Les Coteaux du Soleil
Les Coteaux du Soleil is a tourism region in the heart of the Swiss canton of Valais, grouping the communes of Ardon and Conthey near the city of Sion, the cantonal capital, between the Rhône river and the Diablerets glacier. It is a rural, sun-drenched area of terraced vineyards, hillside villages and alpine pastures, with the wild, unspoilt Derborence valley as its natural highlight. The region is dominated by its winegrowing heritage, with over 500 hectares of terraced vines, dry-stone walls and characteristic vineyard huts, as well as protected wetlands and biotopes in the Rhône plain. Numerous hiking trails, bisses (irrigation channels) and mountain paths link the valley floor to the high alps. The medieval Bourg of Conthey and its Lombarde tower form a historic centre, while the surrounding villages and mayens preserve a strong pastoral and cultural identity.
Summer activities
Summer in Les Coteaux du Soleil is defined by hiking and mountain biking. The wild Derborence valley offers numerous trails and treks through pristine landscapes, while the alps of Conthey and the Lizerne valley provide loops of varying difficulty. Two homologated mountain-bike trails and the Chemin du Vignoble cycle route cross the region, with self-service and electric bike stations and charging points. Walks through the terraced vineyards, along the bisses and around the protected wetlands and biotopes of the Rhône plain round out the summer offer.
Culture and entertainment
The region's cultural life centres on the medieval Bourg of Conthey, where the Lombarde tower houses an art gallery, a wine cellar and a reception hall, alongside the Forge museum. Numerous churches and chapels, including Romanesque and baroque gems, and the Gallo-Roman remains of Ardon testify to a rich heritage. A lively calendar of events includes wine tastings, the national grape-harvest day, art exhibitions and concerts, giving the area a distinctive festive and cultural character.
