A stunning, autonomous region in the Italian Alps, the Aosta valley is a walker's paradise. This guidebook describes 32 varied and scenic routes both within the main valley and those to the north (including the Lys valley, Valpelline, Valtournenche and Grand St Bernard). The routes vary in difficulty and distance, offering something for walkers of all ability.
1:50K mapping together with gradient profiles complement clear and concise route descriptions. Also included is invaluable practical information - everything from travel options and insurance to useful phrases and a handy kit list. Information on via ferratas and trail running is also included for those interested in discovering additional activities available in the area.
A region of immense beauty, the Aosta valley is a must-visit destination. This selection of walks take in ethereal glaciers, majestic mountain tops and enchanting valley forests. Long or short, easy or challenging, the routes abound in history, and soak up the rich and varied culture of the region.
Walking in the Aosta Valley : Walks and scrambles in the shadows of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa
Description
Table of Contents
Map key
Overview map
Route summary table
Introduction
Geography
Geology
Wildlife
Plants and flowers
Weather
History
Art and culture
Trail running
Places of interest
When to go
Access and travel
Accommodation
Clothing
Food and drink
Language
Maps and navigation
Waymarking
Safety and emergencies
Insurance
Using this guide
Main Valley
Route 1 Forte di Bard and the Roman road, Donnas
Route 2 Napoleon's diversion route
Lower Lys Valley
Route 3 Plan des Sorci res and Col Portola
Route 4 The Two Monts: Mont Roux and Mont Bechit
Route 5 Colma di Mombarone
Route 6 Mont Mars traverse
Upper Lys Valley
Route 7 Via Regina to Castel Savoia
Route 8 Punta Regina: the queen's peak
Route 9 Alpenzu and the Walser villages
Route 10 Source of the Lys
Route 11 Punta Indren and Indren glacier crossing
Route 12 Bettolina ridge to Rifugio Quintino Sella
Valtournenche and Cervin/Matterhorn
Route 13 Eastern balcony: Cervinia to Valtournenche
Route 14 Western balcony: Cervinia to Valtournenche
Route 15 Becca d'Aran
Valpelline
Route 16 Rifugio Prarayer
Route 17 Ru di-z-Aagne and Fontina
Route 18 Lac Mort
Route 19 Ru du Rey: a marvel of hydro-engineering
Route 20 Pointe Cornet
Route 21 Alta Via 1: Col de Breuson
Route 22 Rifugio and Col Champillon
Great Saint Bernard Pass
Route 23 Via Francigena to Great St Bernard Monastery
Route 24 Mont Fourchon
Route 25 Two Cols
Route 26 Grande Chenalette and Pointe de Drone via ferrata
Upper Aosta Valley - Courmayeur
Route 27 Mont Ch tif
Route 28 Mont de la Saxe and Col Sapin
Route 29 Rifugio Bonatti and Mont Blanc panorama
Route 30 Mont Fortin
Route 31 Tour of the Pyramides Calcaires
Route 32 Mont Ch tif via ferrata
Appendix A Useful contacts
Appendix B Useful phrases
Appendix C Clothing and equipment
Author Description
Andy was born and bred in Northern England and first developed his mountain skills in the Lake District and Snowdonia. Since discovering the joys of the Alps with a Cicerone guidebook in 1999, Andy and his wife Sue have explored much of the Western Alps, walking, running, cycling, ski touring and snowshoeing. With 25 years' service in Dartmoor Search and Rescue, Andy has vast experience of the moors and recently completed the in-depth training and assessments to become a qualified International Mountain Leader.