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Expert Review of Bex Salt Mine

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Family Review of Bex Salt Mine

Away Travel Expert: Christine Loomis

FamilyExpert Rating Recommended for:
Children aged 3 - 5 , 6 - 12 and 13 - 17

FamilyExpert Tips & Helpful Hints

• This mine in the town of Bex is the only working salt mine open to the public in Switzerland. It's nearly 30 miles in length but only a tiny portion of it is on the public tour. Visitors learn about the history, economic importance, and techniques of salt mining--some techniques dating back to 1684 when the mine was first excavated.
• The tour starts with an audio-visual presentation (English available) set in a reservoir dug in 1826. It covers three centuries of salt mining. There's also a small exhibit. Then a train takes visitors deep into the mine where they embark on a one-hour walking tour. The mine is a constant 62 degrees year-round; warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
• Only cash and only Swiss francs are accepted for tours, though credit cards can be used to purchase snacks at a small stand. Kids under age five are free, ages five to 15 get a discount, and there's family pricing, too.