Turtmann: Culture Trail, History and Valais Delights

Turtmann lies on the southern side of the Rhône Valley in the canton of Valais, at the foot of the Ergischhorn; the Turtmänna runs along the western side of the village. When choosing a place to stay, consider the specific cultural and natural attractions here: an award-winning village trail, paths in the Turtmanntal valley, seasonal events, and insights into cheese and wine production. This will help you decide whether Turtmann suits the themes of your trip.

Culture Trail and Village History

The Turtmann Culture Trail was inaugurated in 2004 as a cultural and historical walk. This award-winning village tour can be explored independently on foot. It starts at the church; information panels at 18 historic buildings provide details of their key features. The route combines a walk through the village with specific information about its history.

Turtmann was first mentioned in an official document in 1210 as Terra de Thortemane. The transfer of goods at the Sust Turtmann on the Simplon route reached its first peak in the 13th and 14th centuries. The trade connections across the Simplon, which intensified in the 16th and 17th centuries, were linked to the emergence of the merchant families’ patrician houses in the village. These historical details place Turtmann’s development in several distinct periods.

The history of the routes can also be traced through various dates. A hike from Turtmann leads to a historic mule track, first shown on maps in 1842 as a connection between the Rhône Valley and the Turtmanntal valley. Turtmann is also linked to the historic Route du Simplon. Its oldest section was built between 1810 and 1820; one side of the original five-kilometre poplar avenue remains.

Nature and Trails in the Turtmanntal Valley

The Turtmann waterfall is 42 metres high and also marks the beginning of the wild and romantic Turtmanntal valley. On a hike from Turtmann, protected pheasant’s eye flowers bloom from April to mid-May. The flowering period can vary depending on conditions, so it is worth checking the latest information when planning. In the Turtmanntal valley, you can explore the landscape on foot, by mountain bike or, in winter, on ski tours; winter activities depend on the weather.

The area therefore offers both a specific historical connection and a seasonal nature experience for hikers. The mule track is associated with the former route between two valleys, while the pheasant’s eye bloom is a spring experience that lasts for a limited time. If you are interested in both, take the season into account and check the flowering period before your trip.

Village Life and Seasonal Events

Gigäli-Mentag on Carnival Monday is part of Turtmann’s club and village life. The event includes traditional masked revelry and Guggenmusik bands. Another recurring event is the Püru-Märt Cultura, held every year on the last Saturday in September. It includes a children’s area with various games, numerous market stalls and many animals each year. Details may vary from one edition to another, so check the date for your chosen year.

Cheese and Wine from Turtmann

At the cheese dairy in Turtmann, visitors can learn how Raclette cheese is made. In the showroom, they can see how 320 tonnes of Raclette du Valais AOP Wallis 65 are produced each year. Anyone interested in regional cheese production can find out about both the production process and the specific annual output. Confirm the participation details before you arrive.

At the DIROSO wine cellar, in the middle of Turtmann’s vineyards, visitors can take part in a guided tour. The experience includes a guided tasting accompanied by a platter of Valais specialities. If you plan to visit, check the booking details before you travel.

Getting There and Planning

Turtmann is served regularly by regional trains on the Simplon line. Check the timetable before travelling. The cable car from Turtmann to Oberems can significantly shorten the ascent; check availability and operating hours before setting off.

When choosing a hotel, consider the focus of your trip: village history and historic routes, nature in the Turtmanntal valley, or a seasonal market, cheese or wine visit. The flowering period is in spring, and the market takes place on the last Saturday in September; the culture trail offers its own way to discover the village’s history.

Discover more destinations: Gampel, Varen, Niedergampel, Gampel-Bratsch, Erschmatt, Guttet-Feschel, Inden, Agarn.

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