Bisse de Clavau - Clear blue sky with distant brown and white shapes.
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Bisse de Clavau

4.6
·491k reviews·, Switzerland

A gentle, scenic walk along ancient irrigation channels, offering stunning vineyard views and unique culinary experiences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming vineyards, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Bisse de Clavau - Clear blue sky with distant brown and white shapes.

Bisse de Clavau

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming vineyards, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A gentle, scenic walk along ancient irrigation channels, offering stunning vineyard views and unique culinary experiences.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Easy walk with amazing vineyard views and a unique gourmet hike option!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk

Mostly flat, accessible path with stunning vineyard views. Great for all fitness levels!

🍷 Gourmet Hike Option

Book a 'gourmand hike' with wine pairings for a unique culinary journey.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vineyard Vistas

Vineyard Vistas

Along the Bisse de Clavau path

Panoramic views of Sion and lush vineyards, a photographer's dream.

Diverse Bisse Construction

Diverse Bisse Construction

Icogne to Sion route

Witness various bisse construction methods: open, covered, galleries, and canals.

Raclette Picnic Spot

Raclette Picnic Spot

Various scenic points along the trail

Enjoy a traditional raclette picnic with portable raclette ovens for a unique culinary experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Easy Access, Stunning Views

The Bisse de Clavau offers a gentle, mostly flat walk with breathtaking views of Sion and its vineyards. It's perfect for a relaxed outing, accessible from Edelweiss Market in Platta. Remember to bring snacks and water for your journey.

Gourmet Hike Experience

Consider the unique 'gourmand hike' offered by Les Celliers de Sion. This experience includes a 5km itinerary with a 3-course meal and wine pairings along the Bisse de Clavau, making for a truly memorable culinary adventure.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming vineyards, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden vineyard colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Une idée de balade facile et panoramique 🌿 Depuis notre magasin Edelweiss Market à Platta, rejoignez en quelques minutes le bisse de Clavau. Une marche accessible, à plat, avec une vue imprenable sur Sion et les vignes alentours! Pensez à faire un arrêt chez nous pour vos snacks et boissons avant de partir 🏃🏻‍♀️ #sionmaville #edelweissmarket #bissedeclavau #valais #valaiswallis #bisse #sioncap...
edelweiss.pam
28 likes • 990 views

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk

Mostly flat, accessible path with stunning vineyard views. Great for all fitness levels! Instagram

🍷 Gourmet Hike Option

Book a 'gourmand hike' with wine pairings for a unique culinary journey. Instagram

Do you agree? 😍 📌 Save this location for your next trip to Valais, Switzerland 🇨🇭 📍 Bisse de Clavau (Sion) 🍇 You can even book your gourmand hike which is 3-course menu, 6 glasses of wine to choose from throughout the entire route and a 5km itinerary @lescelliersdesion #sion #lescelliersdesion #mountains #hiking #switzerland🇨🇭 #myswitzerland #vineyard #swisstrip #winelover #swissalps #vala...
inessamuller.official
490 likes • 18.2K views
🧀 ᖇᗩᑕᒪᗴTTᗴ & ᑕO 🥒🍷 Première sortie de l’année pour notre four à raclette portable. On s’est baladé sur le bisse de Clavau, on a dégainé notre four, une demi-meule, une Dame (de Sion) et un pot de cornichons et … à nous le moment d’exception, tout en gourmandise et en tradition. Et toi, la raclette en balade, tu valides ? 🧀 @mr_raclette 🍷 @lesfilsdecharlesfavre 🥒 @hugoreitzel 📍 Bisse Clavau ...
lesbonsplansdechris
245 likes • 12.4K views

🧀 Raclette Adventure

Bring a portable raclette oven for a traditional picnic experience amidst nature. Instagram

💧 Observe Bisse Engineering

Appreciate the varied construction of the bisses along the Icogne to Sion route. Instagram

⬇️ read the caption ⬇️ 📍  Bisse de Clavau 🇨🇭 📂 HIKE 🎬 In addition to the view of the beautiful vineyards, this hike from Icogne to Sion allows you to experience the different construction methods of a bisse (sometimes open, sometimes covered, sometimes in a gallery or over a canal). ➡️ one way (Icogne - Bisse de Clavau - Sion) 🤩 5/10 ⏱️ ~ 3 h 20 min 📈  76 / 📉 626 / 📏 13.9 km 💪 4/10 ⚠️ Th...
viviandheidi
0 likes • 431 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk

Mostly flat, accessible path with stunning vineyard views. Great for all fitness levels! Instagram

🍷 Gourmet Hike Option

Book a 'gourmand hike' with wine pairings for a unique culinary journey. Instagram

🧀 Raclette Adventure

Bring a portable raclette oven for a traditional picnic experience amidst nature. Instagram

💧 Observe Bisse Engineering

Appreciate the varied construction of the bisses along the Icogne to Sion route. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Bisse de Clavau for its stunning vineyard views and easy, accessible walking path. The unique 'gourmand hike' and the charm of traditional picnics are frequently highlighted as memorable experiences. Some find the full route a bit long, but overall, it's a highly recommended, picturesque outing.

What People Like

Beautiful vineyard scenery
Easy, flat walking path
Unique gourmet hike

What People Dislike

Can be long for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bisse de Clavau is easily accessible from Edelweiss Market in Platta, Sion. It's a short walk from there to the start of the trail. Instagram

While specific parking details can vary, many visitors start from areas like Platta or Icogne, where local parking facilities are usually available. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

Yes, public transport can get you to Sion or Icogne, from where you can access the starting points of the Bisse de Clavau. Check local Swiss public transport schedules for the most convenient routes.

