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Grand bisse de Lens

Dating back to the middle of the XVth century, the Grand Bisse de Lens is an important element of local and cultural history in the Crans-Montana region. Like all Valaisan bisses, for centuries it helped irrigate vines and other crops which served to feed the inhabitants of Valais. From Chermignon d'en Bas to the Lienne, heading upstream, treat yourself to a stroll back in time. You?ll be left speechless by the enormity of the work carried out by our ancestors to bring the gushing water of the Lienne to the vineyards which extend over the lower hills of Crans-Montana. During your journey, place yourself under the protection of the Christ-Roi, this monumental statue constructed in the 1930s to mark the XIXth century of the death of Christ. The brave won?t hesitate to climb to the top of the Châtelard hill where the Christ-Roi stands, in order to gaze at the Rhône Valley below. Thanks to the support of the Swiss foundation for the protection and improvement of the countryside, and the communes of Crans-Montana, part of the bisse hewn out of the rock once again carries water. This steep route is not advised for those scared of heights.

OUR ADVICE
This is a Valaisan bisse and, like the majority of them, it is known for its vertiginous crossings hanging on the side of the mountain. If feeling anxious, don't hesitate to turn back round, instead of carrying on and having bad memories of the walk.

Turn-by-turn directions

Departure from Icogne, Route du Village - Chemin de Grand Bisse du Lens - Bisse de Lens - Lac de Combuissan - Arrival in Chermignon-d'en-Bas, Rue des Pirredrittes, at the football pitch

In pictures