4.7
(155)
1,939
riders
54
rides
Touring cycling routes around Bionaz are set within the Valpelline valley of the Aosta Valley, Italy, at an elevation of 1,600 meters. The region is characterized by an amphitheater of peaks, including the Dent d'Hérens, and features a verdant basin with grasslands and forests. A significant natural highlight is the Montagnayes Nature Reserve, alongside numerous glaciers and picturesque Alpine lakes. The area also includes the large Place Moulin Dam and its hydroelectric reservoir, offering largely flat paths suitable for cycling.
…Last updated: July 18, 2026
4.8
(4)
48
riders
9.50km
00:55
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(45)
191
riders
25.8km
03:02
1,110m
1,110m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(15)
106
riders
21.0km
02:31
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
78
riders
19.5km
01:41
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
46
riders
24.4km
02:09
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bionaz
Il Prarayer is an alpine plateau located at about 2000 meters above sea level, at the end of the Place-Moulin lake. It is reached by a simple path that runs along the lake, almost always flat. The environment is open, with meadows, small streams, and some alpine pasture buildings. The landscape is surrounded by high peaks and glacial environments, clearly visible in the background. The Rifugio Prarayer is located here, used as a base for longer excursions. The area is suitable for a quiet break after the walk along the lake. Itineraries to side valleys and high-altitude routes start from here. Despite the altitude, the setting remains accessible and not very demanding.
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The Place Moulin dam is a majestic arch-gravity dam, designed to make the most of the narrow and incised conformation of the valley. Its concrete structure develops with a slight curvature, which allows the water's thrust to be transferred to the lateral rock walls, reducing direct pressure on the base and ensuring high stability. With a height of approximately 155 meters and a crest length of over 600 meters, it represents one of the most imposing hydraulic works in the Italian Alps. The artificial basin formed upstream reaches a capacity of over 100 million cubic meters of water, mainly fed by the Buthier stream and glacial meltwater. The plant is an integral part of a hydroelectric system: the accumulated water is conveyed through penstocks to power plants located downstream, where the head is transformed into energy. The management of levels is regulated by surface and bottom outlets, designed to control both floods and ordinary releases.
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The Marmitta dei Giganti in Bionaz is a striking cavity carved into the rock that tells of the power of the alpine glaciers. It formed during the last ice age, when meltwaters, laden with sand and stones, channeled into powerful vortices: the debris, rotating ceaselessly, smoothed the rock to create this deep, almost perfectly shaped "pot". Alongside the scientific explanation, the charm of legend also survives: it is said that giants dug these cavities, using them as containers or leaving their superhuman strength imprinted on them. It is precisely this intertwining of nature and imagination that makes the place so fascinating.
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Very peaceful walk around the lake and majestic lake.
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You can also stay for just a few hours: the hour costs 50 cents (as of 2025).
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At the hut, you can enjoy good, traditional dishes at really fair prices. In good weather, you can enjoy the view of the lake from the terrace. If the weather is bad, there's plenty of space inside, too.
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Finding a locomotive with a railway line up there is something special 😄
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In the winter months, Alpe Liortere (or Lyorté) is easily accessible from Crepin with snowshoes, following the farm road that turns into a comfortable track. The climb, gentle and gradual, does not present any difficulty, making the route suitable for everyone.
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There are over 40 touring cycling routes around Bionaz, offering a diverse range of experiences for all skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Bionaz's touring cycling routes feature varied terrain, from mostly paved paths along the Along Lake Place Moulin route to more challenging unpaved segments in alpine areas. You'll encounter verdant grasslands, lush forests, and stunning mountain panoramas, with some routes leading to high Alpine dams and lakes.
Yes, Bionaz offers easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Along Lake Place Moulin route is an easy 9.5 km trail that provides picturesque views of the reservoir and is largely flat. The path along the emerald green waters of Lake Place Moulin to Rifugio Prarayer is even accessible for strollers, making it very family-friendly.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the impressive Place Moulin Dam and its vast hydroelectric reservoir, explore the Montagnayes Nature Reserve with its diverse flora and fauna, or discover picturesque alpine lakes like Lago Lexert. The Valpelline valley itself offers stunning alpine panoramas and an unspoiled natural environment.
Yes, there are circular routes available. For example, the Place Moulin Dam – Place-Moulin Lake loop from Oyace is a 27.7 km trail that takes you through alpine landscapes and past the impressive dam, returning to your starting point.
The best time for touring cycling in Bionaz is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the alpine passes are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable. This allows for full access to the diverse terrain and ensures a pleasant experience amidst the stunning mountain scenery.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Breuil-Cervinia Village – Lago Blu loop from Singlin Superiore offer difficult alpine terrain with significant climbs and expansive views. These routes often navigate higher elevations and require good fitness.
Yes, numerous mountain refuges such as Rifugio Prarayer, Crête Sèche, Nacamuli, and Aosta are available. These refuges provide opportunities for rest, traditional mountain dishes, and even overnight stays during longer cycling expeditions. You'll find them strategically located along many routes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking alpine panoramas, the tranquility of the Valpelline valley, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from serene lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents.
Yes, the region around Bionaz features several beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter the Porteiller Stream Waterfall or the Arbbach Waterfall. The area also boasts twenty glaciers that feed numerous picturesque alpine lakes, adding to the stunning natural landscape.
Parking is generally available at key access points for the touring cycling routes, particularly near popular starting points like the Place Moulin Dam area or villages within the Valpelline. Specific parking information can often be found on local signage or detailed route descriptions.


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