This bisse irrigates a particularly aride area that has suffered major prehistoric geological disturbances in the form of land and rock-slides, proof of which is offered by the hills of Finges and Sierre. 

Total length : Approximately 5 km without the return trip.

Altitude : Between 1000 and 1150 metres.

Route time : Approximately 3 hours, 4 hours with the Bisse Neuf and 6 hours with the Bisse de Mengis.

Location :  The region of Planige above Miège, to the right of the Rhône.

Difficulty : There are no particular difficulties. 

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

Best period : May to November.

This bisse contains water from early May to the end of October.

Departure & Itinerary

From the picnic place in Planige, follow the marked path in the direction of Propija. You can also reach the Raspille bridge from the end of the Bisse Neuf. Having crossed the bridge, walk about 100 metres until you reach a  fork in the road with sign-posts indicating the trail (GPS 46°19’29’’ N 7°33’3’’E). Follow the sign-posts uphill for about 100 metres until you  reach the Bisse de Varen (or Varone). To continue to the Bisse de Mengis, when you arrive at the Brand Waterfall, follow the path downhill in the direction of Varen and then Salquenen (Salgesh). This joins a tarmac road which you descend until you reach the Bisse de Mengis. Careful: the beginning of the Bisse de Mengis isn’t sign-posted. You will find it on the right of the road after about 1 km. Follow it uphill until you reach the point where it takes water. From here, follow an agricultural road as it slightly descends and when you reach the sign-posts for Salgesh, Bisse de Varen, etc., climb back up towards the Bisse de Varen, the Bisse Neuf and Planige. It’s a steep climb (30 degrees) of between 30 and 50 minutes depending on your ability.

Enlarge and Print Itinerary

Interactive Map

Interactive Map, Loop with Neuf - Varen - Mengis

Public Transport Timetable

The Bisse de Varen is unfrequented. It crosses a very dry region with many alpine pines reminiscent of the vegetation of the South. You must take great care following the path so that you find the beginning of the Bisse from Propija.

If you use public transport, we advise you to start the trek with the Bisse Neuf.