Sentier des Mines

The emblem of the "sentier des mines" is a gnome like figure, protector of the earth's precious metals. Highlighted on trees and stones, he helps to guide the visitors around the forests.

The Mont-Chemin overlooks Martigny but with the discretion appropriate for a mountain peak which does not appear on any topographic map. Its position lying east-west, parallel to the Rhône Valley, highlights its exceptional character which is unlike the rest of the Valais with its southern flank and a continental one on its north side, the Mont-Chemin has a rich and fascinating diversity of vegetation and flora.

Located at the northern extremity of the Mont-Blanc range, Mont-Chemin is made up of cristalline rocks and marine sediment. Beneath its surface can be found some 150 minerals, a truly remarkable geological richness.

The extraction of iron, lead and silver from the beginning of the Middle-Ages and of fluorine in the 20th century, was carried out extensively. Traces of this important historical activity can be seen by following the "sentier des mines" throughout this beautiful, natural environment of mid-level alpine meadows and forested pastureland.

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