Riddes, Martigny, Wallis, Switzerland Chalet Accommodation

Why Riddes and the Valais deserve a spot on your travel radar

Set between the Rhone corridor and the snow-dusted peaks of the Swiss Alps, Riddes anchors a cluster of villages that collectively boast some of the finest mountain scenery in Europe. The region—centered on Martigny, the cultural gateway of Valais—blends Alpine charm with a surprising cultural depth: Romanesque chapels tucked into the hillside, contemporary sculpture gardens, and a wine country that rivals its better-known neighbors. For the vacation rental seeker, this means a range of settings—from hillside chalets with private hot tubs to sunlit apartments with balconies that frame the valley’s dramatic silhouettes.

Valais itself is a sun-drenched alpine corridor famous for its vineyards, glacier-fed lakes, and thermal baths. In winter, the area bursts into life with world-class skiing on the 4 Vallées circuit—including Verbier’s famed runs—while summer invites hikers, climbers, and bikers to carve through a network of trails that connect dramatic high-altitude meadows with ancient village lanes. For a group trip or a longer escape, choosing a Chalet Chalet Accommodation base in or near Riddes gives you easy access to both adrenaline-fueled days and slower, restorative evenings in a rustic-chic setting.

Where to stay: vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and chalet accommodation in Riddes and Martigny

The accommodation landscape around Riddes and Martigny is built for flexible itineraries and social energy. If you’re traveling with friends, you’ll want a vacation rental or holiday rental that offers multiple sleeping zones, robust Wi‑Fi for planning days on the slopes or the trail, and spaces that encourage group dining and conversation. Look for large living areas, well-equipped kitchens, and outdoor spaces where you can linger after sunset with a glass of local wine. For couples or solo travelers who crave a touch of luxury, stylish chalets with panoramic views, saunas, and private terraces can pair romance with outdoor adventures in equal measure.

Chalet accommodation in this area often includes features that elevate a stay: wood-beamed interiors, fireplaces that crackle with every forest aroma, and balconies that invite you to drink in the alpine light. You’ll find everything from compact mountain lodges ideal for a duo to expansive chalets designed for groups of eight, ten, or more. The architectural palette ranges from traditional Swiss alpine houses to modern, sun-drenched dwellings with floor-to-ceiling windows. Regardless of style, most properties in Riddes and the Martigny countryside prioritize comfort after a day of exploration: warm throws, fluffy robes, fast heating, and kitchens stocked for hearty, communal meals—especially when you’re cooking with seasonal mountain produce and local cheeses.

When you search for accommodations, consider proximity to key experiences. A chalet near the village center means easy access to shops, bakeries, and a weekly market, while a hillside location may offer more dramatic views and outdoor space. If you’re traveling with children or older family members, check for accessibility features and nearby trails suitable for all abilities. The benefit of booking a holiday rental in this region is not only the space you gain but the ability to craft a schedule that suits a multi‑generational or friends‑only adventure—whether you’re dedicating mornings to hot cocoa and board games or afternoons to big adventures in the mountains.

Seasonal activities: from powder days to sunlit summits

Winter adventures

Winter in Valais is a password to a playground of powder and peaks. The Riddes–Verbier area is part of the expansive 4 Vallées ski region, offering a connected network of runs that span everything from gentle greens to black-diamond challenges. If you’re staying in Riddes, you’re a short drive or shuttle ride away from some of Switzerland’s most coveted slopes, with après-ski vibes that are as stylish as they are welcoming. Rent a chalet with a cozy fireplace, or book an apartment with a terrace where you can watch the last lift glide across a starry sky. Snowshoeing and cross-country trails around the valley are perfect for a slower-but-no-less-scenic day if you want to mix in a bit of serenity with adrenaline.

Summer highlights

When summer arrives, the region shifts gears into high-alpine adventure. The valley blooms with wildflowers, and trails open up across high pastures dotted with marmots and panoramic views. Mountain biking routes range from easy forest paths to technical singletracks that reward you with mile-high swoops and airy switchbacks. If you’re into climbing or via ferrata routes, you’ll find options that suit both families and seasoned climbers. For a gentler pace, consider a hike to a glacier-fed lake or a ridge walk that ends with a well-deserved picnic featuring Valais wines and cheeses. The fresh air, long daylight hours, and dramatic scenery practically demand a stay in a chalet with outdoor seating—perfect for sunset planning sessions before hitting a wine-tasting map later in Martigny or nearby towns.

