Best canyons around Chamois Aosta Valley Italy are found within a unique mountainous region. Chamois, located in the Aosta Valley, is notable as the only Italian municipality not accessible by motorized vehicles, relying on cable car or walking paths. The broader Aosta Valley is characterized by dramatic geological formations, including deeply incised valleys and gorges shaped by glacial and river action. These features provide diverse landscapes for hiking and exploration.
Last updated: June 2, 2026
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While you wait for a clear night sky in Saint-Barthélemy (we can't forget that this is the location of the Regional Astronomical Observatory), don't miss the chance for a ski "trial lesson" on the surrounding slopes. Sunscreen and sunglasses should not be forgotten, because the 30 km long resort has no less than 250 days of sunshine per year. The cross-country trails cross the snow-covered meadows of Lignan, reaching an altitude of 1,700 meters at their highest point and the village of Champcombre, where the tracks begin at 1800 meters. There is a huge panorama to see: the Val Clavalité, the great valley of Saint Marcel and Mont Emilius in the south; the gorge of the Saint Barthélemy valley in the north. The slope at Lignan, starting from the town square, directly above the church, extends over a circuit of 3.5 km and in two circuits of 2 km, with easy to medium difficulty. The slopes of Champcombre start in the small hamlet of Porliod and extend to the upper valley of Saint Barthélemy, following the extensive semicircular morphology, until Ollière, at an altitude of 2000 meters. The slopes in Champcombre follow a linear route, on the sides of which there are three circuits: each of the routes can still be followed, from one to the other via dedicated transfer tracks. The direct route is of easy to medium difficulty and is located far from roads and inhabited centers, in a beautiful natural environment. Source: https://www.lovevda.it/en/sport/cross-country-skiing/saint-barthelemy
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Arriving from the upper mountain pasture, on the descent from Cunéy to the Magià refuge, the path suddenly changes and you enter this suggestive and stony stretch with beautiful small waterfalls
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It can be reached in about 20/30 minutes on foot from the car park near the Roman bridge. Follow the paved road keeping to the right, skirting an area with a car wash, body shop...at the bottom, an indicative signpost on the right for the bridge which you will find just under the motorway! Particular 😊
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Beautiful valley, once a glacier and now an expanse of meadows and pastures and a starting point for numerous treks
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An enchanting valley for landscapes, woods and meadows
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To visit the caves you have to buy the ticket in the restaurant you find in passing ... the cost of the ticket is € 2.50
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The area around Chamois, nestled in the Aosta Valley, is characterized by dramatic geological formations. You'll find deeply incised valleys and gorges shaped by ancient glacial and river action. Highlights include the expansive meadows and pastures of Vallone di Verra, the scenic landscapes of Saint-Barthélemy Valley, and the unique Busserailles Caves and Waterfall.
Yes, several areas are highly recommended. Vallone di Verra is a beautiful valley, once a glacier, now an expanse of meadows and pastures, serving as a starting point for numerous treks. The Saint-Barthélemy Valley offers enchanting landscapes, woods, and meadows with panoramic views. You can also visit the Busserailles Caves and Waterfall for a unique natural experience.
The mountainous terrain around Chamois is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop' or the 'Chamois to Col Pilaz Loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling and touring bicycle routes available. Find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Hiking around Chamois, Road Cycling Routes around Chamois, and Cycling around Chamois.
Chamois is unique as the only municipality in Italy not accessible by motorized vehicles. Visitors typically reach the town by cable car or via walking paths. This car-free environment contributes to its tranquil atmosphere and natural preservation.
Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. The Saint-Barthélemy Valley is noted for its panorama, including the Val Clavalité and Mont Emilius. Additionally, the Ponte delle Capre (Goat Bridge) offers a unique perspective over a gorge, and the Freideron Stream Waterfalls trail also provides scenic views.
The valleys and gorges around Chamois are primarily the result of ancient glacial and river action. This has created deeply incised valley systems and dramatic formations. For instance, Vallone di Verra was once a glacier, now transformed into expansive meadows and pastures, showcasing the region's geological history.
Yes, the Busserailles Caves and Waterfall is a notable natural monument near Chamois. It offers a unique natural experience with its caves and cascading waterfall. To visit the caves, you typically need to purchase a ticket from the nearby restaurant.
Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from ancient glacial valleys to river-carved formations. The tranquility of the car-free environment and the opportunities for hiking and exploring natural beauty are frequently highlighted. The komoot community has shared 5 photos and given 41 upvotes for the gorges around Chamois, indicating a strong positive reception.
The Ponte delle Capre (Goat Bridge) is a distinctive bridge situated over a gorge, offering interesting views of the river below. It's reachable by a short walk from a nearby car park.
Yes, waterfalls are a feature of the region's natural landscape. The Busserailles Caves and Waterfall is a prominent example, offering a combined experience of caves and a waterfall. Additionally, the Freideron Stream Waterfalls provide a suggestive stretch with beautiful small waterfalls along a trail.
While specific 'best times' for canyoning are not detailed for this region, the Aosta Valley, being alpine, generally offers pleasant conditions for hiking and exploring its natural features from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is more conducive to outdoor activities.


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