Plans-Mayens - Wide view image of blank black spiral note pad and white marker with calligraphic inscription plan on yellow background
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Plans-Mayens

4.6
·491k reviews·Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Explore the historic 'bisses' of Plans-Mayens, ancient irrigation channels offering serene walks through breathtaking Swiss alpine landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, Spring/Fall

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Plans-Mayens - Wide view image of blank black spiral note pad and white marker with calligraphic inscription plan on yellow background

Plans-Mayens

Best Time

Weekdays, Spring/Fall

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic 'bisses' of Plans-Mayens, ancient irrigation channels offering serene walks through breathtaking Swiss alpine landscapes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly unique and peaceful walk alongside history, with stunning mountain views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be uneven; comfortable hiking shoes are essential for enjoying the bisses.

💧 Carry Water & Snacks

While beautiful, amenities are sparse. Pack essentials for your hike.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bisse du Ro

Bisse du Ro

Val d'Anniviers

Walk alongside ancient irrigation channels, offering unique perspectives and serene natural beauty. A must-do for hikers.

Instagram
Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Various points along the trails

Experience breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Swiss Alps. Perfect for photography and soaking in the alpine atmosphere.

Local Flora and Fauna

Local Flora and Fauna

Along the bisses

Discover the diverse plant life and potential wildlife encounters unique to the alpine environment. A peaceful nature walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Trails

Plans-Mayens is renowned for its beautiful hiking trails, often referred to as 'bisses'. These ancient irrigation channels offer unique walking paths with stunning views. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for varying terrain. Instagram

Best Time for Peaceful Exploration

To avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Plans-Mayens, aim for weekdays, especially during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. Summer can be busier with local families enjoying the outdoors. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays, Spring/Fall
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Curaçao Itinerary 🇨🇼 Full itinerary at the end! 🚘 Transportation Tip: If you’re not renting a car, there’s an app for cabs, but hiring a driver for your entire trip can actually be cheaper and more convenient. Highly recommend exploring that option! 🛥️ Excursions: We booked our tours online via @curacaoactivities, which features a variety of tour companies. A heads-up: we weren’t thrilled with the...
@catwhereyouatt
30.5K likes • 458.2K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be uneven; comfortable hiking shoes are essential for enjoying the bisses. Instagram

💧 Carry Water & Snacks

While beautiful, amenities are sparse. Pack essentials for your hike. Reddit

Right along Old Bayshore Highway, this is the perfect spot to chill, watch flights taking off & landing, and get those runway views. 📍 Bayfront Park, Burlingame 🚗 Parking Tips There’s limited free parking in the park itself — sometimes spots are hard to find, esp. on busy weekend afternoons. If the park lot is full, Marriott Waterfront (at 1800 Old Bayshore Highway) has a parking lot with ~15 minu...
@vinayak_arannil
5.4K likes • 65.3K views
Une belle journée avec mon p’tit gars au bisse du ro ⛰☀️
ricowisler
75 likes • 0 views

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. Reddit

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Alpine weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures. Instagram

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be uneven; comfortable hiking shoes are essential for enjoying the bisses. Instagram

💧 Carry Water & Snacks

While beautiful, amenities are sparse. Pack essentials for your hike. Reddit

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. Reddit

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Alpine weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique and serene experience of walking along the ancient bisses in Plans-Mayens, appreciating the historical significance and stunning alpine scenery. While the natural beauty is a major draw, some find the lack of facilities and occasional trail maintenance issues a minor drawback.

What People Like

Unique bisse trails
Beautiful alpine scenery
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Trail maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plans-Mayens is typically accessed via the Val d'Anniviers region in Switzerland. Driving is common, with parking available near trailheads. Public transport options might involve buses to nearby villages, followed by a hike. Reddit

While direct public transport to every bisse point might be limited, buses serve the Val d'Anniviers. You may need to combine bus travel with walking or a short taxi ride. Reddit

The primary way to explore Plans-Mayens is by hiking the bisses. For longer distances between trailheads, a car or local bus services are options. Reddit

Car rentals are generally available in larger towns or cities in the Valais canton, such as Sion. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for reaching different bisse starting points. Reddit

