Bisse du Tsittoret
A scenic and accessible hike along an ancient irrigation canal, offering breathtaking Alpine views and the beautiful Tièche waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Bisse du Tsittoret
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic and accessible hike along an ancient irrigation canal, offering breathtaking Alpine views and the beautiful Tièche waterfall.
"One of the most beautiful bisses we've ever done, with free parking and stunning views!"
🚗 Parking at Colombire
Ample free parking is available at Hameau de Colombire, a great starting point .
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While parts are stroller-friendly, rocky sections mean good shoes are a must .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bisse Itself
An ancient irrigation canal offering a gentle, scenic walk with panoramic mountain views.
Tièche Waterfall
End of the main trail
A beautiful cascade that marks a key point on the hike, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Gaze upon majestic 4000m peaks, a truly awe-inspiring backdrop to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Bisse du Tsittoret Hike
What to Wear and Bring
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. While some sections are stroller-friendly, a carrier might be better for uneven terrain. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking mountain vistas.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking at Colombire
Ample free parking is available at Hameau de Colombire, a great starting point.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While parts are stroller-friendly, rocky sections mean good shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your walk, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic mountain vistas are breathtaking; don't forget your camera.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking at Colombire
Ample free parking is available at Hameau de Colombire, a great starting point.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While parts are stroller-friendly, rocky sections mean good shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your walk, especially on warmer days.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic mountain vistas are breathtaking; don't forget your camera.
⏱️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the hike and its surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bisse du Tsittoret for its stunning mountain views and accessible, gentle trail, making it a must-do in the Valais region. The historical significance of the bisse and the beauty of the Tièche waterfall are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally easy, some note that sturdy shoes are advisable for certain sections.
"I parked at hameau de colombire, there is a lot of space for the car. Then proceed to take the hike up to "Bisse du Tsittoret". Its 45 min to go up, but not steep than you can stay on the mainroad "cobble" and go around the Valley. If you re hungry, there are two Cafés at the beginning of the Route. Its fantastic and beautiful up there. Give it a try!! If you follow the mainroad and go back its around 2 - 3 h."
Christian A.
"One of the best hikes in the area, beautiful…"
charles pobjoy
"O Bisse mais bonito que já fizemos. Muitos estacionamentos gratuitos disponíveis no local (na foto tem o local mais adequado para deixar o carro) Siga as placas em direção a Tièche. As cascatas são maravilhosas. Pelo caminho passa pela Buvette de la Cave du Sex. Perto dessa buvette tem uma casa-de-banho “portátil”. Depois dessa buvette o percurso sobe um pouco através de umas escadas, mas no geral é de dificuldade baixa para quem está habituado a caminhar. Muitas orquídeas pelo caminho. Reserve uma tarde inteira para esta atividade. Pouco movimentado mesmo aos fins de semana"
Rossana Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended starting point is the Hameau de Colombire, which offers plenty of free parking. From there, follow signs towards the Bisse du Tsittoret. You can also start from Crans to experience the full length of the bisse.
Yes, you can reach Crans-Montana via public transport. From the town center, local buses can take you closer to the starting points like Hameau de Colombire. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors find the Hameau de Colombire to be the most convenient and accessible parking area, offering ample space.
Yes, the bisse is accessible year-round. In winter, it can be enjoyed on foot or with snowshoes, offering a different but equally beautiful experience.
Navigate to Crans-Montana, and then follow signs for Hameau de Colombire. The road to Colombire is well-maintained and leads directly to the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bisse du Tsittoret is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to access and enjoy.
The Bisse du Tsittoret is open 24/7, as it is an outdoor natural attraction. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The Tièche waterfall is a natural feature along the Bisse du Tsittoret trail and does not have an admission fee. Access is free as part of the hike.
While not strictly necessary due to its clear path, guided tours might be available through local tourism offices or private guides, especially for historical context or specific interests like wine tasting.
There are no specific entry restrictions. However, it's important to respect the natural environment and stay on marked trails. Be mindful of the 'Bisse du Ro' mentioned on Reddit, which is a much more vertiginous and dangerous trail, and not part of the Tsittoret hike.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Bisse du Tsittoret is generally considered an easy to moderate hike. It's known for being accessible, with little steepness, making it suitable for families and those new to hiking.
The hike typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views or take photos.
Some sections of the Bisse du Tsittoret are stroller-friendly,
Expect beautiful irrigation canals, lush forests, open mountain pastures, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Key points include the Tièche waterfall offering local food and drinks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are refreshment stands and 'buvettes' along the route, such as the Buvette de la Cave du Sex, offering local specialties. Some cafes are also located near the start of the route.
You can typically find local Valaisan dishes, including raclette, and enjoy local wines.
Absolutely! It's always a good idea to pack your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike further or want to enjoy a picnic with a view.
The Hameau de Colombire itself has accommodations and dining options, and there are cafes at the beginning of the route.
Yes, there are many scenic spots along the bisse that are perfect for a picnic. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers stunning photo opportunities, from the unique irrigation channels and lush greenery to the panoramic views of the Alps
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow.
No, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the beauty of the Bisse du Tsittoret. However, if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can capture even more detail and dynamic range.
Keep an eye out for clearings that offer unobstructed views of the mountain ranges. The area around the Tièche waterfall is also a popular spot for photos.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
though a carrier might be useful for uneven spots. The walk is engaging with the unique irrigation channel and leads to the beautiful Tièche waterfall.There are informative signs along the way that can educate children about the bisse's history. Plus, the presence of 'buvettes'
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
+1Consider starting early to enjoy the tranquility and capture beautiful morning light. The presence of refreshment stops
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The Tièche waterfall provides a dynamic subject, and the changing light throughout the day, especially during golden hour, can create dramatic and beautiful shots.Look for compositions that highlight the contrast between the water, the greenery, and the rugged mountain peaks. The historical aspect of the bisse itself can also be a compelling photographic element. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of Bisses
The Bisse du Tsittoret, in particular, showcases this historical ingenuity. Walking along its path, you're not just enjoying a scenic hike; you're tracing a lifeline that has sustained the region's agriculture for generations. Many bisses, including this one, have been preserved and are now popular hiking trails, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical insight.
These bisses are a testament to the resourcefulness of past communities and their deep connection to the land. Today, they serve a dual purpose: continuing to irrigate fields in some areas and providing accessible, picturesque routes for hikers and nature lovers to explore the stunning Valais landscape.
Hiking the Bisse du Tsittoret: What to Expect
Starting from the Hameau de Colombire, the path winds through a mix of forests and open meadows, offering constantly changing scenery. You'll encounter informative signs along the way that detail the history and function of the bisse.
While many sections are wide and well-maintained, some parts can be a bit rocky, so wearing sturdy footwear is recommended.
The total length of the hike can vary, but a common loop from Colombire to the waterfall and back takes around 2 to 3 hours.Beyond the Bisse: Exploring the Crans-Montana Region
For those seeking more challenging hikes, the surrounding mountains provide numerous trails with greater elevation gains and more rugged terrain. The region is also famous for its ski resorts in winter, offering world-class slopes for all levels. In the summer, it transforms into a paradise for mountain biking, golfing, and paragliding.
Crans-Montana also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with numerous restaurants and 'buvettes' serving delicious local cuisine and wines.
The area is also known for its wellness and spa facilities, offering a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. Whether you're an adventure seeker or looking for a tranquil escape, Crans-Montana has something to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit