A circular walk to the Basilica of Oropa starting from Favoro di Là

This walk, starting from Plan de Coumarial, takes in five superb lakes in the Mont Mars Nature Reserve: the Vargno reservoir, the upper and lower Lounc lakes, and the Barma lakes. The suggested route follows the signposted paths No. 2D and 2C and the Via Alta No. 1. Path 2C, which overlooks Lake Vargno, is rated EE and is reserved for walkers accustomed to mountain walking. It is fully equipped with rope descents and via ferrata-style fixings at sections deemed difficult.

This circular route, starting from Plan de Coumarial, above the village of Fontainemore, offers the chance to explore the varied mid- and high-mountain landscapes of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve and the lakes of Gaudin, Montagnet and Carisey. The section along the ridge between the Sella and Carisey passes, which marks the border between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont, is well worth a detour. This very well-signposted route follows, in turn, path no. 3A, the Via Alta no. 1 and then path no. 3. The ascent to the Sella Pass has been well maintained and presents no particular difficulty for a walker accustomed to mountain walking.

This circular walk, starting from the hamlet of Niel, passes through the Mologna Grande and Lazouney passes, offering views of the Piedmont and the Loo mountain pasture. It takes you past the lakes of Grekij and Suckie. The stretch between the two passes also offers a superb view of the Lys valley between Gaby and Issime. This route, which is very well signposted, follows trails nos. 6B, 6A and 6 (GSW) in succession.

This circular walk takes you up to the little-visited lakes of Siaua and allows you to explore a historic valley associated with Walser settlement, featuring numerous old stone and timber dwellings from that period. The route is well signposted and follows paths nos. 1, 1F, 1A and GSW in succession.

This circular route, which passes over two mountain passes, allows you to explore the Frudière lakes in the Ayas Valley and to admire magnificent views of the Monte Rosa massif throughout the walk. This route is very difficult and is reserved for experienced walkers. Indeed, the ascent to Colletto de Taf from the Col de Frudière follows a narrow, vertiginous path where sure-footedness is essential. This climb also requires you to use your hands in certain sections. The route follows paths nos. 3A, 9B and 1A (EE) in succession.

That’s the end of the southern section. This hike takes in a different landscape, with the Swiss Alps in view. It feels like we’re in Germany. It’s a lovely day. After the climb, the hike descends back into the valley. As with Eaux Rousses, it’s best to book in advance as the refuge is very popular. In fact, there are two of them and they’re full by early July.

The upper Palasinaz valley boasts some truly valuable natural treasures, including the famous plateau of lakes. An easy but long walk from Estoul (1,884 metres) takes you up to the plateau of lakes in four hours via a marked forest road (Route No. 6). Trail No. 5A then leads to the Valfredda Lakes (2,564 metres), with the option of a variant, while No. 4 continues towards the Bataille Lakes (2,484 m), Potcha (2,517 m) and Long (2,632 m), the route of this hike.

The trail winds through the forest for a good while and, after a near-flat section, becomes steeper... and remains moderately steep until you reach the small Lac d'Estoul (2,434 m). Leave trail No. 6B on your right and stay on trail No. 6A, which in a few minutes reaches the magnificent Lac Chamen.On the way back, our route goes around Lac Chamen to the east and becomes steeper, even very steep at times, to reach Colletto Valnera at 2,681m. Then follow the trail heading north-east (i.e. to the right) to the summit of Punta Valnera (2,754 m). This short route to the summit is not difficult, apart from the steepness of the slope. In good weather, this beautiful peak, which is relatively easy to reach, offers a vast panorama. The return journey follows the same route.