Itinerary: Valsavarenche, Aosta, Sarre, Aymavilles, Introd, Creton, Dégioz, Gran Paradiso National Park
Valsavarenche in Aosta Valley: a wild and charming valley
Valsavarenche is a beautiful valley located in the south-western side of Aosta Valley, and takes its name from Savara river, a tributary of Dora Baltea that flows here. The valley is almost completely included in Gran Paradiso National Park, one of the most popular and charming parks in Italy. Although it is a secluded valley, Valsavarenche is linked to the surrounding valleys thanks to some mountain passes. The valley hosts many mountain shelters and camping sites for tourists and hikers.
Let's start from Aosta in the direction of Sarre, where you can visit the royal hunting residence of King Vittorio Emanuele II of Savoy pic n°4, today a museum. The tour goes on towards the village of Aymavilles whose beautiful castle features 4 cylindrical towers that enclose a square-based central building.
Then you will reach Introd, a small town that hosts "Parco Animalier", a wonderful park where the animals of the region Aosta Valley such as ibex, chamois, deer, marmots, rabbits, owls live free and can be watched closely. The park is open every day from April 1 to November 30.
From now on, the route takes you to the heart of Valsavarenche and to Gran Paradiso National Park. This park is the oldest national park in Italy: it was established in 1922 to celebrate the beauty and majesty of Gran Paradiso, which is the only mountain over 4,000 meters of height entirely located in Italy. The Park is also a great destination for those who love nature, flora and fauna.
The whole Valsavarenche valley is a perfect place for hikers and trekkers, especially for beginners, thanks to the many easy-level paths and routes. The valley is also scattered with many picturesque mountain villages, such as Chevrere, Fenile, Bois de' Clin, Rovenaud, Creton, Tignet, Maisonasse, Eau Rousse, Pessey and Pont.
Dégioz is an ancient village and the main town of the valley, although it is not larger than a village. Here, you can find the visitor center and the Church of Madonna del Carmine.
Valsavarenche is your ideal destination if you are dreaming about a quiet and relaxing holiday, or being surrounded by pristine nature and majestic, towering mountains.
Also, if you come here in August, do not miss the traditional festival dedicated to a special cooking method called Civet: different types of red meat are marinated in red wine and spices and then stewed. A good chance to try the local cuisine!
It starts: Aosta
It ends: Gran Paradiso
Length: Km 31
Some pics of Valsavarenche Valley and Gran Paradiso National Park: