Where to find the best views in Valais—Switzerland's most picturesque region

High up in Switzerland’s south west, Valais is where the Alps take centre stage. Here, incredible jagged peaks soar above sunlit vineyards, and glaciers scythe deep through ancient valleys scattered with quaint villages. Autumn is the ideal time to visit: trails are hushed, the air sharp and the light crystalline enough to make every ridge and summit feel as if it’s within touching distance. From the Matterhorn’s chiselled silhouette to the dramatic sweep of the Aletsch Glacier, here are four of the best viewpoints framing Valais.

Gornergrat Railway: the Matterhorn’s most iconic view

Rising to 3,089m (10,135ft), the Gornergrat summit presents one of Switzerland’s most commanding panoramas. Getting up there is part of the appeal: the century-old cogwheel Gornergrat Railway climbs from the resort of Zermatt in 33 minutes, crossing stone viaducts and pine forests before cresting magnificently above the treeline. At the top, visitors can see the Matterhorn’s distinctive angular summit — which is also visible from Zermatt below — as well as 28 other 4,000-metre peaks, their glaciers glittering under the exquisite autumn sunlight. Trails loop past still Alpine lakes as well as the terrace of the historic Kulmhotel — the highest-altitude bolthole in the Swiss Alps. Stay late if you can: once the last train departs, silence descends over the peaks, interrupted only by the whistling wind.

While you’re there: Walk 45 minutes or take the railway back down to Lake Riffelsee, where the Matterhorn’s reflection in the still water is one of Switzerland’s most photographed scenes.

Aletsch Glacier: Europe’s longest ice flow

Stretching for 12 miles, the Aletsch Glacier is a frozen river of ice and rock that’s both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the scenic anchor of the three mountain villages that make up the Aletsch Arena. The best vantage point is from the Eggishorn mountain, reached by cable-car from the village of Fiesch. This is the only place in Switzerland where you can see the full length of the glacier, which curves up towards the twinkling Bernese Alps. In autumn, the air is crisp and the crowds thin, leaving the panorama to hardy hikers and eager photographers. Trails wind through golden larch forests and past traditional Alpine huts, while information boards explain how the glacier is being affected by climate change. From this height, the vast scale of the Alps feels almost abstract — peaks jutting like ragged teeth above a silent sea of ice.

While you’re there: Take the shorter trail to Bettmerhorn viewpoint for a different perspective over the glacier and the cobalt-blue Märjelensee lake.

Mattmark Reservoir: a high-altitude oasis in Saas-Fee/Saastal

Perched prettily above the village of Saas-Almagell at 2,200m, the turquoise waters of the Mattmark Reservoir are hemmed in by epic snow-streaked summits and Europe's highest earth dam. A level trail traces the shoreline — an easy two-hour circuit that’s especially joyful in autumn, when those vivid Alpine blooms fade to russet and the clear air etches every ridge in sharp relief. For more adventures, continue into the Saastal Valley, which is surrounded by 18 4,000-metre peaks and numerous glaciers, or visit the quaint, car-free village of Saas-Fee.

While you’re there: Take the cable car from Saas-Grund to Kreuzboden, located at 2,400m above sea level, where you'll find a beautiful glacier lake and plenty of hiking trails.

Barme Plateau: Alpine tranquillity at its purest

Out in the far west of Valais, near the French border, the Barme Plateau feels blissfully isolated from the concerns of the wider world. Reached via a winding road above the village of Champéry in the Région Dents du Midi, this secluded meadow is encircled by sheer limestone cliffs and dense pine forests, and soundtracked by tinkling cowbells. September is dreamy here: the summer heat softens, trails are quiet and the first hints of autumn paint the spruces. Hike the gentle paths across the plateau, pausing at rustic mountain cafes serving cheese from nearby dairies. Look up and you’ll spot climbers tackling the pale peaks of the Dents Blanches — the range's name translates as 'white teeth.'

While you’re there: Follow the short trail to Galerie Défago, a clifftop path carved into the rock face, with knockout views over the Rhône Valley below.

(Surprised by Valais? Discover more of Switzerland here.)