The Pyramids of Euseigne in the Val d’Hérens

One of the most incredible geological curiosities in the Swiss Alps, the natural pyramids of Euseigne at the entrance to the small Valaisan village of the same name, were listed in the inventory of landscapes, sites and natural monuments of national importance in 1983.

Location: Euseigne is located in the Val d’Hérens, Valais, on the Sion-Evolène highway at the Val des Dix intersection which leads to the Grande Dixence Dam.

The Pyramid Trail: closed until further notice, remain alert for the reopening of this walking tour of approx. 20-25 minutes that enables you to walk alongside the pyramids from all angles.

Although the path is currently closed, you can admire the pyramids of Euseigne from the highway. An access passes beneath the pyramids, through a small tunnel, and car parks are available along the road below the pyramids.

Geological formations

After retreating during the last ice age, approx. 100,000 years ago, the glacier that covered the Val d’Hérens left a compact moraine behind. As a result of erosion, the moraine has been carved out under large boulders which compress and protect it, forming these cones topped with imposing stone caps. The pyramids of Euseigne are therefore moraine masses which were formed at the end of the last ice-age known as the Würm, which occurred between 80,000 and 10,000 years ago.

Protected as natural objects of national importance, these pyramids, also known as the Fairy Chimney or Dressed Ladies, reach a height of 10 to 15 metres and cover an area of 70 hectares

Project for the restoration of the pyramids of Euseigne

In July 2019, the Community of Hérémence, which hosts the Dixence Resort
Project, has lifted the veil on the Project for the restoration of the Pyramids of Euseigne , which aims to transform the area into a natural reserve by highlighting the famous “Dressed Ladies” of Hérémence.

The project will include a new reception structure, including a shop, a terrace bar, an exhibition area, a projection room, a pedestrian square and a car park, and above all, several footpaths across wooden footbridges which will provide visitors with an authentic experience.

This enhancement project is linked to another project which creates a new tunnel around the pyramids to protect the site and improve traffic access. The initial drilling operation for the tunnel is expected in the autumn of 2020 and the estimated duration of the works is three years.

The Pyramids of Euseigne seen from Hérémence

Take a seat on one of the two benches at the exit of the village of Hérémence to admire the magnificent panorama overlooking the valley and the Pyramids of Euseigne seen from above.

Hiking in the surrounding area

Hiking up along the cantonal road to La Luette, you can follow the “Chemin de la Passerelle” which will take you to Ossona, an authentic hamlet in the region.

During the tour, you will be able to enjoy a view of the pyramids, and by venturing a little further, you can descend to the Valley of the Borgne after crossing a small bridge across the Dixence river.

After crossing the 2nd bridge across the Borgne, you can access the Hot Springs of Combioula.

The Gorges de la Borgne are nearby, from where a path links the village of Euseigne – with its church and old wooden chalets – to Bramois in the Rhône valley.