Hiking in Switzerland: Lake Derborence, Valais
Article updated on 08.26.24
If you’re looking for a hike in Valais that combines tranquillity, natural beauty and accessibility, the hike around Lake of Derborence is ideal for you. Whether you’re with the family or just looking for a peaceful stroll, this hike promises total immersion in an enchanting setting. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this outing.
How to get there ?
The starting point for this hike is about 40 minutes’ drive from Sion. The road to the lake is winding, so take your time to enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way.
Parking available (still free in July 2024) :
- GPS coordinates : [46.28046, 7.21544]
If you’re travelling with a dog, you should know that this hike is dog-friendly, but your companion will need to be kept on a lead to protect the local wildlife.
Please note that Lake of Derborence is a nature reserve, which means that camping/vanlife is prohibited.
Hiking around Lake Derborence
The walk around the lake is short but beautiful. It’s a loop of around 1.5 km with no elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxing family stroll. The route is well marked.
The hike above Lake of Derborence
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the lake from higher up, you can extend the walk. If you climb a little higher, you can complete a 2.3 km loop with an elevation gain of 195 meters, in around 1 hour.
This option will give you a different and equally magnificent view of the lake and its surroundings.
We strongly recommend that you do both trails.
Best time to hike on the Lake of Derborence
The hike around Lake of Derborence is accessible from May to November, but October in particular is the best season in our opinion. In autumn, the flamboyant colours of the foliage create an exceptional setting that sublimates the landscape. You can see the mirror effect of the orange trees and mountains on the lake.
For a more peaceful experience, try to plan your visit during the week, as this walk is quite popular, especially at weekends.
Some recommendations
On this hike, don’t forget to respect the environment, especially given the sensitivity of the lake’s ecosystem. It is crucial not to disturb the local flora and fauna. And don’t forget that camping is forbidden on site.
Warning: don’t swim in mountain lakes!
Mountain lakes are home to highly sensitive ecosystems. Swimmers can disturb these environments by stirring up sediment, disturbing aquatic fauna and flora, and introducing foreign substances such as sun creams or other chemicals.
Hiking around the lake on Swisstopo
Find the itinerary on Swisstopo below.
If you are using a mobile device, you can open it directly on the Swisstopo application by clicking here..
Hiking above the lake on Swisstopo
Find the itinerary on Swisstopo below.
If you are using a mobile device, you can open it directly on the Swisstopo application by clicking here..
Lac de Derborence is a real natural gem that’s well worth the diversions. Although short, this hike offers breathtaking panoramas and a complete immersion in Valais nature. Respect the rules of the nature reserve and enjoy this wonderful outdoor getaway.
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