Touring Sion in Valais
Part of Switzerland since the fifteenth century, the Valais was long divided in the 16th century between the Francophile party of Georg Supersaxo and the supporters of Milan, Since the 1550s, the Valais’ bishopric and central town has been Sion (or Sitten). Historically, Sion was relatively hospitable to Protestantism.
These days Sion, the capital of the Valais, is moving upmarket, and starting to sprout lots of trendy spots. Stuck in the middle of the Swiss heartland, the canton of Valais —home of ski resorts Verbier and Zermatt—saw most of its working inhabitants seek jobs in Lausanne, Geneva, or Berne.
Sion, which has a few large corporate inhabitants such as Unicible – IBM, is becoming more affluent and spawning a wave of chic restaurants, boutiques, and pedestrian walkways.
The new Ramparts space, with its glass garden, white armchairs and fountain, is a new example of recent urban additions.
Among the recent new trendy places to open are Keramika – a boutique with artisan creations like pillows, tables, and an assortment of teas and chocolates. (It’s at rue Super Saxo 4; Tel: 027 322 3440).
For new trends in clothing and accessories, there’s Mac & Lo, which sells brands like Ed Hardy, Denny Rose, Jeans Gang and Embargo, as well as the now well-known Heidi. (Mac & Lo, rue du Rhone, Tel: 027 322 1230).
La Rose des Vents (rue des Remparts, Tel: 027 323 8082) is another fashionable restaurant/creperie with big white umbrellas over rattan chairs and tables.
Atmosphere is a new design boutique at 20 Grand-Pont.
Sion is best known for its castles, Valére and Tourbillon, whose silhouettes tower over town. The Tourbillon castle is on the north side of the town and was built in 
the 13th century but later largely destroyed by fire in 1788. It’s open from March to November (027-606-4670). There is also the Sorcerers Tower (Tour des Sorciers) at Rue de la Tour, which is the last vestige of the fortress walls that surrounded the town.
Sion is also the home of many vineyards and wine-producers. There are approximately 30,000 french speaking residents. Sion is also particularly well known for its scenic walks.
The tourist office is at the Place de la Planta (027 327 7727).
One can play 18 holes of golf at the the Golf-Club de Sion year round for CHF 100; it’s accessed from Route de Vissigen 150. It’s also possible to go horseback riding in Sion or take a group lesson at the Manege de Tourbillon at Rue du Stade 52. It costs about CHF 30 for an hour ride. The Ranch des Maragnènes has one-hour rides through the countryside at about CHF 25/hour and also offers weekend excursions (Tel: 027 203 1313).