Roads leading to the Val d'Anniviers are generally well-maintained, but can be winding. During winter, check for snow conditions and potential closures. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the bisses and hiking trails in Plans-Mayens is generally free. It's a natural attraction open to the public. Instagram

There are no specific entrance fees for Plans-Mayens itself. Enjoying the natural beauty and hiking trails is free of charge. Instagram

The bisses are natural irrigation channels and are accessible at all times. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are often available, especially during peak season, offering insights into the history and ecology of the bisses. Check with local tourist information offices. Reddit

While there might not be a dedicated visitor center directly at every bisse, tourist information offices in nearby villages like Grimentz or Zinal can provide maps and advice. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Plans-Mayens features a network of 'bisses' or ancient irrigation channels, which form unique, often flat or gently sloping walking paths. Some connect to more challenging mountain trails. Instagram

Many bisses are relatively flat and safe, making them suitable for families. However, always supervise children closely, as some sections might be narrow or have steep drops. Instagram

Using a good hiking map or a GPS device with downloaded offline maps is recommended. Trail markers can vary in clarity. Reddit

Facilities are very limited along the bisses themselves. Plan to use restrooms in nearby villages before starting your hike. Reddit

You might encounter various alpine birds, small mammals, and diverse plant life. Keep an eye out for chamois or ibex in higher altitudes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for viewpoints overlooking the valleys, the unique architecture of the bisses themselves, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Golden hour offers beautiful light. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain scenery. Consider a polarizing filter for vibrant skies. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide soft, warm light and dramatic shadows, ideal for landscape photography. Midday sun can be harsh. Instagram

The bisses themselves, with their historical significance and integration into the landscape, are unique subjects. Also, capture the wildflowers in spring and the autumn colors. Instagram

Weather can change quickly, impacting light and visibility. Limited accessibility to certain viewpoints might require hiking. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plans-Mayens offers a wonderful opportunity for families to explore nature. Many of the bisses provide relatively flat and easy walking paths, perfect for little legs. The novelty of walking alongside water channels can be captivating for children. Instagram

Key recommendations: Choose shorter, well-maintained bisses for younger children. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near the water's edge or any steeper sections. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Plans-Mayens a peaceful and rewarding destination. The well-defined bisses offer clear routes, and the serene environment is ideal for reflection and enjoying nature at your own pace. Instagram

Tips for solo hikers: Inform someone of your itinerary. Carry a fully charged phone and consider a portable power bank. Offline maps are essential for navigation. The bisses are generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ingenuity of the Bisses

The 'bisses' of Plans-Mayens are ancient irrigation channels, a testament to centuries of human ingenuity in harnessing water for agriculture in the alpine environment. These channels, often carved into hillsides or built with stone, are not just functional but have created unique walking paths that wind through the landscape. Many date back to the medieval period, showcasing a remarkable understanding of hydraulics and land management. Instagram

Walking along a bisse offers a unique perspective, allowing you to follow the flow of water and appreciate the effort involved in their construction and maintenance. The paths are often relatively flat, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. They provide a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty of the Val d'Anniviers, away from more strenuous mountain climbs. Instagram

Exploring these historical waterways is a journey back in time. You can learn about their construction, the communities they served, and the ongoing efforts to preserve them. It's a chance to connect with the history of the region and its relationship with water. Reddit

Hiking and Trail Etiquette

Plans-Mayens is a hiker's paradise, with its network of bisses offering diverse walking experiences. The trails range from easy, family-friendly strolls to more challenging routes that connect to higher mountain paths. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven and sometimes slippery. Instagram

When hiking, always be mindful of the environment. Stick to marked trails to avoid disturbing the local flora and fauna. Pack out everything you pack in, leaving no trace behind. Respect other hikers by yielding on narrow paths and keeping noise levels down to preserve the tranquility of the area. Reddit

It's also wise to check the weather forecast before setting out, as alpine conditions can change rapidly. Carrying sufficient water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit is recommended, as facilities are scarce along the bisses. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time, especially if venturing onto less-trafficked routes. Reddit

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