Trekking in Nendaz: Three Days Between Lakes and Mountain Huts

Above the Rhône Valley, Nendaz reveals in summer a mountain very different from its winter face. Over three days, the route links Veysonnaz to Nendaz through alpine pastures, scree slopes, high-altitude lakes and mountain huts, with the great peaks of Valais in the background.

Day 1 : climb up to Essertze

The start from Veysonnaz gradually leaves the villages behind. The climb crosses alpine pastures before reaching the Essertze hut, perched at 2 191 meters. Along the way, the Essertze gouilles form a succession of small water mirrors around 2 300 meters above sea level.

The terrain becomes distinctly alpine: a few patches of snow may still remain at the start of summer, and the panorama opens out toward Mont Rouge and the Valais peaks. This first stage immediately sets the tone for the trek.

A night in a hut, far from the daily routine

The hut is an integral part of the experience. A simple meal is shared there, along with the day’s impressions and an unadorned evening. In the morning, departure is early, when the light is still soft and the mountain has regained its calm.

Day 2 : head for Lake Cleuson

The second day leads to the Saint-Laurent hut, perched at 2 485 meters. The trail alternates between rocky sections, streams and wide-open views. Little by little, Lake Cleuson appears, recognizable by its almost unreal turquoise water.

Its dam, about 420 meters long and 87 meters high, highlights the scale of the landscape. From Siviez, several routes allow you to reach the lake in two to three hours; as part of the trek from Essertze, the stage is naturally longer.

Day 3 : descend back to Nendaz

The final stage gradually brings you back to Nendaz. Rock gives way to meadows and then forests, while the bisses recall the ancient link between the mountain and the villages. It is a transition day, ideal for taking stock of how far you have come.

With a bit of discretion, you may observe marmots, birds of prey and sometimes ibex. Alpine flora also lines the trail, but it is fragile: it is best not to pick anything and to stay on the path.

Preparing the trek in Nendaz

• Level: a route intended for trained hikers, able to complete three days in alpine terrain.
• Season: generally from late June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions, weather and hut opening times.
• Reservations: contact the huts in advance and confirm their accommodation conditions.
• Equipment: suitable footwear, warm and waterproof clothing, sun protection, water, snacks and a first-aid kit.
• Safety: check trail conditions and the local weather; adjust or postpone the route if conditions require it.

Three days to experience the mountain differently

This trek is less about performance than about variety: an isolated hut, high-altitude lakes, a night beneath the peaks and the gradual discovery of Nendaz’s landscape. Each stage brings its own atmosphere without ever breaking the thread of the adventure.

For those who enjoy hiking for several days, traveling light and slowing down, this route offers a fine first immersion in Valais alpine trekking.