Famed for its salt mine, Bex is a small town on the banks of the Rhône River in Switzerland’s south-west. Originally known as Baccis, it has been inhabited since at least the 6th century. Bex is framed by snow-capped mountains that include the Pays d’en Haut and the Bernese Alps.
Things to do in Bex
If you’re interested in the industrial heritage of the region, head to the Mines de Sel de Bex, where you can embark on a wagon train ride through a network of salt-mining caverns. Originally discovered in the 15th century, Bex’s salt deposits are still mined to this day. Explore the galleries that have been dug by hand, with many now exhibiting antique mining equipment.
Bex makes an ideal base for exploring the Pyramides de Gypse, a series of gypsum “pyramids” that have been eroded over centuries by water and wind. Follow one of the short walking trails that lead to these geological curiosities, with one leading past the sparkling waters of Lake Les Chavonnes and another through the alpine meadows of Ensex.
If you’re visiting in the winter months, hit the slopes of Glacier 3000, which offers magnificent views across the Swiss Alps. At the top of the ski resort is a summit station designed by Mario Botta from where you can see the 4,000+-metre peaks of Jungfrau, the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Brave the thrilling suspension bridge known as the Peak Walk or glide down the mountain on the Alpine Coaster.
Getting around Bex
Bex is around 45 minutes’ drive from Lausanne and just over an hour from Geneva International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect from Lausanne to the Bex railway station and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot.