Hiking in Valle d’Aosta at the foot of Gran Paradiso and the Monte Rosa.
Trip Classification: Strenuous
Overview. Iconic Gran Paradiso National Park, the oldest in Italy, the adjacent lesser-known Mont Avic Regional Park, and the Gressoney Valley at the foot of Monte Rosa will provide the backdrop for a week of spectacular hiking in one of the most beautiful mountain areas in Italy, the Aosta Valley. Weather permitting, we will enjoy great views of the highest peaks in the Western Alps–Mont Blanc (4,810 m, 15,781′), Monte Rosa (4,633 m, 15203′), the Matterhorn (4,478 m, 14,692′), and Gran Paradiso (4,061 m, 13,323′). We will explore the various natural environments that the area offers: shaded woods and gentle pastures, flower-filled meadows and blue glacial lakes, alpine plateaus, rocky peaks, and possibly some snow fields. Wildlife is frequently seen in the parks: marmots, ibex, chamois, eagles, and others. We will experience true alpine hiking with a night in a hut and finish our week at the foot of the Monte Rosa, getting close to its glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
- GRAN PARADISO NATIONAL PARK. On Day 1 we will meet in Milan and transfer to Valle d’Aosta and explore Cogne, where we will stay the next three nights. Starting with an afternoon hike in Cogne we will spend three days around alpine lakes and waterfalls and mountain huts perched high above the valley floor. We will be hiking in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park and will hopefully get to see a few ibex, together with chamois, marmots, and possibly an eagle or bearded vulture.
- MONT AVIC REGIONAL PARK. On Day 4 we will transfer to Champdepraz and hike to Rifugio Barbustel, where we will overnight, for our chance to experience a stay in an alpine hut. Our hikes will take us to lakes and peaks.
- AT THE FOOT OF AND UP TOWARDS THE MONTE ROSA. On Days 7-8, we will get to know the culture of the local Walser people, descendants of German-Swiss farmers and herders who settled here in the 13th century. We will hike across old hamlets and take on the final challenge of the trip: the hike up towards the source of the valley’s river to take a close look at the Monte Rosa glaciers. We will then descend to Gressoney for a well-deserved farewell dinner.
Trip cost. The trip cost is €3,200 for 6-8 participants; € 3500 for 4-5 participants per person in double occupancy, depending on group size. The single supplement will be €500 for all nights excluding the night in the mountain lodge where accommodation will be dormitory-style. The trip cost will include private transfers to, from and between valleys and public transport within, accommodation in four-star and three-star hotels and a mountain lodge, and most meals. It does not include air fares to Italy, some meals on your own, or tips to guides.
Program Description. For the detailed itinerary of the trip Click here. If you have responded to the survey and are eligible for the trip the registration form will be sent to you if there is space for you on the trip and if your hiking experience qualifies you for this Strenuous hiking trip which includes some days involving Very Strenuous hiking.
Tour Operator: Passamontagna Viaggi, a small tour operator based in Central Italy with experience organizing hiking trips. Website: https://www.passamontagnaviaggi.it
Trip Organizer and Guide: Giovanna Prennushi (gioprennushi@gmail.com)
1818 Trip Coordinator: Anis Dani (adani@1818alumniwbg.org)
