Sarah, an UIMLA certified Mountain Leader, takes on this day hike around the beautiful Lac de Derborence area. Discover the unique stories and legends of this stunning place in the canton of Valais in Switzerland.
Private
Alps
1 Day
May - Oct
Intermediate
Intermediate
I invite you to join me on a day hike around a magical setting, the Lac de Derborence, one of my favorite places in the region. There are many stories to tell and wonders to discover in this area of pristine beauty!
The Lac de Derborence is a mountain lake in the canton of Valais, located near the Derborence hamlet, formed after two immense landslides at the Diablerets, in 1714 and 1749. Thousands of tons of rocks came crashing down, blocking the course of the Derbonne river, forming a natural barrier which was gradually filled with water, resulting in the creation of the lake.
A beautiful virgin forest with a unique flora grew on the rock debris, due to a particular micro climate. The appearance of a lake altered the natural balance, but created a new enchanting site.
The forest is now a protected area, with pines, spruce, larches, beeches and willows. The valley also boasts an exceptionally rich fauna. It is the natural habitat for chamois, ibex, marmots and hares, and it is also home to several bird species.
The landslide was a source of inspiration for Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz, a Vaudois author who wrote the novel “Derborence”, published in 1934.
If you’d like to discover the magic of Derborence and its unique legends, just send me a request. We will spend a great day hike in this beautiful region in Valais.
You can also take a look at this hiking programs that I lead in Sentier de Chamois or in theMauvoisin Lake.
5.0
(1)
Mountain Leader
Setting off on an adventure on a whim, without a precise plan, walking according to desires and emotions, pushing further to discover what a summit or a ridge reveals. Trained as a business lawyer, then manager of a large sports store, biathlete and trail runner, it was my job as a guide that ultimately allowed me to establish a more structured and secure framework for my wanderings, but without ever losing my wonder and my curiosity. It is with this state of mind that today I like to travel and share the mountains here and elsewhere, preferably roaming, in order to give us time to soak up the landscapes which evolve over time, days and seasons.
I will always be happy to set off on the classic tours, but above all I strive to guide you off the beaten paths.
Languages
French | English
Certificates
UIMLA
Stephen
Frankly, Sarah Kleinknecht is what you dream of having when picking a guide and it is my pleasure to provide a review. My 76 year old mother and I recently went on a 5 day trek through the Alps and it was nothing short of perfect. Sarah is able to perfectly speak 3 different languages however I would argue that her ability to communicate the needs of her clients is her most fluent form of expression. She was easily able to adjust daily excursions depending on weather/ability and planned a life changing adventure. My mother, who as stated is 76, had a perfectly planned course of hikes/trails with challenging yet achievable objectives. Even more so, Sarah is low key a celebrity within the Alps having worked there over 20 years and knew everyone! We were warmly greeted like old friends everywhere we went. She is a positive yet stern guide who keeps safety first yet is always able to provide a laugh. Without a doubt, I would highly recommended Sarah!
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