Chemin des Bisses
Overview
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Distance 13 km
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Duration 3 h 15 min
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Ascent 220 m
Intro
Nendaz is a paradise for suone (irrigation channel) hikers, with eight suonen (or bisse) it is the largest network still in use. Enjoyable tour from Planchouet to Veysonnaz, through flowery meadows alongside the open channel of the restored Grand Bisse de Vex.
Detour / Closure
There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/route-58/stage-3
Description
Nendaz is located at an altitude of just over 1,300 metres. It is not only known for its popular ski resort Les 4 Vallées, but also for its large and active network of bisses. There are eight of these in total. These historical artificial water channels have been used for centuries. They carry water from mountain springs to the fields and pastures of the arid Rhone Valley. Due to its scarcity, the use of water was strictly regulated. This was often the cause of conflicts if farmers used too much water to irrigate their fields. It took experience to moisten the pastures with water from the bisses. Just the right amount of water had to be fed into the pasture, and if this was too much, landslides could occur.
The route to Planchouet extends along the Bisse Vieux. It offers fascinating views of the plains of the Rhone Valley as well as the Bernese, Valais and Vaud Alps on its whole length.
From Planchouet, the route runs next to the open watercourse of the Grand Bisse de Vex which, in contrast to the Bisse Vieux, mostly consists of a wooden frame. The Grand Bisse de Vex was built in the 15th century and has been extensively restored. The path to Veysonnaz runs through meadows and idyllic forest sections that invite you to linger. Finally, a breathtaking view of the Plaine Morte opens up. Unlike its name, meaning the dead plain, its landscape is anything but lifeless.
In winter, Veysonnaz is part of the huge 4 Vallées ski area. However, in summer it retains the charm of the past, with its unspoilt village structures and a mountain and alpine economy. In early summer, Hérens cattle, among others, are led to the alpine pastures. There are also enthusiastic celebrations of the cow fights involving this combative Valais Hérens breed.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Nendaz
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|---|---|
| Destination |
Veysonnaz
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| Direction |
One way
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| Altitude (meter above sea level) |
1600 m
|
| Ascent |
220 m
|
| Descent |
300 m
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| Distance |
13 km
|
| Duration |
3 h 15 min
|
| Duration back |
3 h 20 min
|
| Technical requirements |
Easy
|
| Physical requirements |
Medium
|
| Season |
June - October
|
| Theme |
With panoramic view, Along Water
|
| More information | https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r... |
Quick Facts
Route number
