The Bisse de Clavau, built around 1450, overlooks the Rhône valley between Sion and St Léonard. Walking its path one discovers panoramic views of the Alps as well as the famous and spectacular vineyard terraces characteristic of the valaisan winemaking landscape.

Total length : Approximately 8 km.

Altitude : Between 550 and 700 metres.

Route time : 4 hours round-trip.

Location : Molignon, between Sion and St Léonard, to the right of the Rhône.

Difficulty : A magnificent walk at low altitude which can be enjoyed for much of the year. No particular difficulty apart from a badly lit tunnel for about 50 metres. Bring a pocket lamp.

Ordinance Survey map 1 : 50'000  no. 273T Montana.

Best period : April to November.

Departure

Take the road to Champlan from Sion. In the second hairpin bend you will find a car park (often full, especially at the end of the week). If you cannot find a place to park there, there is another parking place a little further up the road to the left. On foot from SIon, follow the "Chemin de Champlan" which starts next to the restaurant of the Valaisanne Brewery.

Itinerary

The bisse starts 20 metres along from the first car park. From the point where water enters the Bisse de Clavau, at the end of the small Beulot valley, you can reach either the Grand Bisse de Lens, or the Bisse de Sillonin. In this case, cross the bridge over the river and make your way along a forest road. The climb is very steep road until you reach the sign-post for «Icogne, Grand Bisse de Lens ou Bisse du Sillonin».

Enlarge and Print Itinerary

Interactive Map

This is a very popular bisse, at least the first section. Further along, in the small Lienne valley, you will find fewer fellow walkers. This bisse passes through the vineyards of Sion, Molignon, St Léonard and Ayent. In autumn it is a veritable feast of colours.