The original Bisse du Torrent Neuf was abandoned in 1965 due to the high risks of falling rocks and the difficulty of maintenance.
The current path uses modern suspension bridges to safely bypass the most dangerous, unstable sections of the 15th-century cliff face.
It is part of a larger network of 'bisses' (suonen) in the Valais region, which are historical man-made water channels.
The path is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 meters above sea level.
Construction of the new suspension bridge route was completed in 2010 to restore access to this historic site.
The bridges vary in length, with the longest measuring approximately 120 meters.
The Bisse du Torrent Neuf is a historic irrigation channel path located in Savièse, Valais, featuring three high-altitude suspension bridges that span sheer rock faces. Originally constructed in the 15th century to transport water from the Morge river to the sun-drenched slopes of Savièse, the path follows the precarious cliffs of the Sanetsch gorge. The route is accessible to pedestrians and replaces the former 'bisse' path that was carved directly into the cliff. The trail incorporates high-tension steel bridges designed for stability and panoramic valley views. It remains one of the few remaining examples of traditional Swiss irrigation engineering still accessible to the public. The path offers a mix of tunnel segments and open mountain trails.
The center of the second suspension bridge, facing west toward the sheer vertical canyon walls.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the terrain is uneven and gravelly.
Bring a windproof jacket, as the wind speed increases significantly when crossing the suspension bridges.
If you are uncomfortable with heights, note that the bridges are high-tension and stable, but provide an unobstructed view of the drop below.
Attempting to walk the path during or immediately after heavy rain or storms due to the risk of falling debris in the gorge.
Open seasonally from spring through late autumn; strictly closed during winter months due to ice and snow hazards.
Hikers should yield to those going uphill; do not throw objects from the bridges; stick strictly to the marked path.
