Educational Trail of the Phare de Griolet

At the summit of the Rothorn of Bella Tola stands a lighthouse. Sheltered beneath it, visitors can enjoy an extraordinary panorama of more than 35 peaks rising over 4,000 meters. Its name comes from Ernest Griolet – the Griolet Lighthouse. He first envisioned it back in 1866, as a beacon to guide hikers making their way up to witness the magnificent sunrise. At the time, he organized a grand celebration to mark the laying of the first stone. But due to poor weather, the event was disrupted, and the 200 invited guests were forced to return to the village of St-Luc.

In 1991, to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the Swiss Confederation, the St-Luc Development Society’s committee decided to bring Ernest Griolet’s bold vision to life.

Now, in 2025, for the Society’s 90th anniversary, the current committee has chosen to share this story with the wider public through educational panels and an interactive game called « Ascension». From Tignousa to the summit of the Rothorn, visitors can follow in Griolet’s footsteps, discover his ambitious project, and gain a deeper understanding of Bella Tola’s role in the development of alpine tourism. More than just a hike, this trail offers a playful and immersive experience – a true celebration of St-Luc’s mountain heritage.

The Trail :

a.      Starting Point : Arrival of the Funicular, direction Cabane Bella Tola

b.      Stop 1 : Once Upon a Time, Ernest Griolet – Picnic area at Par di Modze

c.      Stop 2 : The Mountain Back Then – Cabane Bella-Tola

d.     Stop 3 : The Rise of Tourism in St-Luc – Chenegougas Cave

e.     Stop 4 : Mineralogy and Cartography – Picnic area at the foot of Le Rec

f.      Stop 5 : The Celebrations of 1866 and 1991 – Picnic area at the foot of Le Rec

g.     Stop 6 : Exhibition at the Refuge

h.     Stop 7 : Arrival at the Griolet Lighthouse

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« Ascension » is a puzzle game created by Mathilde Heu Studio for the St-Luc Development Society (SD), with the support of Anniviers Tourism and the Canton of Valais. Installed along a mountain trail, it combines beautiful illustrations, props, and storytelling.