Orsières is easy to reach from Martigny with the panoramic St. Bernhard Express. The history of the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard (Great St. Bernard Pass) has also had a decisive influence on the history of Orsières. North-south trade created prosperity but this was a double-edged sword. The town owes its first historical mention to this: in 925 the Abbot of Cluny was kidnapped near the bridge of Orsières and only released after payment of a ransom.

The intact village centre and impressive 11th century bell tower are worth seeing. The Val Ferret still has several of its community bakehouses. These were intended to reduce fire risk and are still used several times a year. The Swiss Army fortifications are a special feature and parts are open to visitors. This is organized by a private club. Orsières has an observation post, Champex a fortress.

The area has a long tradition of alp farming with cattle (with Ehringer the dominant breed) and sheep, and its raclette cheese is a favourite with connoisseurs. Cow-fighting events are held every four years. The best fighters travel to Aproz for the cantonal final.

Val Ferret and Orsières are a veritable paradise for bike tours, hiking (400 km of marked hiking trails), mountain tours and mountaineering (e.g. Aiguille d’Argentière, 3901m). The valley has extensive forests, which naturally serve a protective function but also provide habitats for a wide variety of birds and wildlife. The civic community of Orsières is the largest owner of forest in Switzerland. The wealth of Alpine flora is another feature of the area and can be admired in concentrated form in the Champex Alpine Garden.