Saint-Marcel walks

A lovely autumn circular with magnificent views of the Aosta Valley and Cly Castle. Parking in Nus, pleasant climb in stages. On the way back, a meal or refreshment in Nus is a must!

A lovely hike in the Cogne area with stunning views of Gran Paradiso.

An easy but long day. No complaints about the climb. However, be careful towards the end as there are many paths that look alike. From Chardonney, there is little public transport. It is possible to hitchhike to Pont-Saint-Martin. With all the French place names, you wouldn’t think you were in Italy. From Pont-Saint-Martin, there are buses to Gressonney-Saint-Jean.

A fairly popular hike that takes you close to the foothills of Gran Paradiso. You might spot some ibex if you’re lucky!

A very long day. The descent to Oyace seems never-ending. On the other hand, once again, the scenery is magnificent and wild. It’s best to have a good rest in Oyace, as the final climb to the Col de Brison is very long. It’s almost over

Spectacular view over Gran Paradiso.

Signposting: trails No. 1, No. 2 then No. 3. High-altitude route from the Alpe de la Tsa to the Combe de Grand Chamin (fixed routes).

A superb winter route starting from Chamois. At Col Pilaz, you will be surprised to discover the Matterhorn to the north. A giant red bench offers a superb photo opportunity with the Cervinio in the background. On the south side, a magnificent panorama of the Paradis massif awaits you. The village of Chamois is the only car-free village in Italy. It is only accessible on foot, by bicycle or by cable car.

An average day on paper, but the fatigue is setting in. But it’s the penultimate day. The route is still clearly marked, so we don’t waste too much time getting lost. A stop at the Refuge de Champillon is a must. There’s a climb through the fields. The Col de Champillon is the last major pass before the finish.

This last stage takes place in an alpine setting. It justifies the choice of this alternative to the classic Tour des Combins. Unfortunately, the consequences of climate change are evident. The glaciers mentioned on the map no longer exist. Only rock piles remain. From the Col du Mont Gelé, the highest point of this trek, you must pay close attention to the path marked by cairns to follow on the descent. The position of these cairns is sometimes erratic. The end of this stage ends with a long and very steep descent, which can be avoided by staying on the pastoral road.

We leave the "TDC" to follow Alta Via No. 1 in the Aosta Valley until it crosses the road leading to Bionaz. In the old village, above the church and near a fountain, the trail marked Col de Breuson (Brison) begins. Hike with a brief description, to be followed with the Visorando app.

A route to discover the typical villages that line the famous Col du Grand Saint-Bernard road. On the way there, you will follow the Via Francigena to climb up to the village of Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, renowned for its cured ham. You will also pass through the villages of Étroubles, Saint-Oyen, Cerisey and Les Bosses, characterised by stone chalets with slate roofs.

Wait until there is no snow to do this hike safely. Round trip hike. You must be sure-footed and experienced in mountain walking. Starting from Lignod, pass in front of the church, which is currently being renovated, with its pretty fresco. Well-marked paths in the village allow you to leave it and climb towards Borbey. Pass a car park and take the path that continues to climb and gain altitude. You are on a Way of the Cross that climbs up to the Virgin of Mount Zerbion. The Col de Portela is visible and recognisable with its pylon. Cross the pass to reach Mount Zerbion and its virgin located at 2,723 metres above sea level, overlooking the Ayas valley.

A long day lies ahead with the climb to the Col de Lauzon (3,299m). This is the highest point of the TDG. The descent from the pass is pure delight. It is possible to run downhill for 3–4 km to the Vittorio Sella Refuge. It is a large refuge with plenty of people. The descent to Valnontey is also long, but there are plenty of cafés to rest in.

Punta Falinère is the peak overlooking the Chamois slopes. It offers views of its neighbours, the Petit and Grand Tournalin. To the north, you will discover more than 4000 Swiss peaks, including the Dent Blanche d'Hérens and the Matterhorn. To the south, the Grand Paradis will catch your eye.

High-altitude trail between 2,400 and 2,700 metres. Stop at the Oratorio di Cunei mountain hut to refuel before the final climb to the bivouac. Very well equipped with beds, gas, pots and pans, etc. There is a small lake and the view across the entire mountain range is magnificent.