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Bike touring routes & trails

Rhone and Vineyard Trail Loop

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Rhone and Vineyard Trail Loop

Moderate

4.4

(47)

542

riders

Rhone and Vineyard Trail Loop

Q: What is the typical duration for cycling this loop?

The Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny is approximately 55 km long and typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete by touring bicycle. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

Q: Is this cycling route suitable for beginners?

This route is considered moderate and generally suitable for most skill levels, though good fitness is recommended. While much of the Rhône Route in Valais is level, this loop can include gentle slopes and some sections, like the 'Chemin du vignoble', feature vigorous ups and downs through vineyards.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny?

The terrain is predominantly paved, consisting of asphalt, paved roads, and dedicated cycleways. You will also encounter some sections of compacted gravel, with very minimal unpaved parts. Be aware that some vineyard sections can have more challenging gradients.

Q: Where can I park to access the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny?

You can typically find parking in the towns of Sion or Martigny, which serve as excellent starting and ending points for the loop. Look for public parking facilities within these towns.

Q: How can I reach the starting points of the loop using public transport?

Both Sion and Martigny are well-connected by public transport, particularly by train. You can easily reach either town by rail, making it convenient to start and finish your cycling tour without needing a car.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

The route offers diverse and captivating scenery. You'll cycle through lush green vineyards and extensive fruit and vegetable fields, with impressive views of the high-alpine landscape, including the Dents du Midi and distant snow-capped Alps. Charming villages dot the route, and the path often runs alongside the Rhône river, providing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Notably, the route features 21 stained glass windows, especially along the Stained glass path in Saillon, Valais .

Q: Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the way?

Yes, the route passes several notable points. You can visit the Domaine des Îles , the Les Epines Nature Reserve , and the Saint Symphorien Church, Fully . The route also includes sections of the Valais Vineyard Route , offering opportunities to explore the region's wine culture. Sion and Martigny themselves are rich in history, with castles and Roman influences.

Q: What is the best time of year to cycle this loop?

The best time to cycle this loop is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is usually pleasant for cycling, and the vineyards are vibrant. Be aware that a 'Valais headwind' can blow up the valley, especially in the afternoon, so planning your ride to avoid strong afternoon winds can enhance your experience.

Q: Is the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny dog-friendly?

While the route itself is generally accessible, specific rules for dogs may vary in certain nature reserves or public areas along the path. It's best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are comfortable with cycling alongside you for this distance.

Q: Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this cycling route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny. It is a public cycling route. However, any attractions or facilities you choose to visit along the way may have their own entry fees.

03:08

55.0km

120m

Cycling

This moderate 34.2-mile touring cycling loop from Sion to Martigny follows the Rhône, offering vineyard views and historic charm.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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4.04 km

Domaine des Îles

Highlight • Lake

A pleasant place to take a break during walks or bike trips. Property of the Bourgeoisie of Sion, the Domaine des Îles extends over more than 54 hectares and presents itself as a place of relaxation and leisure, ideal for outings with family or friends (picnic, restaurant, campsite nearby , swimming, walks in the trees). les-iles.bourgeoisie-de-sion.ch/fr/accueil

Translated by Google •

Tip by

6.23 km

Les Epines Nature Reserve

Highlight • Natural Monument

Detailed explanations on the website of the State of Valais: "Returned to the wild following several renaturations, this former gravel pit offers an ideal refuge for many species, which have become rare in the Valais plain due to the disappearance of their habitats. Composed of a mosaic of environments (expanses of deep water, permanent or temporary ponds, gravelly banks, reedbeds, shreds of riparian forests, bushes, etc.), the site attracts a particular and varied fauna and flora. " https ://vs.ch/web/sites-naturels-proteges/les-epines

