Valais

The Valais without doubt is the undiscovered Canton. There are over 50 indigenous grape varieties and some 300 wineries to explore; fields of minerals; climb peaks of mountains conquered in the 19th century by Winston Churchill and Teddy Roosevelt; relax in the many thermal baths; and hike along the ancient water channels.

One of the fascinating museums to visit is the Kippel of horror masks. These were worn by the beggar thieves who would frighten people and steal from them. You can get lessons to carve your own mask which is fun. Another one-off thing to do is to watch a cow fight. It’s the Swiss equivalent of cricket. You stand around with your beer or glass of wine and see cows from different herds push each other out of a ring. The last one standing is the winner!