The best hikes in Valle d’Aosta

Lago Servaz

Elevation gain: 550 meters

Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes

Difficulty: E (Hiking)

Trail markers: 5B and 5C
The trail crosses one of the most peaceful areas of the Mont Avic Natural Park, passing through dense coniferous forests. During the hike, you may spot wildlife such as marmots and golden eagles, typical of this unspoiled region. Lago Servaz is known for its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by high peaks and forests, making it the perfect spot for a rejuvenating break.

Lago Bianco - Rifugio Barbustel
• Elevation gain: 800 meters
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 5 and 5C

This trail leads to the picturesque Lago Bianco, passing through a series of small mountain lakes nestled among the rocks.

The Barbustel refuge at Lac Blanc is located at 2,200 meters near the Blanc, Noir, Cornu, and Vallette lakes. From the refuge, you can enjoy a splendid panorama of Mont Avic and the Pennine Alps, including Monte Rosa, the Matterhorn, and Dent d'Hérens. The refuge is an ideal rest stop to savor typical dishes from the Aosta Valley and can accommodate around forty people in dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds. It is open from late June to September 16.

An additional point of interest is the lake itself: its waters change colors throughout the day depending on the light, creating spectacular displays. This hike is perfect for those who wish to combine relaxation with nature.

Lago Gelato (Lac Gelée)
• Elevation gain: Approximately 1,356 meters
• Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 5b, 5c, and 6

Starting from Chevrère (1,300 m), follow trail 5b-5c to the locality "Magazzino." From there, take trail 6, which leads through alpine landscapes to Lago Gelato (or Lac Gelée), located at 2,656 meters. The lake, of glacial origin, is surrounded by rocky terrain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, creating an alpine atmosphere of rare beauty and tranquility.

Pra Oursie
• Elevation gain: Approximately 300-500 meters (varies depending on the route)
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 7 and 7B

Starting from Veulla, follow trail 7-7A, which climbs steeply through forests of Scots pine and mountain pine. The trail continues until it reaches Pra Oursie, a panoramic alpine pasture located at around 1,794 meters, where you can admire the meadows and splendid views of the surrounding peaks.

The "Maison du Lord" is located near the Pra Oursie alpine pasture at an altitude of 1,795 meters, offering a panoramic view over much of the Champdepraz valley. Once the residence of a wealthy British family at the end of the 19th century, it is now part of a regional property managed by the park. It was recently renovated and now hosts a refuge and lodging called La Vallée Blanche.

Monte Barbeston
• Elevation gain: 1,176 meters
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 7 and 7B

Starting from Veulla, follow trail 7 and then continue on trail 7B towards Col di Valmeriana. From there, the trail continues along the ridge to the summit of Monte Barbeston at 2,483 meters. The hike offers magnificent panoramic views, including those of Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn.

Chevrère - Fussy - Gettaz des Allemands
• Elevation gain: Approximately 200 meters
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 4

Starting from Chevrère, follow trail marker 4 until you reach the Fussy alpine pasture, an ideal spot to admire alpine panoramas and surrounding meadows. Continuing on trail marker 4A, you cross peat bogs and alpine meadows, eventually arriving at the historic site of Gettaz des Allemands, which preserves traces of ancient inhabitants of Germanic origin. This circular route offers a hiking experience immersed in the nature and history of the Mont Avic Natural Park.

Hérin Mines via Barbustel
• Elevation gain: Approximately 680 meters
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail markers: 8A

Starting from Chevrère, you can reach the village of Barbustel either by car or on foot, a small settlement typical of the area. From here, follow trail marker 8A, which leads to the Hérin mines, a historically significant site for copper and iron extraction. Along the way, you'll pass through coniferous forests and enjoy panoramic views of Mont Avic and the valley below. The mines, once vital to the local economy, now offer an interesting destination for hikers.