Taking a city trip to Bex means diving into the history of salt mining while spending a relaxing mini-break in the mountains of Western Switzerland.
Salt mining has a special tradition in Bex. Mining the white gold on a large scale already began in 1680 and the former tunnel system now houses a museum which welcomes visitors. The idyllic scenery in the Swiss Alps makes Bex a fascinating holiday destination. Hikes through nature as well as rides around the surrounding mountains are highlights of a relaxing holiday.
The Bex Salt Mines have been closed for some years now and instead are home to a museum. Visitors enter the inside of the mountain with small tunnel carts in order to find out more about the history of mining with an expert guide. The tunnel system is more than 50 kilometres in length and one of the longest in Switzerland. In Bex, the salt also plays a significant role in the daylight. The Sentier du Sel is a hiking and learning path which informs visitors about the close connection between the city of Bex and salt while taking a relaxing hike.
The picturesque city which was populated as early as the 6th century impresses with a number of delightful buildings from past times. For example, the guildhall of Bex which was constructed in 1747. Between Bex and the neighbouring village of St. Maurice, visitors will find the Rhône Bridge which is completely made of stone. Cultural events are also plentiful: Bex et Arts is an exhibition for contemporary sculptures by artists from French-speaking Switzerland. And the Pont de Nant Natural Reserve houses a botanical garden with some very rare plants from the Alps region.
While on your city trip to Bex, a short trip to the Alps is highly recommended. The highest peak in the region is named Les Diablerets. It roughly translates into ‘Devil’s Horns’ and stems from the characteristic form of the mountain range which extends up to 3,200 metres. A trip on the railway line Bex-Villars-Bretaye is a great activity not just for rail fans. This narrow-gauge railway curls up to an altitude of 1,800 metres through the mountainous world of the Alps and offers daring views of gorges and valleys. A rail journey which will turn your city trip to Bex into an adventure.
