Why a Chalet in Valais is Perfect for Food Lovers

Why a Chalet in Valais is Perfect for Food Lovers

Nestled among the picturesque Swiss Alps, you’ll find Valais - a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, 2,000km of ski slopes and the unmissable resorts of Zermatt, Verbier and Crans-Montana. But there’s even more to Valais than its stunning sights - it’s also home to a vibrant culinary scene.

From its world-famous cheeses and exquisite wines, to traditional dishes that are sure to satisfy after a long day of skiing, the region offers unparalleled culinary delights. If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and delicacies of this Swiss paradise, why not consider a luxury chalet in Valais? You can enjoy a delectable meal nearby before returning to the comfort and relaxation of your luxury chalet.

Read on to learn about some of Valais’ most loved restaurants and why it’s the ultimate destination for foodies.

What is Valais cuisine?

Cheese has been made in Valais for as long as people have lived there, and even today, Raclette du Valais is considered a local delicacy. But there’s more to Valais cuisine than cheese alone.

Here are some of the key foods and dishes that Valais is known for:

  • Cheese: As mentioned, Valais is known for its cheese production. In fact, cheese in Valais dates back as far as the 4th Century BC and is often served as raclette - a beloved Swiss dish. The name ‘raclette’ derives from the French word ‘racler’ which translates to ‘to scrape’. This refers to the practice of melting cheese near an open fire and scraping it onto plates or accompaniments like potatoes, pearl onions and gherkins.
  • Cured meats: You’ll find high-quality cured meats in Valais, such as dried beef which is often thinly sliced and served as part of a charcuterie (‘cold cuts’) platter.
  • Rösti: Another popular dish in Valais is rösti, which mainly consists of potatoes that are fried in either oil or butter. It’s often served to accompany other dishes in restaurants, but is also a popular main dish, particularly for vegetarians.
  • Wine: Valais is a wine lover’s dream. The largest wine region in Switzerland, Valais produces around one-third of the country’s wine. Its impressive vineyards cover over 100km along the Rhône! Why not book a tasting experience and sample the delicacies of the region?
  • Cholera: Originating from Valais, cholera is a popular pastry filled with potatoes, vegetables, fruits and cheese - sure to satisfy after a morning ski. Rumour has it the dish is named after the disease, after an outbreak in the 1830s!
  • Fondue: While cheese fondue is found throughout all of Switzerland, Valais offers a unique fondue experience, combining cheese with other local ingredients including tomatoes and herbs to enhance the flavour even further.
  • Rye bread: Rye is the only grain that can withstand extreme weather conditions (going from cold winters to extreme summer heat), so its popularity in Valais makes sense. Valais’ rye bread is dense and moreish and is known for its high fibre content. It’s even been awarded AOP (Appellation d'Origine Protégée) status. This recognition ensures rye will continue to grow in Valais for years to come, to conserve the beautiful landscape.

The best restaurants in Valais

Want to experience the best cuisine that Valais has to offer? Here are some of our favourite restaurants in the area that are sure to deliver unique and unforgettable dining experiences.

1. L’Epicure

L’Epicure is part of the Le Mirabeau hotel, but you don’t have to stay there to experience its culinary delights. Only open in the evenings, this elegant restaurant in Zermatt serves French cuisine with what they describe as an ‘alpine touch’. The restaurant’s chef, Géraldine Géroué, serves up an array of hearty dishes, from steak for two to lobster linguine. While the restaurant specialises in seafood dishes, they’ll cater to dietary requirements so vegetarians and vegans won’t be left hungry. You’ll experience the ambiance of Parisian sophistication accompanied by breathtaking Matterhorn views.

2. Soulfood by Alain

Soulfood is ranked no.1 on Tripadvisor’s list of restaurants in Zermatt, and it’s easy to see why. Beautifully presented, Soulfood uses local produce to keep their food as sustainable as possible. If you’re looking for fine dining with a cosy atmosphere, look no further than Soulfood. The chef, Alain, is sure to provide you with a unique experience that will satisfy your stomach and your soul.

3. Fer à Cheval

With its unmissable apres-ski atmosphere, this Verbier hotspot is the perfect location for post-ski drinks and a relaxed evening meal. They have an extensive pizza menu, with a range of vegetarian options, as well as burgers, salads and delightful pasta dishes. After a busy day of hitting the slopes, Fer à Cheval is sure to cure your hunger and relax your mind.

4. Madre Nostra by CERVO

While we’d never pass up cheese fondue and cured meats, if you’re looking for a change of cuisine, Madre Nostra is well worth the visit. CERVO Mountain Resort’s restaurant, Madre Nostra celebrates Italian tradition in a Swiss setting, with the freshest produce possible paying tribute to local agriculture. You’ll find a variety of delicacies, from homemade pasta to grilled meat and fish. With stunning mountain views and the perfect balance of elegance and cosiness, Madre Nostra is an unmissable dining experience, worthy of its Michelin Star status.

5. Restaurant CaSy

With more than 20 years of hotel and restaurant business to their names, husband and wife Caroline and Sylvain are proud owners of CaSy in Crans Montana. According to their website, they live by the phrase ‘Together is a wonderful place to be’, and what could be more true? Dine with those who mean the most to you in this unmissable restaurant. You’ll find a range of dishes to suit everyone, as well as an unmissable cocktail menu and wine list.

Benefits of a chalet in Valais as a foodie

A chalet in Valais offers unbeatable comfort and tranquillity, with picturesque scenery and easy access to several ski hotspots including Zermatt, and Verbier. Its culinary experiences and local cuisine make it a prized destination for foodies. Here are some of the key benefits of purchasing a chalet in Valais as a food lover:

  • Local ingredients: Your chalet in Valais is likely to be in close proximity to local markets and farms, allowing you to source quality ingredients and support local agriculture.
  • Private chefs: Why not make the most of your chalet by staying in? Book a private chef or cooking class to come to your chalet, for you to learn about traditional Valais cooking in the comfort of your new home.
  • Comfortable environment: Staying in a chalet in Valais offers a private and intimate environment for you to enjoy meals at your own pace. You could dine indoors by the fire, or sit on the terrace to take in the breathtaking views with a glass of wine.
  • Cultural immersion: You’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Swiss culture and local traditions. You can ask locals to recommend their favourite dining spots and where to source the best produce.
  • Gourmet kitchens: Your chalet is likely to be equipped with a top-of-the-range kitchen for you to experiment with cooking at your leisure.

Find out more about chalets in Valais with Steiger&Cie Sotheby’s International Realty

If you’ve been on holiday in Valais, you’ll know that saddening feeling of needing to say goodbye. Well, the good news is you can always come back - for good. Why not make the move with a chalet in Valais, and embrace the culinary delights of this breathtaking location? Reach out to the experts at Steiger&Cie Sotheby’s International Realty to find your dream luxury chalet in Valais.