Tignousa Planet Park and Planet Path in St-Luc

Heading for the Stars in Val d’Anniviers

In St‑Luc, the Tignousa Planet Park and the Planet Path offer an outing that combines mountains and astronomy. You breathe in the fresh air at over 2,000 meters, walk at your own pace, and discover our solar system in real life, albeit… on a smaller scale. It’s the kind of idea that appeals to both the curious and the little legs that love to move with a purpose.

What Your Children Will Discover

Upon arriving at the funicular station, the Tignousa Planet Park immediately sets the mood: playful installations, clear panels, and models to help navigate the sky. As you embark on the Planet Path, each planet appears to scale and at the correct distances. Children love to "search" for Mars, then Jupiter, compare sizes, read the little facts, and admire the crown of Valais peaks around them.

The activity is primarily an easy walk at altitude, punctuated by stops. You observe, touch, count steps, and marvel at the marmots when they peek out. It’s sensory (wind, sun, scents of herbs), playful (models and challenges like "where's the next one?"), and educational (proportions, time, orientation).

Things to Know Before Choosing This Outing

• Ages: from 4 years old if your child enjoys walking; below that, a baby carrier is more suitable. Teens will also find it enjoyable thanks to the explanations and views.
• Duration: expect 1 to 1.5 hours round trip for a short section from Tignousa (up to Jupiter/Saturn and back). To go further on the trail (towards the Weisshorn Hotel), plan for 2 to 3 hours, or more if you take breaks.
• Atmosphere: a calm and curious activity, with a bit of a sporty side depending on the chosen distance. The elevation gain is gentle at the start, but you are in the mountains.
• Reservation and prices: access to the path is free and open. The St‑Luc–Tignousa funicular is paid; buy your tickets on-site or online depending on the season.
• Strollers and carrying: the trail is alpine (earth, stones, roots); a stroller is not recommended. Opt for a baby carrier or a carrying backpack.
• Public transport: postal bus to St‑Luc, then funicular to Tignousa. By car, parking is available at the funicular departure station (depending on crowding).
• Equipment: closed shoes with a good grip, windbreaker, cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, and enough water. A small snack is great motivation between planets.
• Safety: the path is marked and frequented. However, stay on the trail, keep younger ones close on narrow passages, and monitor the weather in the mountains.
• Seasons: ideal from spring to autumn when the path is clear. In case of persistent snow, access may be limited or reserved for equipped hikers.
• Benefits: sense of orientation, scientific curiosity, understanding of scales and time, self-confidence on real terrain, and great family discussions.

Parents' Tips

• Arrive early to enjoy soft light and quieter paths.
• Set a simple goal (for example, "we're going to Saturn") and adjust according to the day's energy.
• Bring binoculars: between peaks, birds of prey, and chamois, there’s a lot to observe.
• Check the funicular schedule before leaving and allow extra time for the descent.
• In overcast weather, the path remains nice, but the magic of the views is best enjoyed with a clear sky.

Useful Information

• Address: Tignousa (funicular arrival), 3961 St‑Luc, Val d’Anniviers
• Official site: https://www.valdanniviers.ch
• Hours: free access to the path; funicular open according to seasons and conditions. Check the schedules and opening periods before your visit.
• Weather: a clear and stable day is recommended; avoid storms and fog at altitude.
• Access:
  • Car: parking near the funicular station in St‑Luc (limited spaces on nice weekends).
  • Public transport: postal bus to St‑Luc, then funicular to Tignousa.

Why We Recommend It

Because you learn while walking, often without realizing it. The Planet Path transforms an easy hike into a space adventure, with concrete reference points for children and a natural motivation to move forward. The panoramas are stunning, access is simple thanks to the funicular, and everyone can adjust the distance to their level. It’s a beautiful gateway to astronomy and the mountains.

Want to Go?

A clear, playful, and inspiring outing, perfect for introducing your children to walking at altitude and the mysteries of the sky. For more local and clever ideas, create your Kidora account or subscribe to our newsletter.