La Passerelle à Farinet: A Bridge Through History

Walk across history on the thrilling Passerelle à Farinet, a suspension bridge offering stunning views and a connection to the legend of a Swiss folk hero in the heart of Valais.

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La Passerelle à Farinet

La Passerelle à Farinet, a pedestrian suspension bridge near Saillon, Switzerland, offers a thrilling walk with stunning views and a connection to local legend. Spanning the Salentse Gorge, the bridge is named after Joseph-Samuel Farinet, a 19th-century counterfeiter and folk hero. The bridge is 97 meters long and hangs 136 meters above the abyss where Farinet met his end while being pursued. The experience combines natural beauty with a touch of history, as the bridge is also near the world's smallest vineyard, owned by the Dalai Lama. The surrounding area offers hiking trails through vineyards and forests, making it a destination for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're drawn to the panoramic views, the historical intrigue, or the unique blend of nature and culture, La Passerelle à Farinet promises an unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to La Passerelle à Farinet

Ch. de la Passerelle, Saillon, 1912, CH

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes as the approach to the bridge involves some walking, and you might want to explore the surrounding hiking trails.
Visit the nearby Vigne à Farinet, the world's smallest vineyard, for a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into local viticulture.
Combine your visit with a trip to the Bains de Saillon thermal baths for a relaxing experience after your hike.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the bridge can be affected by strong winds.
Explore the medieval village of Saillon for a glimpse into the region's history and to enjoy local cuisine.

Getting There

Public Transport

From either Sion or Martigny, take the PostAuto bus line 311 to the 'Saillon, Collombeyres' stop. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the Passerelle à Farinet. Follow the signs towards the old town of Saillon, then continue towards the bridge. A single bus fare costs approximately CHF 3-5.
Walking

If you are already in Saillon, follow the marked hiking trails from the village center towards the Passerelle à Farinet. The walk from the village to the bridge takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, passing through vineyards and offering scenic views. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the bridge.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Martigny or Sion, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Saillon. From there, you would still need to walk the final distance to the bridge as cars cannot drive directly to it. A taxi from Martigny to Saillon will cost approximately CHF 60-75, while from Sion it will be around CHF 75-90. Be sure to confirm the final destination and walking distance with the driver.
Driving

If driving, follow the A9 motorway and take exit 23 (Saxon) from Martigny, or 24 (Riddes) from Sion. Follow the signs to Saillon. There are free parking areas available at Place Farinet, located at the foot of the village, and Parking des Remparts in the village. From the parking areas, follow the walking signs to the Passerelle à Farinet. Parking is free.

Discover more about La Passerelle à Farinet

La Passerelle à Farinet isn't just a bridge; it's a journey through history and nature, suspended high above the dramatic Salentse Gorge near the charming village of Saillon in the Valais region of Switzerland. This pedestrian suspension bridge, inaugurated in 2001, stretches 97 meters across and hangs a dizzying 136 meters above the gorge floor, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge is named in honor of Joseph-Samuel Farinet, a colorful character from the 19th century. Farinet was a notorious counterfeiter, producing fake coins in the area, and became a local folk hero, often portrayed as a Robin Hood figure. He met his demise in the very gorge the bridge now spans, allegedly falling to his death while being pursued by authorities. The circumstances surrounding his death remain shrouded in mystery, adding to the allure of the location. Crossing the Passerelle à Farinet is an exhilarating experience. The bridge sways gently with each step, providing an adrenaline rush alongside the stunning vistas. Looking down, you'll see the rushing waters of the Salentse River carving its way through the rocky landscape. The surrounding slopes are covered in vineyards, a testament to the region's rich winemaking heritage. In the distance, the majestic Swiss Alps provide a stunning backdrop, completing the picture-perfect scene. Beyond the bridge itself, the area offers a wealth of activities for visitors. Hiking trails wind through the vineyards and forests, providing opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region. One popular trail leads to the Vigne à Farinet, the world's smallest vineyard, owned by the Dalai Lama. This tiny plot of land, measuring just 1.6 square meters, is a quirky and charming attraction, symbolizing peace and international cooperation. Each year, celebrities and dignitaries tend to the vines, and the resulting wine is sold for charitable causes. Saillon, the nearby medieval village, is also worth exploring. Its well-preserved fortifications, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic buildings offer a glimpse into the past. The Tour de Bayart, a 13th-century tower, stands as a landmark and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The village also boasts a Counterfeit Money Museum, dedicated to the story of Farinet and the history of currency forgery. For those seeking relaxation, the Bains de Saillon thermal baths are located nearby. These thermal baths offer a range of pools, saunas, and spa treatments, providing a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. The baths are known for their therapeutic waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Passerelle à Farinet is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a symbol of the region's history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place where you can connect with the past, challenge your senses, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, La Passerelle à Farinet offers something for everyone. The bridge and surrounding area are particularly beautiful during the autumn months when the vineyards turn golden and red, creating a vibrant tapestry of color. However, the bridge is open year-round, offering different perspectives and experiences depending on the season. To fully appreciate the experience, allow at least half a day to explore the bridge, the surrounding trails, and the village of Saillon. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, and bring a camera to capture the stunning views. And don't forget to sample some of the local wines, a true taste of the Valais region. La Passerelle à Farinet is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring power of nature. It's a place where history, adventure, and relaxation come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Place de jeux des ecluses

