Champéry, the picturesque Alpine village nestled in the Portes du Soleil ski area, offers a range of exciting activities for visitors all year round, making it a great choice for property investment. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast with a love of adventure sports or simply seeking relaxation amid stunning natural surroundings, Champéry has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to see and do in this charming Alpine paradise.
Discovering Champéry
The resort town of Champéry has a rich history dating all the way back to the 16th century and is renowned for its traditional Swiss architecture and warm hospitality. The town is situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps in the Canton of Valais, surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking. There are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, including art and culture, wellness centres, and spas. Once you’ve had a long day exploring the region, there’s also a selection of bars and restaurants to choose from.
A Brief History of Champéry
Champéry was originally a farming community, and the town’s rich agricultural heritage can still be seen in the traditional Swiss chalets that dot the landscape. The town has come a long way since its humble beginnings, and today it is a thriving tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. The town’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, with many of the buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries and it manages to keep a variety of traditions mostly shown in its annual festivals.
One of the biggest developments in Champéry’s history is its role in winter sports. The town was one of the first in Switzerland to embrace skiing as a recreational activity, and it quickly became a popular destination for skiers from all over Europe. Today, Champéry is one of the top destinations for winter sports enthusiasts across the world, with its renowned ski slopes and modern facilities and cable car network with connections to the Portes Du Soleil.
Outdoor Activities in Champéry
Champéry is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise all year around, with a range of activities to suit every taste and level of fitness. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a peaceful and relaxing day, Champéry has something for everyone. Making it not only a great place to spend your time with a second-home in the resort, but also as an investment in a very popular resort with confidence that there will always be rental demand.
Skiing and Snowboarding
With 650km of pistes and 200 ski lifts across its huge skiable area spanning to France, it is one of the largest ski areas in the world. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland. The resort also boasts a snow park, a half-pipe, and a boardercross course, making it a popular destination for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
Hiking and Mountain Biking
In the summer months, Champéry’s stunning natural surroundings make it the perfect destination for hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can explore the area’s many trails, taking in breathtaking mountain views and pristine alpine lakes. The resort offers a range of guided hikes and mountain bike tours, catering to all levels of fitness and experience. For a more challenging adventure, visitors can tackle the iconic Tour du Ruan, a multi-day trek that takes hikers through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps.
Another popular hiking and biking trail near Champéry is the Dents du Midi Circuit. This scenic route takes adventurers on a captivating journey around the impressive Dents du Midi mountain range. The trail offers a variety of challenging sections, rewarding hikers and bikers with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, trekkers can discover charming alpine villages and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the surrounding nature. Whether you choose to hike or bike, the Dents du Midi Circuit is an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and grandeur of the Swiss Alps.
Paragliding and Adventure Sports
For the most adventurous, Champéry offers a range of adrenaline-fueled activities. Paragliding is a popular choice, with visitors soaring high above the mountains and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Para Fly Champéry provides professional paragliding services, offering tandem flights and courses for beginners and experienced flyers alike.
Thrill-seekers can also indulge in other exhilarating adventure sports such as canyoning and rock climbing. Local company Portes du Soleil organises guided canyoning expeditions in nearby Morzine, where participants can navigate through narrow gorges, rappel down waterfalls, and plunge into crystal-clear pools.
The resort also offers ziplining, bungee jumping, and via Ferrata, a thrilling climbing experience that involves scaling a rock face using steel cables and ladders. These activities are sure to get the heart racing and provide unforgettable memories.
Exploring the Dents du Midi
The Dents du Midi is a range of towering mountain peaks that dominate the Champéry area. You can explore the area on foot or by cable car, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine landscape. The cable car ride to the top of the peak is an experience in itself, offering panoramic views of the valley below. At the top, you can enjoy a meal at the mountain restaurant or take a guided tour of the area.
Champéry is a year-round destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in this picturesque Alpine village.
Indoor Activities and Relaxation
When it’s time to take a break from outdoor activities, Champéry also offers a range of indoor activities to enjoy. Whether you want to relax and rejuvenate or stay active, there is something for everyone.
Champéry’s Wellness Centers and Spas
For visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Champéry has a range of wellness centres and spas. One popular wellness centre in Champéry is the Thermes Parc. Situated at the foot of the Dents du Midi mountain range, it features a variety of indoor and outdoor thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Visitors can relax in the warm waters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding alpine scenery. The centre also offers a range of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, providing a complete wellness experience.
Indoor Sports Facilities
For those who prefer to stay active when indoors, Champéry offers a range of indoor sports facilities. The Palladium Sports Center is a state-of-the-art facility that includes a swimming pool, ice rink, climbing wall, and gym. You can also try your hand at squash or tennis on the indoor courts. The centre offers activities for all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for families.
A good selection of our properties for sale in Champéry also offers a fitness suite and/or pool so that you can easily exercise and stay active within the comfort of your home.
Art and Culture in Champéry
Champéry, having such a rich history also has a strong cultural heritage, with a range of museums and exhibitions exploring the town’s history and traditions. The Champéry-Palladium Cultural Center is a hub of artistic activity, with a diverse program of concerts, theatrical performances, and other cultural events throughout the year. The centre also hosts exhibitions showcasing local artists and photographers.
For those interested in history, the Champéry Museum is a must-visit. The museum showcases the town’s development over the centuries, including its evolution from a farming community to a popular tourist destination. The museum also features exhibits of traditional crafts, such as woodworking and lace-making.
In conclusion, Champéry is a truly unique destination, offering a range of indoor and outdoor activities to suit every taste and season. Investing in a property in Champéry means a guarantee of having many an activity to choose from regardless of the time of year.
