- Route: 36 Chemin du Vignoble Etappe 4 Venthône – Leux
- Region: Tourbillon (Canton Wallis)
- Theme: Castle Hikes
- Distance: 13 km
- Duration: 3.8 h
- Ascent: 400 m
- Difficulty (SAC scale): T1
- Terrain: Wanderland-Route 36 · regionales Netz · SAC T1
- Attractions along the route: Schloss Leuk, Beinhaus
- Legend: The Grain Sack
Discover an enchanting cultural hike on the 13 km route of 36 Chemin du Vignoble Etappe 4 Venthône – Leux, featuring breathtaking views, historical landmarks, the legend of The Grain Sack, and an easy SAC T1 terrain rating completed in 3.8 hours within the Canton of Valais.
A Journey Through History and Valais Vineyards
Your journey begins in the charming village of Venthône, easily accessible by regional public transport connections or by car via the main regional roads leading into the heart of the Valais valley. From the start, you are greeted by stunning panoramas of terraced vineyards and rugged mountain backdrops. The path guides you steadily along well-maintained regional walking networks, offering a comfortable and safe walking experience that is officially rated as SAC T1. This makes the trail wonderfully straightforward for hikers of varying experience levels.
As you progress along the 13-kilometer stretch toward your destination near Tourbillon, the landscape continuously unfolds new visual delights. Walking with children is entirely feasible and rewarding on this section, as the gentle gradients and absence of technical hazards ensure a relaxed family outing where little legs won’t become overly exhausted. Along the way, you will encounter remarkable historical highlights. A major touristenattraktion on your path is the magnificent Schloss Leuk, an imposing castle that dominates the landscape and whispers tales of bygone nobility. Continuing further, another fascinating sehenswürdigkeit awaits you in the form of the historic charnel house, or Beinhaus, which adds a layer of deep historical reflection to your outdoor adventure.
The Legend of The Grain Sack
As you near the vicinity of Tourbillon, the atmosphere shifts, inviting thoughts of ancient folklore and local mythologies. Here, the haunting tale of The Grain Sack comes to life, echoing through the rocky outcrops and castle ruins. According to local lore, the legend speaks of a miserly farmer who during a time of terrible famine hoarded immense stores of grain while his neighbors starved. One stormy night, as he arrogantly boasted that his wealth would outlast any drought, a sudden supernatural fury struck the hillside of Tourbillon. A blinding flash of lightning and a torrential downpour swallowed the man and his precious grain sacks, turning them instantly into cold stone. Even today, weary travelers passing through the area whisper that on quiet nights, the faint sound of rattling grain can still be heard murmuring beneath the earth, serving as an eternal warning against greed and the harsh justice of the Valais mountains.
Find all the details on this route, including the map, on the route page for 36 Chemin du Vignoble Etappe 4 Venthône – Leux.
You can read the full legend “The Grain Sack” here: The Grain Sack.
Experience this hike with a GPS audio guide and the matching legend right in the app: Legends & Stories, Navigation & Offline Maps.
Photo: Scott Barber / Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour takes approximately 3.8 hours over a distance of 13 km on an easy SAC T1 terrain.
Is the tour suitable for children?
YES – The gentle gradients and well-maintained paths make this cultural hike a great and manageable experience for families with children.
How do I get to the starting point?
You can reach the starting point in Venthône easily by car via the regional valley roads or by using regional public transport connecting to local bus and train stations.
Which legend is associated with the route?
Along the route near Tourbillon, you can hear the fascinating local legend of The Grain Sack.
