Hikes

Across the Raspille

Bisse de Varen – Varen Suone

Albinen

0/7°

Open

Discover the diversity of Valais on a route that takes you across the Raspille river and the Franco-German language border.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

10.69 km

Duration

3:15 h
Bisse de Varen – Varen Suone
Das Dorf Inden
Salgesch
Bisse de Varen – Varen Suone
Bisse de Varen / Varner Suone

Description

The starting point of this route is in the Valais village of Inden, which can be reached by bus or on foot from Leuk (Loèche) or Leukerbad (Loèche-les-Bains). From the late Middle Ages, the Romans already used this route to access the most productive thermal springs in the Alps, at Leuk. The path starts near the old station and follows the cultural trail Dala-Raspille and the track of the old Leuk-Leukerbad railway line, then continues along the mountain slope. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe described this section in 1779 as a path not dangerous but of a very frightening appearance. Despite some exposed parts, the path remains wide, technically easy, and partly secured by steel cables. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the wild Dala valley and the opposite side of the valley. Then cross the Raspille at La Proprija. This river marks the Franco-German language boundary of the canton. Finally, descend to the village of Miège and take the bus to Sierre.

Turn-by-turn directions

From the old Inden train station, the route descends gently along the cultural trail and the disused Leuk-Leukerbad railway line. The path then leads to a relatively steep climb, winding along the mountain slope. Upon reaching the edge of the "Schattuflüe" gorge, the route continues through the Varnerwald forest and along a forest path to the hamlet of Taschunieru. After a short climb, you reach the entrance to the Varen bisse (Grossi Wasserleitu). Following the right bank of the bisse, the trail crosses the scree slope of Varneralp. After crossing the Raspille river at La Proprija, the path finally descends towards Miège. From there, choose to extend your route to Sierre train station or take the bus back to your starting point.

Start

Inden (1135m)

Destination

Miège (699m)

Download GPX
Download KML

Author's recommendation

Discover the old lime kiln of Inden and immerse yourself in the Middle Ages.

Technical information

Altitude

1140m

699m

Ascent

+244m

Descent

-680m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • 'Healthy climate'
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Leuk (Loèche) is accessible by train (SBB), then by bus (LLB - Leuk Leukerbad Bus) to the starting point at Inden.

Approach

From Basel and Zurich: Highway A1 to Bern; A6 to Spiez; direction Kandersteg; car transfer Kandersteg - Goppenstein; direction Gampel; Leuk - Leukerbad.

From Geneva: Highway A1 to Lausanne; direction Sion/Sierre; Leuk - Leukerbad.

From Milan: Highway A8/A26 towards Simplon; car transfer Iselle-Brig; direction Leuk - Leukerbad.

Parking

Various parking options in the village of Inden. Follow the local parking guidance system.

Equipment

You use the routes and information on this website at your own risk. Conditions on the ground can change rapidly and cause route modifications. We are not responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information contained on this site.

For all your routes:

  • Always carry a map with you. You can download the full route description with a detailed map by clicking the "print" icon at the top right of the page.
  • Follow only marked trails and respect all signs – for your safety, to protect livestock, and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Remember to close gates after you pass through.
  • Be respectful to others, nature, plants, and animals.

For your mountain routes:

  • At high altitudes, protect yourself well from the sun. UV rays are strong, even when the sky is overcast.
  • Prepare well for your outing: consider your physical condition (and that of your companions), the weather, and the season.
  • Weather can change very quickly in the mountains. Take suitable clothing, enough food and water. If weather becomes uncertain, do not hesitate to turn back.

For your high mountain routes:

  • Inform someone of your route. And if possible, do not go alone.
  • Never venture onto a glacier without being accompanied by a mountain guide.
  • Pay attention to signs warning of dangers in riverbeds or near dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise suddenly and quickly.

Safety information

The mountain is a place of enjoyment that you share with others and respect. It offers you the opportunity to experience unforgettable moments, on foot or by bike. For everyone to enjoy it, it is essential to respect it, as well as nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to pursue their passion under the best conditions. Inform yourself about the recommendations and rules in force.

Evaluate your physical condition and abilities carefully. Using the different routes is always at your own risk.

Additional information

The tourist office in Leuk and Leukerbad provides brochures for routes in the region and can give you detailed information about this route.

Prepare your route

Status of installations

Maps

SwissTopo national maps 1:25,000 : 1287 Sierre

Source

This activity is brought to you by Leukerbad . Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.

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