Nendaz Trekking day 3 | Long trek
Summer hikes
The third day of your adventure around the Val de Nendaz leads you from the Saint-Laurent cabin to the Balavaux cabine via the Dent de Nendaz.
- Picnic area available
- Panorama / belvedere
Walk along the turquoise waters of Cleuson Lake (2'186 metres), cross the dam and go down towards Siviez by a small footpath in the forest.
When you arrive in the heights of Siviez, walk uphill towards Basso d’Alou and reach Tracouet by following the ridge to the legendary Dent de Nendaz (2'463 metres). From the summit, enjoy the panoramic view over the lac Noir, the Alpes and the Rhone Valley. At Tracouet (2'200 metres), you can stop for a break at the restaurant before continuing downhill to the Balavaux pastures where the raclette cheese is made throughout the summer. The Balavaux cabin is located near to the mountain dairy at 2’038 metres above sea level.
The building of the cabin began in 1973 and was mostly carried out by volunteers. Belonging to the Ski Club of Isérables, it now accommodates guests with its showers, its kitchen as well as its sun-drenched terrace offering a panoramic view over the largest Larch trees of Europe.
Beware ! The ridge between Basso d’Alou and the Dent de Nendaz includes some fairly technical passages, of which one especially equipped with metallic steps. It is not recommended for hikers with little or no training. If this is the case, there is an alternative route by going directly to the Balavaux pastures from Basso d’Alou.