Nestling between vineyards and forests, the little old town of Martigny marks the intersection of major roads: to Lake Geneva, the Simplon Pass, Savoy and Piedmont. It is also the home of «Barry», the St. Bernard rescue dog; this breed has its origins at the Great St. Bernard Pass. Besides hydroelectric plants, large wind turbines supply power to Valais. The windmills quietly turn, casting a moving shadow on the ground when the sun shines.

The nature reserve near Evionnaz provides an unspoilt environment for frogs, wagtails, kingfishers, great spotted woodpeckers and nuthatches. Large, hairy caterpillars can often be seen crossing the cycle path; soon they will explore their world as butterflies. The route then narrows in Saint-Maurice. The local abbey, whose treasures include exceptional examples of medieval goldsmithery, is one of Switzerland’s great art history attractions. Alternatively, you could leave the art aside and treat yourself to a fondue or raclette with a delicious white wine.

The «Chablais» region begins outside Saint-Maurice and stretches to Bouveret, where the Rhone flows into Lake Geneva. Chablais forms part of Valais to the west of the river and Vaud to the east. Cycling here has a relaxing effect. The paths are so carefully asphalted, it feels like flowing with the river: just one reason why lots of cyclists can be seen in fine weather. Many of them are elderly men taking a leisurely spin. Another meeting place for riders is the Rhone bridge at the Passerelle des Grangettes. The area around the small nearby lake is even known as «la Petite Camargue». After a pleasurable ride through the nature reserve with its rich biodiversity, your eye is suddenly drawn by the blue waters of Lake Geneva. The peaceful atmosphere soon vanishes and you’ll have to take care on the roads. Large numbers of tourists have also realised how beautiful this place is and it seems like nobody wants to miss Chillon Castle. The same goes for Montreux, where countless visitors come to enjoy the beauty of Lake Geneva.