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Grande Dixence Power Plant
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Industrial site
The Grande Dixence Dam in Canton Valais is the world's highest gravity dam, standing at an impressive height of 285 meters. Constructed between 1950 and 1961 in the Val des Dix, it serves as the centerpiece of a massive hydroelectric complex. The system collects water from over 35 glaciers through a network of tunnels and galleries spanning more than 100 kilometers. This water is directed into several underground power stations where its gravitational energy is converted into electricity, with a total installed capacity exceeding 2,000 megawatts. This facility plays a vital role in the Swiss power grid, particularly in providing peak load electricity. Grande Dixence is not only a 20th-century engineering masterpiece but also a significant economic asset for the region. The resulting reservoir, Lac des Dix, holds up to 400 million cubic meters of water and acts as a giant energy storage unit.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Pavillon d'information Grande Dixence · Pointe de Vouasson · Le Métailler
- Nearby: Mont Fort (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -10 | -10 | -6 | -1 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 6 | 2 | -4 | -9 |
| Rain mm | 63 | 50 | 63 | 70 | 109 | 97 | 96 | 99 | 68 | 72 | 91 | 68 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Grande Dixence Power Plant is a massive hydroelectric facility in the Valais Alps, utilizing meltwater from glaciers. It plays a critical role in Switzerland's renewable energy production and grid stability.
Visiting
The plant itself is not open to the public for safety reasons, but the dam and reservoir are accessible via guided tours. Visitors can view the impressive dam from designated viewing platforms.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is from the dam crest, accessible via a cable car from the valley. Another excellent perspective is from the hiking trails on the surrounding alpine slopes offering panoramic views.
Local products
No consumer products are produced here; however, the Valais region is famous for its cheese, wine, and dried meats. Local farms near the dam sell regional specialties during summer.
Active season
The power plant operates year-round, with peak electricity generation typically in summer when glacier melt is highest. Winter production relies on stored water and is also significant.
Nearby
Combine with a visit to the resort of Zermatt and the Matterhorn, or the nearby Aletsch Glacier. The scenic Lac des Dix reservoir and hiking trails in the Valais Alps are also recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The dam wall has a base width of 200 meters, tapering to 15 meters at the crest.
- Approximately 6 million cubic meters of concrete were used in its construction.
- The total installed capacity of the complex is roughly equivalent to two nuclear power plants.
- Water falls through a vertical drop of up to 1,883 meters on its journey to the turbines.
- The system generates about 2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
- The dam is open to tourists during the summer and features a cable car to reach the top.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Grande Dixence Power Plant (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the dam?
Yes, guided tours inside the dam are offered daily from mid-June to September.
How do you reach the top of the dam?
A cable car leads from the parking lot directly to the crest, or you can hike up in about 45 minutes.
Are there accommodation options?
The Hotel Ritz is located right at the foot of the dam, offering simple accommodation.
How high is Grande Dixence?
At 285 meters, it is the highest gravity dam in the world.
What is the Sentier des Bouquetins?
An educational trail around the reservoir where ibexes can often be spotted.
Grande Dixence Power Plant: where is it located?
Grande Dixence Power Plant is located in Switzerland.
Grande Dixence Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pavillon d'information Grande Dixence, Pointe de Vouasson, Le Métailler.
Grande Dixence Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Grande Dixence Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Grande Dixence Dam in Canton Valais is the world's highest gravity dam, standing at an impressive height of 285 meters.
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