Hint

Intro

The Saane is not one of the very large rivers in Switzerland, but it offers a great variety of experiences and adventure potential. The river, here sometimes called “Rösti ditch”, is the dividing line between the German-speaking and French-speaking parts of Switzerland.

Description

In the middle of an alpine meadow fresh water gushes out of the ground. Here, at the Sanetschhorn above Gsteig, on Valaisian soil, the river still bears its French name, Sarine. It subsequently flows past Gstaad, through Pays d'Enhaut and to Freiburg and the Saane River. Later on it once more becomes the Sarine.

Several sections of the Saane are top waters for river rafting and canoeing: over a span of 15 kilometers, at its upper part, between Gstaad and Château-d'Oex (in the Vanel and Gerignoz gorges), the river has rapids, vortexes and roll waves, which give rafters and canoers a sense of exhilaration. The section from Lake Schiffenen to the Saane estuary is quieter.

Veritable jewels of bridge architecture span the Saane at several places: Hidden in a forest between Montbovon and Lessoc you will find a small covered wooden bridge. Visitors can also admire the covered Pont du Châtelet near Gruyères, the old stone bridge of Broc and a pretty wooden bridge, Pont de Berne, located in the Freiburg, which is famous for its medieval ambiance. The elegant railroad bridge of Grandfey is a definite highlight.

Hint

Overview
Saane
Show on map