Saint-Martin Vs: Trails, Springs and Village Culture

Saint-Martin Vs can be explored from several different perspectives: springs, protected landscapes, trails with varying estimated times, and traditional village architecture. When planning your trip, you can decide whether nature watching, exercise or the history of the villages should take centre stage.

Springs and Landscapes

The villages of Saint-Martin lie on the right bank of the Val d’Hérens. The Vallon de Réchy is a protected area between the Val d’Hérens and the Val d’Anniviers, shaped by high-altitude moors and alpine meadows. Recommended access points include the Col de Cou, the Pas de Loveignoz and the Cabane des Becs de Bosson. From the summit of Bec de Bosson, you can take in views of Saint-Martin and three other villages.

The Saint-Martin area is considered a protected natural environment stretching from the hot springs of Combioula to the summit of La Maya. The thermomineral springs have been known since the 15th century; their water emerges at 26 °C. Access to the Combioula caves is prohibited by official decision. Check the current regulations before planning a visit.

Trails and Time Required

The Parcours VITA de Saint-Martin is an accessible fitness trail in the forest. Its 15 stations offer a total of 43 exercises for endurance, strength, coordination and flexibility. The trail is 2.5 kilometres long, with 92 metres of ascent and descent, and takes approximately 45 minutes.

On the Sentier des chants d'oiseaux, QR-code signs provide information about six bird species characteristic of Saint-Martin’s biotopes: the red-backed shrike, the Bonelli's warbler, the yellowhammer, the green woodpecker, the kestrel and the swift. You can also listen to the birds’ calls via the signs. This accessible, playful and educational trail runs between Trogne and Eison.

The moderately difficult Chemin des villages de Saint-Martin circular trail is 11.9 kilometres long and takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. It alternates between ascents and gentler sections, offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks. This trail also passes through villages with traditional architecture. The shorter Bisses d'Ossona et Sevanne hike is around 3.3 kilometres long and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. At approximately 45 minutes, the Parcours VITA has the shortest estimated time of these routes. Check the latest route information before setting out; distances may change if a diversion is in place.

The Les trois alpages trail connects the alpine pastures of L'A Vieille, Lovégno and La Louère. In summer, hikers may see herds there and stop at alpine pasture refreshment huts; the availability of individual huts may vary. Also in summer, a shuttle runs from Saint-Martin to the L'A Vieille alpine pasture on Thursdays; hikes between Lovégno and La Louère are then offered. If you plan to take the shuttle, it is worth checking the timetable.

Village Culture and Ossona

The Bisse d'Ossona was reconstructed in the 2000s, preserving its traditional route and original construction. It is still used for irrigation, either by sprinkler or through open channels. Traditional wooden buildings in the villages of Saint-Martin include barns, alpine chalets, stables and houses shared by several families.

Praz-Jean is home to a small museum dedicated to the former Comtesse mine. In Ossona, meadows, orchards and cereal fields contribute to particularly rich biodiversity. The inn there serves dishes made with local products; its offerings may vary by season.

Discover more destinations: Ayent, Vex, Mase, Eison, Les Agettes, Evolène, Les Masses, Vex.

For the main travel overview: Hérens.