Dents du Midi
The Dents du Midi (French pronunciation: [dɑ̃ dy midi]; French: "teeth of the south") are a three-kilometre-long mountain range in the Chablais Alps in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. Overlooking the Val d'Illiez and the Rhône valley to the south, they face the Lac de Salanfe, an artificial reservoir, and are part of the geological ensemble of the Giffre massif. Their seven peaks are, from north-east to south-west: the Cime de l'Est, the Forteresse, the Cathédrale, the Éperon, the Dent Jaune, the Doigts and the Haute Cime. They are mainly composed of limestone rock, with gritty limestone rock in the upper parts.
| Dents du Midi | |
|---|---|
The Dents du Midi from Aigle in spring. | |
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 3,258 m (10,689 ft) |
| Prominence | 1,796 m (5,892 ft) |
| Parent peak | Mont Blanc |
| Isolation | 19.0 km (11.8 mi) |
| Listing | Ultra, Alpine mountains above 3000 m |
| Coordinates | 46°09′39.6″N 6°55′24.3″E |
| Geography | |
Dents du Midi Location in Switzerland | |
| Location | Valais, Switzerland |
| Parent range | Chablais Alps |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | limestone |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1784 |
The Dents du Midi are accessible from Champéry, les Cerniers, Mex, Salvan and Vérossaz, but they have only been climbed since the end of the 18th century. A footpath around the Dents du Midi has existed since 1975. The mountain range represents a local symbol and is often used to promote the Val d'Illiez and various brands and associations in the region.