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The Gallery

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MAD Mount Hotel

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Nendaz Tourisme

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Tourist Office of Verbier

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Les Guides de Verbier - Guides de montagne

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The Lodge

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Le Châble TV

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Unmissable attractions to see

Caverne des Géants - Tête du Géant

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Vigne à Farinet

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Explore the scenic beauty and winemaking traditions of Vigne à Farinet in Saillon, Switzerland. A perfect getaway for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Tour Bayart

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Explore the enchanting Tour Bayart in Saillon, Switzerland – a medieval castle offering stunning views and rich history amidst beautiful landscapes.

Les Bains de Saillon

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Place de la Bienveillance

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Bisse du Poteu

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Marais d'Ardon et de Chamoson

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Chalet Les Savoleyres

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Babylift

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Alpage

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Domaine Jean-René Germanier

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Sentier des sens

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La Maison de la forêt

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La Châtaigneraie

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Le Sentier des Adonis

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Le Vieux Chalet

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Hameau Les Clèves

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Restaurant de Tracouet

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Le Carnotzet L'Aigle

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Clos des Cimes

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La Cabane

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Hôtel Les Etagnes

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Restaurant Les Etagnes

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Le Verre d'ici

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Restaurant Le Grenier

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La Trattoria

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MADly Restaurant

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Discover the essence of Swiss style at Gentlemen Drivers, Haute-Nendaz's premier clothing shop for the modern man.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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La Passerelle à Farinet: A Bridge Through History

A brief summary to La Passerelle à Farinet

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of La Passerelle à Farinet

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Book tours with entry

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Discover more about La Passerelle à Farinet

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Place de jeux des ecluses

Chalet des Alpes

SPA des Bisses

Hôtel Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa

The Gallery

Edelweiss

MAD Mount Hotel

Nendaz Tourisme

Hôtel Cordée des Alpes

MAP Verbier-Village Hostel

Tourist Office of Verbier

Les Guides de Verbier - Guides de montagne

W Verbier

The Lodge

Le Châble TV

Unmissable attractions to see

Caverne des Géants - Tête du Géant

Vigne à Farinet

Tour Bayart

Les Bains de Saillon

Place de la Bienveillance

Bisse du Poteu

Marais d'Ardon et de Chamoson

Chalet Les Savoleyres

Babylift

Alpage

Domaine Jean-René Germanier

Sentier des sens

La Maison de la forêt

La Châtaigneraie

Le Sentier des Adonis

Essential places to dine

Le Vieux Valais & Aftersky

Chavalard

Le Vieux Chalet

Chef at home.alain palazzone(chef à domicile, traiteur, cours de cuisine,...)

Hameau Les Clèves

Restaurant de Tracouet

Le Carnotzet L'Aigle

Clos des Cimes

La Cabane

Hôtel Les Etagnes

Restaurant Les Etagnes

Le Verre d'ici

Restaurant Le Grenier

La Trattoria

MADly Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Tout un Canton - La Boutique du Valais

Sommet et Neige Retail and Rental

Sommet et Neige Retail and Rental Shop

Coop Supermarché Nendaz

Gaby Sports

Andrélie Homes

Baguette magique

Nendaz Kiosque

Supermarché Migros - Haute-Nendaz

Lowrider Teeshirt

ac crea design gmbh

Proxi

AlpsDiscovery

Pop Up Mountain Store

GENTLEMEN DRIVERS

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Le BOB - Ski bar bistro

EW Beer Sàrl