Tavolata in Valais: Dining together amongst the vineyards

By Marc Checkley

Valais is Switzerland’s largest wine-growing region. Alongside well-known attractions such as the Matterhorn, the suonen (irrigation channels) and the historic wine-growing villages, viticulture shapes many landscapes along the Rhône. During the Tavolata of Valais wines, these wine-growing landscapes become the setting for communal meals under the open sky.

The term ‘Tavolata’ comes from Italian and refers to a communal meal at a long table. In Valais, the event takes place every year in August. Depending on the vineyard, between 30 and over 100 guests sit together at a single table.

The dishes serve up the very essence of Valais. Wood-fired raclette, slow-cooked meat, fresh trout, polenta, seasonal vegetables and regional produce such as apricots, mountain cheese and dried meat take centre stage. 

The menus vary from one winery to another and often reflect the culinary traditions of the respective locality. The hosts serve their own wines to accompany the meal. Instead of a traditional wine tasting, guests experience how wine becomes part of a shared meal and harmonises perfectly with the regional specialities.

Accounting for around a third of Switzerland’s vineyard area, Valais is one of the country’s most important wine regions. At the same time, the region is renowned for its diversity of grape varieties – from Petite Arvine and Cornalin to Heida.

During the Tavolata, the winegrowers often talk about their work, the distinctive characteristics of their vineyards or the wines being served with the respective menu. This sparks conversations that go beyond a typical restaurant experience.

Whether it’s raclette cooked over a wood fire at the Domaine de Beudon above Fully, an evening of live music at the Domaine La Régalesse in Saillon, or a meal in the heart of the Cave Bridy wine cellar in Savièse – every winery organises its event in its own unique way.

Many guests combine a visit to a Tavolata with other activities in the region. Wine walks, the vineyards of Visperterminen, the castles of Sion or the underground lake at St-Léonard can all be easily combined with a stay here.

It is precisely this combination of wine, landscape and regional culture that makes the Tavolata a prime example of how wine tourism is experienced in Valais.

The Tavolata has grown steadily in recent years. Following 44 events hosted by 29 wineries in 2025, more than 30 wineries will be taking part in 2026. The latest edition begins on 1 August and invites visitors to discover the Valais from a unique perspective.