Valais relies on Fairtrail and wants to become number one

Coexistence applies on the single trails in Valais, just like in Graubünden. Now the canton is also promoting Fairtrail on both sides of the Rhone. With the Graubünden logo, but with its own campaign.

"Fairtrail aims to bring hikers, bikers and farmers together," explains Samuel Blanchet, project manager at the Canton of Valais Department of Economy, Tourism and Innovation. They should all show consideration for each other and treat each other with respect so that everyone can enjoy their stay and the farmers can get on with their work.

"Now is the right time to remind everyone of the rules that apply on the trails," explains Blanchet. The reason for this is e-mountain biking, which also brings more traffic and encounters on single trails in Valais.

Blanchet reveals that Valais is aiming to become Switzerland's number one in mountain bike tourism. Given the wealth of trails and offers for mountain bikers, this is an understandable, albeit ambitious, goal. It is also unmistakable that the canton with its many hot spots (Zermatt, Leukerbad, Verbier, Crans Montana, etc.) also welcomes biking on trails that were not originally intended for this purpose.

Hikers, bikers and farmers

Valais is now adopting the Fairtrail idea and logo from Graubünden. "We designed our campaign ourselves, but we have a contract that allows us to use the logo," explains Blanchet. The message: "The mountain world is a pleasure to share." And further: "The aim is to ensure coexistence on trails, alps and paths in order to promote harmonious and respectful coexistence in nature."

2023 is the launch year of the Valais Fairtrail campaign. "We are in the start-up phase and are gradually riding up the activities," explains Samuel Blanchet. As in Graubünden, "Fairdinands" will be out and about reminding trail users of the rules of coexistence. Information material will be adapted to Valais conditions and languages, and trail bells will also be available.

According to Blanchet, Fairtrail will certainly be running in Valais by 2025. In that year, races of the Mountain Bike World Championships will take place at several locations in the canton. Whether the campaign will continue after that is written in the stars. "The Fairtrail rules always apply," Blanchet states.

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