Family-friendly and social activities

Riddes and the surrounding Valais region pride themselves on accessibility and community experiences. Families will appreciate well-marked trails, kid-friendly museums, and open-air markets where you can sample regional snacks. For those traveling with friends, you’ll find the region’s culinary scene, wine routes, and vibrant festivals a few steps away, whether you’re staying in a modern apartment or a traditional chalet. The valley’s hospitality scene often includes welcome baskets, local guidebooks, and recommendations for day trips that maximize your time without overpacking the itinerary.

Local experiences and day trips you don’t want to miss

Valais is a mosaic of taste, art, and nature. Your holiday rental base in Riddes or Martigny puts you within reach of experiences that stay with you long after you’ve packed your bags again.

• Wine tastings along the Rhône valley: Valais is Switzerland’s sunniest wine region, producing crisp white wines, fruity rosés, and some of the country’s most characterful reds. Book a wine-tasting stroll through nearby vineyards, or join a guided tour that pairs vintages with small bites of local cheese and charcuterie.
• Fondation Pierre Gianadda in Martigny: If culture calls, the Gianadda Foundation blends classical and contemporary art with a rotating calendar of exhibitions. The sculpture garden outside the museum is perfect for a post-lunch stroll and photos that make good vacation instagrams.
• Aletsch Glacier day trip: A World Heritage site, the Aletsch Glacier is a dramatic reminder of nature’s scale. A day trip from Riddes can include gondola rides, short hikes, and sweeping views that will inspire your next vacation rental wish list.
• Thermal baths in Leukerbad: For a restorative break, Leukerbad’s thermal baths offer warm mineral waters and spa facilities with mountain views. It’s an ideal partner for a weekend retreat or a wind-down day after a mountain expedition.
• Farm-to-table experiences: In Valais, many restaurants and chalets host seasonal dinners that celebrate alpine produce—think fresh cheese, local honey, and game meats—paired with regional wines that showcase the terroir of the valley.
• Markets and alpine cuisine: Seasonal markets around Martigny and smaller villages offer fresh fruit, bread freshly baked in wood-fired ovens, and seasonal specialties you’ll want to recreate in your vacation rental’s kitchen.
• Adventurous day trips: Take a scenic train ride or a short drive to nearby villages for a day exploring medieval streets, chapel routes, and lookout points that reward every detour with a photo-worthy moment.

Practical planning tips for booking your chalet or vacation rental in Valais

Booking the right vacation rental or holiday rental in Riddes and the Martigny area comes down to a few practical checks. Start with location: decide if you want to be steps from the village life or perched on the hillside for expansive valley views. Check the kitchen layout and cookware—especially if you plan to cook with local products or arrange a cooking night with friends. Look for a reliable heat source in winter, a good heating system, and insulation that keeps the chalet cozy on cold evenings.

Travel logistics matter too. In winter, a car can be useful for excursions, but many travelers enjoy the region’s connected transport network. Some resorts offer shuttle services to and from the main ski areas. In summer, you’ll have better public transit connectivity to Martigny, where you can catch trains along the valley to more remote trailheads. If you’re planning long weekends or multiple trips in a season, consider a rental that offers flexible check-in times, a dedicated parking space, and clear instructions for heat control and waste disposal.

Pet-friendly options exist, but they’re not universal, so filter by “pets allowed” if your group includes furry companions. Another vital factor is the view and outdoor space. A balcony, terrace, or garden can dramatically enrich a group trip—especially when you’re sharing meals outdoors after a day on the slopes or the trails. Finally, for travelers who want a seamless planning experience, choose accommodations that provide essential services such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and kitchen essentials that save you time and money on meals during your stay.

