In the Swiss canton of Valais with Rilke

Reiner Maria Rilke travelled the length and breadth of Europe and then chose to spend the final years of his deeply lyrical life in the halls of the Château de Muzot in Veyras, where he would pass away exactly a century ago. This 13th-century residence, surrounded by vineyards and orchards, provided the Prague-born poet with numerous sources of inspiration, as can be seen by visiting the headquarters of the Rainer Maria Rilke Foundation in Sierre, whose library contains over seven thousand volumes relating to this man of letters, who was also enamoured of Italy – and in particular of Trieste and Duino Castle, which can be reached on foot via the Passeggiata Rilke. You can then follow a circular route through the villages of Veyras, Venthône and Miège, admiring the local castles, including Anchettes, whose manor dates back to the late 12th century, whilst on the slopes of the panoramic hill known as the Crête lies an endless green carpet of vineyards. You can stay at the Feuille de Vigne St-Léonard B&B, a traditional house that has been carefully restored, with décor that evokes grapevines and grapes. Perhaps, the following morning, you’ll set off on breathtaking hikes towards the Alpine peaks of Anzère, Crans-Montana, Nax and Vercorin. The view of the family-run vineyard, the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park and the Rhône Valley, which can be enjoyed from the Mathier & Bodenmann bed and breakfast in the heart of the Salgesch vineyards, is also splendid.