Rhone and Vineyard Trail 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.