Discover the historic irrigation channels of Valais on this medium-difficulty hiking tour from Martigny to Veysonnaz. Follow the scenic Bisse de Saxon and Grand Bisse de Vex through forests and flowery meadows with stunning views of the Rhône Valley. Daily stages cover 13-15 km with moderate ascents. Nendaz features the largest active network of eight bisses. Includes luggage transfers, digital navigation app, and SwitzerlandMobility-Plus subscription.
The “Chemin des Bisses”
The Black Death caused a switch to more fruitful livestock farming in Valais. To keep the pastures and meadows watered, the construction of the irrigation channels, known locally as “bisses”, began in the mid-13th century, and these still define the landscape of the Rhone Valley to this day.
The local mountain farmers came up with some ingenious constructions, some of which you’ll see up close on this hike. The water gently ripples in the channels next to you, leading you from one mountain village to the next along little-used mountain trails.
The final stretch of the tour is more demanding in terms of fitness. Although most of the hikes along the “bisses” are flat, there are always ascents and descents to be negotiated. The rock can be slippery in rainy weather. Sure-footedness and, in some places, a head for heights are required.
Category: middle class hotels and mountain inns
