This bisse dates from the fifteenth century. It is steeped in myth, notably surrounding the presence, or not, of the Saracens in the Alps. It is worth reading the excellent book by Joseph Henriet «  Nos ancêtres les Sarrasins des Alpes » which convincingly demystifies a number of these myths and legends.

Total length : Approximately 10 km.

Altitude : Pinsec 1290 m, Bisse takes water 970m, Vercorin 1320m.

Route time : Between 3 and 5 hours depending on ability.

Location :  Between Pinsec and Vercorin, to the left of the Navizence, in the Val d’Anniviers

Difficulty : This is a difficult walk with nearly 600 meters of vertical drop. Not suitable for those suffering from a fear of heights or for young children.

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

Best period : June to October.

Departure

This bisse can also be explored from Vercorin but we advise beginning at Pinsec. From the middle of the village of Pinsec, follow the sign-posts and take a very steep path to where the bisse takes water almost at the same height as the Navizence (350 metres downhill).

Itinerary

From where the bisse takes water, follow the path of the bisse along the hillside. The trail is very varied, with stretches in the forest, others that are uphill, downhill or flat and some which are very steep. You need to be sure-footed and equipped with good walking boots.  Always follow the sign-posts for «Vercorin» and «Bisse des Sarrasins». When you reach the end of the bisse, make your way to Vercorin some 300 metres above you. 

Enlarge and Print Itinerary

Interactive Map

Public Transport Timetable

A shuttle bus runs between Pinsec and Vercorin. Please consult timetable at the local toutrist office.  

At Pinsec, the car park is located as you leave the village heading towards St Jean. 

This bisse has been wonderfully improved but is reserved for experienced walkers .

There is not water in the bisse. The trail partially follows the old path of the bisse and it is fascinating to imagine the courage and willpower necessary in the construction of a bisse in such an challenging environment.