Tête-Noire Gorge

About this place

Shortly after the Valais village of Trient, on the road to Chamonix, a loop trail points the way to the mysterious Tête-Noire Gorge. The path, created in 1884, leads down through the forest on steep stone steps. Walkways and bridges, 120 metres long, take you to the bottom of the gorge. Once there, the first secret of this gorge awaits you: a series of idyllic waterfalls bubbling up on a flat rock ledge. Then, at first sight invisible, more steps lead to the second secret: the Nymphs’ Cave, a true natural cathedral, hidden beneath monstrous boulders leaning against one another. A nature experience of grand and intense beauty. The way back partly follows the former international link route (footpath) between Martigny and Chamonix. A slightly longer route also lets you reach the mysterious gorge from Finhaut. Getting there: from Martigny, take the PostBus towards Châtelard, Frontière to the « Tête-Noire » stop. Be aware that there are only a few connections a day on this route. By car, follow the signs via Trient to the « Tête-Noire » car park. Alternatively, take the Mont-Blanc Express to Finhaut or Châtelard, then hike through the gorge.