, evident in its restored Roman Amphitheater, where cow fights are still held. You can also explore the medieval La Bâtiaz Castle, perched above the town, offering seasonal tours and dining. Additionally, the Saillon Medieval Village provides a glimpse into the region's history with its ancient structures and charming streets.
Are there any cultural institutions or museums worth visiting in Martigny?
Yes, Martigny is home to the significant Fondation Pierre Gianadda, which houses a Gallo-Roman Museum, a car museum, and hosts major art exhibitions. For animal lovers, Barryland (Musée et Chiens du Saint-Bernard) is dedicated to the history of Saint Bernard dogs and even has a dedicated area for viewing puppies.
Where can I find impressive natural features or viewpoints around Martigny?
The region offers several stunning natural sights. The Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls provide a dramatic experience with boardwalks and tunnels through imposing cliffs. For panoramic views, consider hiking to Dent de Nendaz, which offers excellent vistas of the Mont Blanc range. The Gorges du Trient, carved by glacial waters, are also popular for their deep ravines and boardwalks.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Martigny's attractions?
Martigny is an excellent base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails in the surrounding Swiss Alps. For waterfall enthusiasts, explore routes like the 'Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls loop from Bovernier' found in the Waterfall hikes around Martigny guide. Cyclists can enjoy diverse routes, including the 'Valais Vineyard Trail: Martigny to Sion' from the Cycling around Martigny guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions around Martigny?
Families can enjoy Barryland (Musée et Chiens du Saint-Bernard), where children can learn about and see Saint Bernard dogs and their puppies. The Saillon Medieval Village also offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. Additionally, the dramatic Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls with its boardwalks can be an exciting adventure for older children.
What are some unique natural landmarks or hidden gems in the Martigny area?
Beyond the well-known sites, consider visiting the Farinet Footbridge, a vertiginous bridge over a deep ravine with a waterfall, offering a spectacular path. Another serene spot is Lac des Vaux, a peaceful mountain lake popular with hikers and cyclists in summer, and even suitable for a brave swim.
What is the best time to visit Martigny to enjoy its attractions?
Martigny's attractions can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best time often depends on your interests. Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking and exploring natural sites like the gorges and mountain passes, as well as enjoying the vineyards. Early autumn is notable for the traditional cow fights held at the Roman Amphitheater. Cultural institutions like the Fondation Pierre Gianadda are open year-round.
Can I find good hiking opportunities with scenic views near Martigny?
Absolutely. Martigny is surrounded by excellent hiking terrain. The Col de la Forclaz (Valais) offers scenic views and is a starting point for various trails. For a challenging hike with rewarding panoramas, consider the Pierre Avoi Summit. Many trails lead to stunning viewpoints across the Rhône Valley and the Valais mountains.
Are there any mountain huts or places to rest during longer hikes?
Yes, several mountain huts provide rest and refreshments. The Rambert SAC Hut and Cabane du Fenestral are popular options, offering facilities, restaurants, and often accommodation, making them great destinations or stops on longer treks.
What are some unique transportation experiences or day trips from Martigny?
For a unique journey, take the Mont Blanc Express, a narrow-gauge railway that offers a scenic ride to Chamonix, France. While not a day trip from Martigny itself, the nearby Thermal Baths of Saillon offer a relaxing option for visitors looking to unwind.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Martigny?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from summits like Dent de Nendaz, often noting the excellent perspective of the Mont Blanc massif. The unique experience of crossing the Farinet Footbridge is also a highlight, described as 'vertiginous' and 'spectacular'. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Lac des Vaux is also highly appreciated.
Most popular routes around Martigny
Most popular attractions around Martigny
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