Michael Behrens Q0xrmliqabm Unsplash (1)At Thyon, we have plenty of animals, wild or tame. You will be able to discover them and learn more about them.
Here you will find all the activities that will allow you to go and meet the animals of the forest.
Luke Stackpoole Skpo Smk5ts Unsplash
Francesco Tommasini 0eo4fkqmcdw Unsplash
Xavier Von Erlach Xok3j Fjtiu Unsplash(4)The marmot is the largest sleeper among the wild animals of the Valais. It lives naturally in treeless meadows above the forest limit. In Valais, the
marmot is mostly found between 2200 and 2600 meters above sea level. (Source vs.ch)
The ibex is the climber par excellence of the Valaisan ungulates. Its hooves are perfectly adapted to travel on rock faces. Their hard edges guarantee a good hold on the smallest rocks while their soft soles offer an optimal grip on smooth rock. (source vs.ch)
The Sentier des Bouquetins is an educational trail that explores the fauna, flora, history and geology of the Grande Dixence region, providing an overview of a pioneering hydroelectric complex. The trail was inaugurated in 2012 and features seven stops – including the Prafleuri hut, ideal for a drink.
Details of the walk are in an 86-page brochure available in English, German and French, which can be downloaded free of charge. Hard copies are available for purchase at the dam’s information pavilion (free admission).
The trail starts near the dam’s crown through a series of tunnels along the lake. The ascent through flowery meadows to the Col des Roux at 2803 m altitude offers good chances to see ibexes – the wild cousins of domestic goats, immediately recognizable by their beautiful arched horns. Beyond the pass, the glacial moraines of the Combe de Prafleuri provided the raw material for the dam in the form of rocks crushed into gravel.
The trail can be taken in two directions:
– either along the Lac des Dix (recommended direction, walking time to the Prafleuri hut: 02:30),
– or through the Prafleuri combe (walking time to the Prafleuri hut: 01:30).
Recommendations:
Take good shoes, a waterproof jacket, water and sun protection (cream, glasses, hat..). Path, stony and narrow in places, intended for hikers with an average physical condition and children from 8 years.
