Flore-Alpe botanical garden

Flore-Alpe Botanical Garden is an alpine garden in Champex-Lac, in the municipality of Orsières in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits at around 1,500 metres above Lake Champex and has gathered mountain plants from around the world since 1927.

What is Flore-Alpe?

The garden was founded in 1927 as a collection of alpine plants and is still regarded as one of the richest in the Alps. It is listed as a heritage site of national significance in Switzerland. Its holdings include about 4,000 species: the regional flora, plants of the Alps, of other European ranges and of other continents.

What can you see?

Plants are arranged by habitat, so a walk feels like crossing several mountain worlds. Paths run through rock gardens and past small pools. Distinct environments include:

• scree and rocky debris,
• wetlands,
• peat bogs,
• dry grasslands.

Well-known groups include gentians, primroses, rhododendrons, saxifrages and houseleeks. There are also medicinal plants, showing how mountain herbs were traditionally used.

Why is it admired?

Flore-Alpe combines species conservation, scientific research and public outreach. In 2007 it received the Schulthess Prize for Swiss heritage gardens, and in 2024 the Prix du Patrimoine Naturel from the Etrillard foundation, which praised exactly this mix of conservation, science and education.

When should you visit?

The garden is seasonal and opens in the snow-free months, generally from May to October, during daytime hours. Spring and early summer bring many alpine species into bloom, and summer shows the collection at its fullest. Guided visits are available on request. Check the official website for current opening hours and ticket prices before you travel, as they change from season to season.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Flore-Alpe? In Champex-Lac, beside the lake of the same name, in the municipality of Orsières, canton of Valais, Switzerland.

How many plant species are there? The collection holds about 4,000 species from different parts of the world, grouped by habitat type.

Is it open all year? No. It opens seasonally, roughly May to October, when there is no snow on the mountain.

Can I take a guided tour? Yes, guided tours can be arranged on request.

Who is it for? Botany lovers, nature photographers, families and anyone who wants a quiet walk combined with learning about mountain plants. It pairs easily with a day by Lake Champex, so you can plan both attractions together.