Mex Vs: Hiking and Mountain Views

Mex Vs is a locality and former municipality in the canton of Valais, in the district of Saint-Maurice. The mountain village lies at an altitude of 1,118 metres and offers sweeping views down over the Rhône plain. Hiking trails from Mex lead to alpine pastures, viewpoints and notable destinations in the surrounding area. When choosing a route, its course and the characteristics described for it are particularly worth considering.

Hiking from Mex: Different Trails and Destinations

The hike to Col du Jorat starts in Mex and reaches an altitude of 2,210 metres. Along the way, the route offers views of the Salanfe plateau. A family hike between Salvan and Lac d’Emosson can also start in Mex and pass over Col du Jorat. The alpine pastures around Mex can be reached on foot in one to two hours—a specific time estimate for this destination, not for the other routes described.

A circular hike to L’Aiguille de Mex leads from the village via the Les Planets alpine pasture. At the destination, there are unobstructed panoramic views in every direction. Another route leads from the foot of Cime de l’Est to the wild-looking Au de Mex alpine pasture; Cime de l’Est is 3,178 metres high. Some sections of the trail are exposed. Mex is also a stage on the Tour des Dents du Midi and the Tour des Deux Rives.

The routes also differ in difficulty and trail character. The Chemin de la carrière is a difficult route, 11.71 kilometres long: it descends from Mex to the plain and returns via the old quarry path. By contrast, the scenic Tour des chalets is described as easy and leads to a spacious esplanade. Various structures from the former construction site of the Saint-Barthélémy dams can still be seen there.

The Sentier du Scex Blanc leads from the heights of Mex along a forested path to the Orgères and then to Les Planets, where there are several viewpoints. In winter, it can be traversed with snowshoes and short skins, depending on snow and trail conditions. The La Chaux route can also be traversed with snowshoes in winter. Check the conditions on each route before setting out.

Local History and Special Features

Local history also includes a local legend: according to tradition, three men sentenced to death defeated an Ouïvre and were then granted the region to settle. The place name Mex is documented from 1298 in the form “Meys”. A small chapel in Mex is dedicated to Saint Florentin; a mass is held there.

The Four Al’Pain association maintains bread-making as a traditional cultural heritage and follows a recurring baking calendar. On baking days, freshly baked farmhouse bread and multigrain bread are available. Before travelling, check the dates and any ordering requirements.

The Auberge de l’Armailli serves local, seasonal produce from short supply chains, including cheese from the regional alpine pastures. Mountain dishes include fondue, cheese crusts, alpine cheese raclette and homemade rösti. You can check the food selection and service before your trip. This way, a hiking stay in Mex can be combined with insights into local bread and food culture.

Discover more destinations: Vérossaz, Salvan, Massongex, Saint-Maurice Vs, Dorénaz, Vernayaz, Finhaut.

Go to the main travel overview: Saint-Maurice.