Arbaz

Access

The municipality is easily accessible via the Valais road network, connected to the main roads and motorways, with the city of Sion being close by, offering both a railway station and regional airport. The local road network is well managed and allows for easy travel both by car and public transport, making Arbaz a viable destination in all seasons.

Introduction

Arbaz is a commune in the Canton of Valais, in the Sion district, in the heart of French-speaking Switzerland. It covers an area of 19.29 km², in an Alpine setting characterised by altitudes ranging from 1,146 metres in the centre of the village to 2,893 metres, the altitude reached by the summit of Sex Rouge. Arbaz's panoramic location allows a wide view of the Rhone valley and surrounding peaks, making it a starting point for numerous nature and hiking activities.

Description

The municipality, with just over 1,200 inhabitants according to data updated in March 2025, is characterised by a local culture strongly linked to Valaisan traditions and the French language. The name Arbaz probably derives from ancient roots linked to local place names, and the inhabitants are called 'Arbaziens'. The landscape consists of meadows, forests and the typical alpine environment, with a notable presence of traditional irrigation canals that have enabled the agricultural development of the area since the Middle Ages. Near the village there are historical mines, witnesses of a local economy in the past linked to mineral extraction and sheep farming.
As far as the historical aspect is concerned, Arbaz has a history that goes back as far as the Middle Ages; the village preserves typical rural architecture, including ancient rascards-wooden and stone constructions typical of the Upper Valley. The chapel of San Grato, dating back to the 17th century, is one of the community's main spiritual and historical landmarks. Social life is enlivened by traditional events and religious festivities involving the population, according to the calendar linked to local saints.
Nature lovers can explore paths through forests and alongside alpine streams, such as those leading to the Sex Rouge and the surrounding peaks. Attractions include the Arbaz observatory, the Étang Long and the village church, as well as the Museum des Bisses, dedicated to the irrigation canals that are a peculiarity of the region. Arbaz is also steeped in local legends, such as that of the jeteuse de sorts, a female figure feared in popular folklore.

Information

Area: 19.29 km²
Altitude: 1,146m
Maximum elevation: 2,893m - Sex Rouge
Number of inhabitants: 1.219 (March 2025)
 Name in dialect: Arbaziens
 Inhabitant name:
Patron Saint: San Grato
Neighbouring municipalities: Ayent, Grimisuat, Savièse
Internet site: www.arbaz.ch