The Combioula Hot Springs

Warning! Danger of flooding at all times!

Hydroelectric plant operators remind visitors that parking in waterways must be avoided at all costs.
Access to caves is prohibited by order of the authorities.

The springs of Combioula

The Val d'Hérens is often referred to as the Devil's Valley. Our ancestors may have believed this to be true when they noticed the hot springs at Combioula. Numerous thermal mineral springs emerge along the banks of the Borgne river. Located at the bottom of the valley, these springs have been known since the 15th century.

At their source, they have a temperature of 26°C. In the 19th century, Isaac de Rivaz attempted to exploit these waters by extracting the numerous salts they contain. Due to a lack of financial resources, his research had to be interrupted.

This is a sensitive natural site that deserves special attention and respect from visitors. We ask everyone to do what is necessary to take care of it!

Your presence has an impact on nature

This is a sensitive natural site that deserves special attention and respect from visitors. We ask everyone to do what is necessary to take care of it, preserve its charm, and protect its biodiversity. Thank you for following our advice on “Sustainable and eco-responsible hiking.”

Please note that riverbeds and banks may be flooded several times a day due to dam or water intake operations. Specific signs indicate a permanent hazard.
The natural sites you will be visiting are not equipped with trash cans or toilets. Don't forget to bring something to carry your trash with you!

Keep an eye on your pets and be sure to pick up all their waste, even in the middle of nature. Many diseases can be transmitted to wildlife or farm animals in this way.

In order not to disturb the local flora and fauna, please stay on the paths (one behind the other so as not to widen the passages), respect the peace and quiet of the area, and keep your distance from wild animals.

To respect the work of local farmers, please do not walk in tall grass. To avoid disturbing livestock, do not feed the animals and be sure to close the gates of any enclosures you pass through.

Please respect the signs and regulations in force, in particular the ban on access to mountain huts and pastures in vehicles without special authorization (access authorized for local residents), the ban on camping outside designated areas, respect for protected flora, and respect for areas where parking is authorized.

Map of the site