A quick note about an interesting option if you’re at the Vinea Wine Fair this weekend: a guided visit to the current exhibit is on offer at the Valais Wine Museum, next to the Chateau de Villa (whose excellent wine bar and raclette meals are always worth a visit).

“Le vin au goût du jour” is a thought-provoking display about our sense of taste and wine, a useful break during a day of wine-tasting.

Next weekend, Saturday 10 September, is the annual Marché des Cepages, or grape varieties walk, a hike that attracts 5,000 visitors and one of my favourite outings in Valais. The weather seems to be perfect every year and the 6 hour walk between Sierre and Salgesch, with explanations (French and German, some unofficial English) about wildlife, insects, plants, etc. takes you through magnificent vineyards. There are stops on the way to sample local foods and wines.