Discovering the wealth of our heritage and the work of our ancestors
From the imposing Tseuzier dam at an altitude of 1777m to the Mayens d'Arbaz, go on a spectacular hike and discover the restored remains along the rock face near Torrent-Croix.
The Grand Bisse of Ayent, built in 1442, draws its water near the Tseuzier dam. Although the upper part of the Bisse has dried up since the dam was completed in the mid-1950s, you can still discover traces of it along the way. The passage from Les Follés is only suitable for those who are free from vertigo, as the bisse runs along a rocky ridge. This section of the route is equipped with a handrail, but the path runs along the rock face and may cause a sensation of vertigo for those who are prone to it (people who suffer from vertigo can use this route by taking the bus and starting the Grand Bisse d'Ayent route from the "Samarin" bus stop, thus avoiding the passage along the cliff).
When you arrive at the place known as Torrent-Croix, discover the incredible work carried out by our ancestors: the bisse was built into the rock with their bare hands and used gutters attached to the cliff. These are now immortalised on the back of the CHF 100 note, since 2019.
This part of the bisse with the gutters has not been in use for some years and the bisse now runs through a 95-metre long, illuminated tunnel. It is through this tunnel that you will continue your journey. Be careful, you must remember to keep your head down as you make your way through it. In the middle of the tunnel, you will find a platform that offers a magnificent view of the entire restored installation.
During your hike, you will have the possibility to finish in Anzère. It is also possible to continue the route to the Mayens d'Arbaz, where the finish is near the Étang Long, which is popular for fishermen and has picnic areas with space for barbecues. During the summer months, you can also enjoy a meal on the terrace of the Restaurant du Lac Pascali's.
At the beginning of this hike, it is possible to combine it with the "Tour du lac de Tzeusier" on the left bank of the lake, starting by crossing the dam wall.
Access to the site:
Reach the Tseuzier Dam by private vehicle or take advantage of the shuttle bus available between July and October, on Wednesdays, Fridays and weekends. Information and timetable available here. For holder of the Pass Anzère Liberté, the bus ride is free!
A pedestrian alternative is available by taking the path from the Mayens d'Arbaz or Anzère to the Tseuzier Dam and making a loop by returning via the Bisse of Sion to the starting point (+/- 6h15 loop from the Mayens d'Arbaz). Or by taking the shuttle bus from the Tseuzier dam.
Characteristics
Length: 11.4 km
Duration: 3h00
Ascent and descent: +74 m / - 532 m
Difficulty: Middle
Water launch: from June to September
At the end of your hike, go to Botyre to discover the history of the bisses at the Musée Valaisan des Bisses. This is located inside the painted house, a historic building dating from the 17th century, where you will find 270m2 of exhibition space that will help you appreciate the decisive role of the Bisses in the development of the Valais region.