Popular starting points include Platta (near Edelweiss Market) for a more direct access, or Icogne for a longer, more varied route. Instagram+1

The Bisse de Clavau is primarily a walking path and is generally not suitable for cycling due to its narrowness and the terrain in some sections. It's best enjoyed on foot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Bisse de Clavau itself is free. However, any special experiences like the 'gourmand hike' with Les Celliers de Sion will require booking and payment. Instagram

The Bisse de Clavau is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to walk along the Bisse de Clavau. It's a public pathway for everyone to enjoy. Instagram

Yes, it is highly recommended to book the 'gourmand hike' with Les Celliers de Sion in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Instagram

While generally open, it's always wise to check local conditions, especially after severe weather. Respect the natural environment and private property along the route.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Bisse de Clavau is considered an easy to moderate hike. Much of the path is flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most. Instagram+1

The duration varies depending on your starting point and pace. A common route from Icogne to Sion can take around 3 hours and 20 minutes. Instagram

Expect stunning views of Sion, rolling vineyards, and the unique engineering of the bisses themselves, which are ancient irrigation channels. Instagram+1

While the trail itself doesn't have many facilities, you can find options in Sion or Icogne. The 'gourmand hike' offers a curated dining experience along the route. Instagram+1

Yes, the flatter sections are suitable for families. However, always supervise children closely, especially near water channels. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the panoramic views of Sion and the vineyards, the intricate bisse structures, and the charming picnic spots. Golden hour offers particularly beautiful light. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the colors of the landscape. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check and comply with Swiss drone laws and any specific restrictions in the area before flying.

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details in the vineyards. A polarizing filter can enhance the sky and reduce glare. Instagram

Many points along the trail offer excellent vantage points. Keep an eye out for clearings that open up to expansive views of the valley and Sion. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bisse de Clavau is a fantastic option for families looking for an accessible and engaging outdoor activity. The mostly flat terrain makes it manageable for little legs, and the gentle incline means less strain for parents. The visual appeal of the vineyards and the water channels can keep children entertained, sparking their curiosity about nature and engineering. Instagram

Key recommendations for families:
* Pack plenty of snacks and drinks: While there are no facilities directly on the trail, having provisions ensures a comfortable outing. Instagram
* Supervise children closely: Especially near the water channels, ensure they stay on the path and are always within sight. Instagram
* Consider a shorter section: If you have very young children, you might opt for a shorter out-and-back walk rather than the full Icogne to Sion route. Instagram
* Make it an adventure: Encourage kids to spot different types of plants, look for interesting insects, or imagine the bisses as ancient aqueducts. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers Seeking Easy Trails

For those who prefer a relaxed pace and stunning scenery without strenuous climbs, the Bisse de Clavau is an ideal choice. Its predominantly flat path and well-maintained trail make it a comfortable walk, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscape. The gentle gradient ensures you can focus on the panoramic views of Sion and the surrounding vineyards. Instagram

This bisse is particularly appealing because it showcases the historical irrigation system in a beautiful, accessible way. You can observe the different methods used to construct and maintain these channels over centuries, adding an educational layer to your stroll. The route from Icogne to Sion offers a good length for a satisfying day hike, approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, with varied scenery along the way. Instagram

🍽️ Foodies & Wine Enthusiasts

The Bisse de Clavau offers a unique blend of outdoor activity and culinary delight, making it perfect for foodies and wine lovers. The 'gourmand hike' experience is a must-try, featuring a multi-course meal paired with local wines directly along the trail. It's an exceptional way to savor the flavors of Valais while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Instagram

Beyond organized tours, the bisse is a popular spot for traditional picnics. Imagine enjoying a raclette or other local specialties with a view of the vineyards – a truly authentic Swiss experience. Instagram Consider stopping by local markets or shops to gather your provisions before you set off. This allows for a personalized culinary adventure tailored to your tastes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Bisses of Valais

The Bisse de Clavau is part of a unique historical irrigation system found in the Valais region of Switzerland. These bisses are man-made channels, often carved into hillsides or built with stone and wood, designed to transport water from mountain streams down to the arid lower valleys for agriculture, particularly for vineyards. The Bisse de Clavau showcases various construction techniques, from open channels to covered sections and even galleries, reflecting centuries of engineering ingenuity. Instagram

These ancient waterways are not just functional; they have shaped the landscape and culture of Valais. Walking along a bisse offers a glimpse into this heritage, providing a peaceful and scenic route that often follows the contours of the land. The Bisse de Clavau, in particular, is celebrated for its accessibility and the stunning panoramic views it offers over the city of Sion and its surrounding vineyards. Instagram

Many bisses have been preserved and transformed into popular hiking trails, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the region while learning about its agricultural history. The Bisse du Ro in Crans-Montana, for instance, is known for its impressive, though potentially vertigo-inducing, sections, highlighting the diverse nature of these historical canals. Reddit

Culinary Adventures on the Trail

The Bisse de Clavau is more than just a scenic walk; it's an opportunity for unique culinary experiences. One of the most notable is the 'gourmand hike' offered by @lescelliersdesion. This curated experience combines a 5km itinerary with a delightful 3-course meal and a selection of six wines, all enjoyed along the trail. It transforms a simple hike into a gastronomic journey through the Valais. Instagram

Another popular way to enjoy food on the Bisse de Clavau is through creative picnics. Inspired by local traditions, visitors have brought portable raclette ovens to enjoy a warm, cheesy meal amidst the natural beauty. This 'raclette en balade' (raclette on a walk) is a testament to the Swiss love for their culinary heritage and the desire to share it in picturesque settings. Instagram

For those planning a picnic, it's advisable to pack essentials like cheese, bread, cornichons, and any necessary cooking equipment. Local shops, such as Edelweiss Market in Platta, can be great stops for stocking up on snacks and drinks before embarking on your bisse adventure. Instagram

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