L'Echappée Verte
Introduction
L’Échappée Verte is a social and therapeutic micro-farm located in Granges, in the Valais region.
Through outdoor activities, organic gardening, and personalized support, we provide a space for relaxation, renewal, and social connection for people facing psychological or social challenges.
Our approach
At L’Échappée Verte, we believe that connecting with nature, the changing seasons, and hands-on activities can support mental well-being, boost self-esteem, and foster social connections.
An activity-based and life-centered approach
The program is based on the principles of occupational therapy and horticultural therapy. Participants take part in various activities tailored to their needs and abilities:
- organic vegetable farming
- garden maintenance
- harvesting and processing
- creative and craft activities
- group activities and discussions
The program provides a supportive, non-judgmental environment where everyone can progress at their own pace.
Who is it for?
L’Échappée Verte welcomes people facing various challenging circumstances:
- social isolation
- anxiety
- exhaustion or burnout
- psychosocial difficulties
- adjustment disorders
- complex migration patterns
- transition or re-engagement periods
Participants may be referred by various partners in the social and health care network or may join certain activities on a voluntary basis, depending on the project’s capacity.
Professional support
Support is provided by an experienced team with expertise in social, therapeutic, and environmental issues.
In particular, the project works with an occupational therapist who specializes in psychiatry and is trained in horticultural therapy.
L’Échappée Verte also works with various partners in the social, medical, and community sectors in Valais to provide consistent support tailored to participants’ needs.
Numerous studies show that spending time in nature can have positive effects on stress and anxiety, mood and sleep, a sense of purpose, self-confidence, and the ability to form connections.
At L’Échappée Verte, we see every day how a supportive, vibrant, and community-oriented environment can help people on their journey toward recovery and reintegration.
L’Échappée Verte has helped me regain some stability during a difficult time. Being in touch with nature, the hands-on activities, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere here help me move forward, little by little. Here, I don’t feel judged. I feel welcomed.
At L’Échappée Verte, I’ve found my rhythm again—a place where I feel at ease and people with whom I can be myself. Working in the garden, watching the plants grow, and doing hands-on tasks helps me take my mind off things and regain my confidence. Here, I feel useful.
This place helps me breathe, regain my confidence, and find my place again.
