This itinerary is for surefooted hikers in good physical condition. The trail is steep right from the get-go and, although the exposed ridge at the top of the route is secured with chains, there are vertiginous passages which may be impossible to traverse if you suffer from vertigo. The views are well worth the effort however - the slender Esserts Ridge and the picturesque cross at the top of the Croix de Culet offer panoramic views over Les Crosets, Champéry, and the Dents du Midi.

The 'short' version of this hike leaves from near the Cantine Sur Coux. Take the little tourist train to the restaurant, then walk 250 metres along the paved road. The trail will be on your right, just past a reservoir on the edge of the forest.

When you arrive at the summit, the Champéry cable car will whisk you back to the village in mere minutes. Otherwise, return to Champéry on the Route de Planachaux or the Cantine Sur Coux via Les Crosets.

Admission fee : Schedule and prices for the cable car at www.pds-ch.ch.

Opening : June to September