Translated by Google •

Tip by

8.00 km

Saillon to Sion, along the Rhône and through villages

Highlight • Cycleway

29.5 km

Saint Symphorien Church, Fully

Highlight • Religious Site

Church of St-Symphorien, Fully
In the Middle Ages, Fully belonged to the large parish of Saillon. When the community became an independent parish, it received its first church around 1276. This early church, probably built in the Romanesque style, was replaced by a new Gothic building in the 15th century and again by a new church in 1747. The building gave the neighboring district of Fully the name Vers l’Eglise.
The new church dates from the 1930s. It was built according to plans by the architect Lucien Praz and consecrated on October 26, 1936 by Bishop Viktor Bieler.
The church tower of the previous church from 1747 was preserved and appears somewhat modest next to the mighty church building. The five bells date from different eras; they were cast in 1731, 1786, 1871, 1892 and 1986.
The church of Saint-Symphorien on the coat of arms of the municipality of Fully
In 1987 the church, which is protected as a historical monument, underwent careful restoration.
The parish church of Fully is described as the largest church in the diocese of Sion. It is 56.5 m long and 22 m wide. Its axis, like that of the previous churches, is oriented towards the north-northwest. The main facade stands on the narrow square next to the village street Rue de l'Eglise and the apse faces the mountain slope under the Sex Carro. In front of the southern front with the church portal there is an arcade that runs next to the church to the church tower about a dozen meters away. The main facade is clad in tuff and has three very high frescoes depicting the church patrons Ursus, Symphorianus and Gotthard. Next to the large central nave under a gable roof are the two narrow side aisles with flat roofs. The apse forms a wide semicircle.
The rich interior design was planned by the artist Edmond Bille and partly carried out himself. On the choir wall there is a large-format fresco that Edmond Bille installed together with the Valais artists Paul Monnier, Albert Chavaz and Joseph Gautschi. The mural shows the suffering of the Gallic martyr Symphorinaus in the lower section and the Majestas Domini Christus on a rainbow with two angels and the four evangelists in the upper section.
The main altar contains relics of the church patron and the side altars contain those of Saints Beatus and Agapus.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St-Symphorien_(Fully)

Translated by Google •

Tip by

36.7 km

Stained glass path in Saillon, Valais

Highlight • Trail

Stained glass trail in Saillon. The path begins near the statue of Farinet, on the square that bears his name, at the foot of the medieval village. In less than an hour, it connects the plain to the hill through the picturesque village and the generous vineyard

The route is dotted with 21 stained glass windows, “diamonds sparkling in the sun with the Rhône valley as a cathedral”, works by Robert Héritier for the graphics and Théo Imboden for the glass work.
saillon.ch/tourisme/culture/farinet/le-sentier-des-vitraux.aspx

Translated by Google •

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44.3 km

Valais Vineyard Route

Highlight • Cycleway

A winding road, winding through the vineyards of the Rhone Valley, an important part of the region's image and history. This and surrounding roads are at the foot of the valley, meaning they are gentle and flat - a welcome change from many of the passes and climbs in the area.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

55.0 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

20.7 km

14.2 km

9.62 km

7.21 km

2.81 km

443 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

49.6 km

3.09 km

1.50 km

616 m

166 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Thursday 14 May

9°C

2°C

64 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical duration for cycling this loop?

The Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny is approximately 55 km long and typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete by touring bicycle. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

Is this cycling route suitable for beginners?

This route is considered moderate and generally suitable for most skill levels, though good fitness is recommended. While much of the Rhône Route in Valais is level, this loop can include gentle slopes and some sections, like the 'Chemin du vignoble', feature vigorous ups and downs through vineyards.

What is the terrain like on the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny?

The terrain is predominantly paved, consisting of asphalt, paved roads, and dedicated cycleways. You will also encounter some sections of compacted gravel, with very minimal unpaved parts. Be aware that some vineyard sections can have more challenging gradients.

Where can I park to access the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny?

You can typically find parking in the towns of Sion or Martigny, which serve as excellent starting and ending points for the loop. Look for public parking facilities within these towns.

How can I reach the starting points of the loop using public transport?

Both Sion and Martigny are well-connected by public transport, particularly by train. You can easily reach either town by rail, making it convenient to start and finish your cycling tour without needing a car.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

The route offers diverse and captivating scenery. You'll cycle through lush green vineyards and extensive fruit and vegetable fields, with impressive views of the high-alpine landscape, including the Dents du Midi and distant snow-capped Alps. Charming villages dot the route, and the path often runs alongside the Rhône river, providing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Notably, the route features 21 stained glass windows, especially along the Stained glass path in Saillon, Valais.

Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the way?

Yes, the route passes several notable points. You can visit the Domaine des Îles, the Les Epines Nature Reserve, and the Saint Symphorien Church, Fully. The route also includes sections of the Valais Vineyard Route, offering opportunities to explore the region's wine culture. Sion and Martigny themselves are rich in history, with castles and Roman influences.

What is the best time of year to cycle this loop?

The best time to cycle this loop is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is usually pleasant for cycling, and the vineyards are vibrant. Be aware that a 'Valais headwind' can blow up the valley, especially in the afternoon, so planning your ride to avoid strong afternoon winds can enhance your experience.

Is the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny dog-friendly?

While the route itself is generally accessible, specific rules for dogs may vary in certain nature reserves or public areas along the path. It's best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are comfortable with cycling alongside you for this distance.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this cycling route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Loop along the Rhône — Sion to Martigny. It is a public cycling route. However, any attractions or facilities you choose to visit along the way may have their own entry fees.

Does this route connect with other cycling paths?

Yes, this loop is a significant part of the larger Rhône Cycle Route (Swiss National Cycle Route No. 1 / EuroVelo 17), which extends from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. Specifically, it covers 54% of the Rhône-Route and 32% of the Chemin du Vignoble, among other local paths.