Why a base in Riddes and Martigny works for vacation rentals and holiday rentals

The value proposition of staying in Riddes and the wider Wallis region for a vacation rental is multi-layered. You gain access to a concentration of alpine experiences—skiing, snow sports, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing—that are not only thrilling but also very social. The area’s villages offer a sense of community and authenticity, which makes a chalet stay feel like an invitation to live like a local for a while. When you’re ready to unwind, Martigny’s cultural hub and the valley’s culinary scene deliver a balance of activity and relaxation that’s hard to match in a single trip.

Additionally, the region’s accommodations brands and rental options frequently emphasize thoughtful hospitality: welcome baskets with local specialties, concierge suggestions for day trips, and connections to guides who can tailor adventures to your group’s interests. This aligns perfectly with the needs of travelers seeking both a stylish home base and an organize-and-enjoy itinerary for a week or weekend getaway.

Finding the right place: explore accommodations at searchandstay.com

When you’re ready to choose a chalet, apartment, or full vacation home in the Riddes–Martigny area, a streamlined way to compare options is essential. Visit searchandstay.com to discover a curated range of Chalet Chalet Accommodation destinations across Riddes, Martigny, and the wider Wallis region. The site makes it easy to filter by date, group size, budget, and must-have amenities, so you can quickly identify places that align with your vacation rental goals.

With searchandstay.com, you can browse photos, read guest reviews, and compare properties that suit family trips, friend getaways, or romantic alpine weekends. The platform often includes practical details like parking availability, proximity to ski lifts or hiking trails, nearest grocery options, and whether a property offers features such as hot tubs, saunas, wood-burning fireplaces, or fully equipped kitchens for unforgettable alpine feasts. By using a dedicated vacation rental search tool, you’ll save time and reduce stress—leaving more energy for planning fun itineraries, tasting local wines, and social evenings with your crew.

As you plan, keep a few pragmatic questions in mind: Are linens and towels provided, or should you plan to bring or rent them? Is there a cleaning fee, and what does it cover? How flexible are check-in and check-out times during peak seasons? Do properties offer reliable Wi-Fi for streaming, map access, and travel coordination with friends? These details often distinguish a good chalet from a great one and help ensure your group’s holiday rental experience meets every expectation.

Sample itinerary ideas for a week in Riddes and Martigny

To make the most of your vacation rentals, consider a balance of active days and relaxing evenings. Here’s a flexible week-long outline you can adapt to your group’s pace:

• Day 1: Arrival and chalet settle-in. Short exploration of the village, a welcome dinner featuring local cheeses and a bottle of Valais white, and an evening stroll to take in the mountain air.
• Day 2: Ski day in the 4 Vallées. Après-ski in Verbier or a nearby resort village, followed by a warm, hearty meal back at the chalet.
• Day 3: Snowshoeing or winter hike and a casual fondue night in the chalet kitchen.
• Day 4: Spa day in Leukerbad or a winery tour around Martigny with a wine-tasting stop and a riverside walk along the Rhône.
• Day 5: Summer-style day trip to Aletsch Glacier (season permitting) or a high-altitude hike with panoramic viewpoints, returning for a sunset barbecue.
• Day 6: Cultural immersion in Martigny—Fondation Gianadda and artisan markets—followed by a chef-guided dinner or a self-cooked alpine feast.
• Day 7: Relaxed morning in the chalet, final stroll through the valley, and a farewell brunch before departure.

Closing thoughts for travelers seeking chalet-style stays in Valais

Riddes, Martigny, and the greater Wallis region offer a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delight—all accessible from well-appointed vacation rentals and chalet accommodations. The valley’s hospitality, paired with a selection of vacation rentals and holiday rentals that cater to groups, couples, and families, provides a flexible platform for designing a holiday that matches your pace and your social calendar. Whether you’re chasing fresh powder in winter, golden light on a ridge, or the simple joy of sharing a meal with friends after a long day outdoors, this Alpine corner of Switzerland stands ready to host your memories.

For planners and spontaneous travelers alike, leveraging a dedicated site like searchandstay.com to compare chalet options, read guest reviews, and book a base in Riddes or Martigny can streamline your trip planning and maximize your vacation rental value. With the right Chalet Chalet Accommodation destinations and a well-chosen home away from home, your stay in Valais becomes more than a trip—it becomes a story you’ll tell for years to come.