The best things to do in Valais this autumn

Match the golden autumnal colours around you with a nugget of real gold – if you’re lucky. The village of Gondo has a fascinating history of gold-mining, which visitors can learn about before setting off to the mines themselves to try their luck. You’ll be given all the equipment and then it’s up to you to pan in the Grosses Wasser river, searching for those elusive gold specks. Who knows, you may come back from the trip with an invaluable, shiny souvenir.

If you’re going to learn a new skill on holiday, it might as well be a memorable one – and that’s exactly what the alphorn will do. Get an introduction to playing this marvellous and traditional Swiss instrument, which isn’t as easy as it looks, but is hugely rewarding once you know the techniques needed. Combine your newfound alphorn skills with a trip deep into the Nendaz forests, where you’ll learn about the incredible trees surrounding you, giving you an even richer appreciation for the Swiss autumn.

Hire an e-bike to make the most of this day trip, as you’ll be able to zoom up Alp Chemeuille with minimal effort, before heading down the other side through forest trails, arriving at the shimmering Lac d’Arbey. Here, it’s time to relax and refuel, as you grab something from the café or break out your pre-prepared feast at the picnic tables. Afterwards, chat to one of the local cattle-breeders, who’ll tell you more about the wonderful Hérens cows as you stand amongst them with a glass of wine.

The sprawling Fee Gorge is a scary sight at first, but with an experienced guide it becomes a lot of fun. Your guide will escort you on the route beginning at Saas-Fee, making your way past waterfalls and rolling hills, and across gently swaying suspension bridges and rockfaces, all leading to the main attraction to complete the final part of the journey: the zip-line. Leave your fear behind and glide safely down on an exhilarating ride, arriving at Saas-Grund with a new sense of achievement. It’s the perfect way to make the most of that warmer autumn weather before winter arrives.

This peaceful village quietly holds some surprising secrets within it. The earth pyramids of Euseigne are a jaw-dropping natural phenomenon, created by erosion during the Ice Age, but looking like monuments from another world. With some reaching up to 15 metres high, they really do need to be seen to be believed. Catch your breath and then continue on to the Borgne river, where you’ll find the famous Combioula Hot Springs. The geothermal water here flows roughly between 26-28°C – ideal for a refreshing and relaxing dip after a long walk. Finally, make your way to Luette by traversing the 133 metre-long Grande Combe suspension bridge, taking-in the views if you’re brave enough to turn your head for a few seconds!

Is there anything more autumnal than a hike? We don’t think so and neither will you when you set off on this popular and unarguably beautiful route from Riederalp to the Bettmerhorn. The first stop is Riederfurka, where you should absolutely visit the Pro Natura Centre Aletsch (set in the gorgeous Villa Cassel building) to discover more about the area’s ecosystems and nature. Next, you’ll trek through the wild and rugged Aletsch Forest, past 900-year-old pine trees, before arriving at Moosfluh to enjoy superb views of the magnificent Aletsch Glacier – a prime photo opportunity, for sure. Complete the trail by hopping into the cable car to Bettmeralp, which makes a much-deserved treat for weary legs after that glorious hike.