Canton of Valais, Alpine canton in southwestern Switzerland
Valais is a canton in southwestern Switzerland running along the Rhône Valley between Lake Geneva and the Rhône Glacier, framed by peaks over 4000 meters high. This valley forms a natural corridor between French and German speaking areas with side valleys branching into the surrounding mountain chains.
Roman Vallis Poenina became the French département of Simplon in the early 1800s before joining the Swiss Confederation as a full canton in 1815. This entry ended centuries of shifting rule and established the current structure with two official languages.
This region maintains mountain traditions through products like wines from terraced slopes, dried meat, and spring cow fights between Eringer cattle that bring valley communities together. These customs still shape village life and connect farming with local craft.
Main valleys have regular train links while smaller villages often rely on bus routes or cable cars. Mountain passes can close in winter, so checking road conditions before traveling helps avoid delays.
The valley climate allows fig trees and cacti to grow among glaciers and high peaks. This Mediterranean vegetation appears right next to Alpine pastures and snowfields.
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