Sierre-Zinal: the route
Every August, Sierre-Zinal climbs out of the Rhône valley and runs to the head of the Val d'Anniviers. Its 31 km and roughly 2,200 m of ascent start with the long haul from Sierre up to Chandolin; from there the route turns into a high traverse past Tignousa, the Hôtel Weisshorn and Nava before dropping into Zinal. Along the way the five four-thousanders come into view: Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, Ober Gabelhorn, Matterhorn and Dent Blanche. On the relief you can read the whole day at a glance: the brutal opening climb, the almost level balcony, the final descent. The same valley hosts the Trails du Besso from Zinal in early September, with the Tour du Roc (26 km, via the Tracuit hut) and the Trail du Besso (59 km); both loops have their own page. It makes a finisher keepsake for your own shelf or a gift for trail runners who crossed the line in Zinal. On the base we engrave the runner's name, finishing time and race date.
The relief comes from swisstopo elevation data, accurate to the metre; the race line is drawn on top. 12 × 12 or 18 × 18 cm, made to order in 7 working days, free delivery in Switzerland.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the route the one from my year?
- We use the route published by the organisers for the edition shown on each distance's page. The Sierre-Zinal course barely changes; if your year used a variant, get in touch before ordering.
- Are the Tour du Roc and Trail du Besso part of Sierre-Zinal?
- No. They are separate races, held in early September from Zinal as the Trails du Besso. They run through the same Val d'Anniviers and have their own page, Trails du Besso. Each has its own piece.
- Can I give it to a finisher?
- Yes. Tell us the name, time and date to engrave. Each piece is made in 7 working days and shipped free within Switzerland: CHF 49 for 12 × 12 cm, CHF 69 for 18 × 18 cm.