Waterfalls around Vernayaz offer a range of natural features in the Swiss canton of Valais. This region is characterized by its mountainous terrain and rivers, which create numerous cascades. The area provides opportunities to explore impressive natural water formations and associated hiking trails. Vernayaz is a location where visitors can experience the power of water shaping the landscape.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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Popular around Vernayaz
A waterfall that is always spectacular.
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Cascade de Pissevache, also known as Cascade de Salanfe, is an impressive waterfall located between Martigny and Saint-Maurice in the canton of Valais. The Cascade de Pissevache has a height of 116 meters and is fed by the water of the Salanfe river. This majestic waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful sights in the country.
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The path through the gorge is short but spectacular.
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Cascade de Pissevache, also known as the Cascade de Salanfe, is an impressive waterfall located between Martigny and Saint-Maurice in the canton of Valais. The Cascade de Pissevache has a height of 116 meters and is fed by the water of the Salanfe River. This majestic waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful sights in the country.
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Wasserfall by Vernayaz is actually called: La Pissevache
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Interesting, often narrow path through the forest, rocky in places, with striking rock formations and cascading streams with small waterfalls
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Always looks nice when I drive by there.
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Vernayaz is home to several remarkable waterfalls. The Pissevache Waterfall, also known as Cascade de Salanfe, plunges 116 meters and is considered one of the most beautiful sights in the country. Another must-see is the Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls, a wild gorge featuring a powerful stream and 14 cascades, accessible via a kilometer-long path of footbridges and tunnels.
Yes, the Pissevache Waterfall is considered family-friendly due to its easy accessibility. There's parking directly in front, and a short path leads to its base. The Gorges du Dailley, while featuring stairs and footbridges, also offer an engaging experience for families who enjoy a more adventurous walk.
The region offers diverse hiking experiences. The Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls provide an intermediate hike along a kilometer-long path with 330 steps, footbridges, and tunnels. The Gorges du Dailley also feature an extraordinary walk with wooden stairs and tunnels through magnificent pine forests. For more hiking options, you can explore various trails in the area, including routes like 'Cabane Les Amis du Dailly – Dailley Gorge Waterfalls loop from Salvan' or 'View of the Rhône Valley – Mont Blanc Express Train loop from Vernayaz MC'. Find more details on the Hiking around Vernayaz guide.
The Pissevache Waterfall is highly accessible, with parking directly in front and a short, easy path to its base. The Gorges du Durnand and Gorges du Dailley involve more walking, including stairs and footbridges, making them less suitable for wheelchairs but generally accessible for those who can manage moderate walking.
The waterfalls are particularly impressive when the rivers are in full flow, typically during spring and early summer due to snowmelt, or after heavy rainfall. The Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls are open from May 1 to October 31. The coolness within the Gorges du Dailley is especially welcoming on hot summer days.
Yes, the Pissevache Waterfall has historical significance. Before a dam was built in 1950, its flow was even more substantial, attracting tourists and artists as early as the 1860s. The Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls, with their constructed footbridges and tunnels, were originally built in 1877 and renovated in 1987, showcasing a long history of making natural wonders accessible.
Absolutely. The Beautiful bike path along the Rhône offers pleasant riding and provides access to the Pissevache Waterfall. You can find various road cycling routes in the area, such as the 'Château de Saint-Maurice – Pissevache Waterfall loop from Vernayaz'. Explore more cycling options on the Road Cycling Routes around Vernayaz guide.
The Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls are open from May 1 to October 31, from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission costs 8 CHF for adults and 5 CHF for children aged 6 to 15 years.
The Gorges du Dailley offer a rich display of natural features. Beyond the multi-stage cascades, you'll find magnificent pine forests, breathtaking views of distant snowy Alpine peaks, and an unusual 'wedged rock.' The constant action of the water has also sculpted the rocks, creating a unique geological landscape.
Yes, Vernayaz offers several mountain biking opportunities. While not directly adjacent to all waterfalls, trails like 'Col du Jorat depuis Vernayaz en boucle' or 'Route de la Diligence — Finhaut depuis Vernayaz' are in the broader region. You can find more detailed routes and their difficulties on the MTB Trails around Vernayaz guide.
Visitors are often captivated by the raw power and natural beauty of the cascading water. The serene atmosphere at Pissevache Waterfall offers a peaceful encounter with nature, while the immersive experience of walking through the Gorges du Durnand Waterfalls, with its footbridges and tunnels, is frequently praised for its wild and imposing scenery.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Vernayaz: