The road to Lac des Dix in Valais, where the tallest gravity dam in the world stands
Lac des Dix is a high mountain lake at an elevation of 2,141m (7,024ft) above sea level, located in the canton of Valais, Switzerland.
Where is Lac des Dix?
The lake is situated at the head of Val d'Hérens, in the southern part of the country.
Why is Lac des Dix famous?
The lake is renowned for its concrete gravity dam, known as the Grande Dixence Dam, which is said to be the tallest gravity dam in the world. A true masterpiece of civil engineering, the dam was constructed between 1951 and 1965 and stands 285m (935ft) high. It collects meltwater from 35 Valaisian glaciers in the region surrounding Zermatt and extending into Val d’Hérens. The dam serves as the starting point for several hiking tours and is open to the public from June 15 through September 30.
How long is the road to Lac des Dix?
The curvy access road to the lake is fully paved and stretches 17.4 km (10.81 miles), starting from Hérémence. A parking lot is available at the end of the road. The final 5 kilometers feature a series of steep and superb hairpin turns, leading to the base of the massive dam wall.
Is the road to Lac des Dix open in winter?
The road is closed during winter, from October to mid-June, due to harsh weather conditions.