Attractions and Places To See around Oyace - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Oyace, a mountain village in Italy's Aosta Valley, are characterized by historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Situated at 1377 meters in the Valpelline valley, Oyace is surrounded by the rocky peaks of the Morion chain and traversed by the Buthier river. The area offers a blend of traditional alpine architecture and high pastures, making it a destination for exploring the Pennine Alps.
Best attractions and places to see around Oyace
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Last updated: May 9, 2026
Place Moulin Dam
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Cuney Refuge and Oratory
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Rifugio Magià
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Cima Longhede summit and Bisaone Cross
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Arch of Augustus
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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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The Rifugio Oratorio di Cunéy, perched at 2,652 meters in the heart of the Saint-Barthélemy valley, stands next to the sanctuary of the Madonna delle Nevi, one of the highest in Europe. Built on the ruins of a chapel dating back to 1656, it now welcomes hikers with simple warmth, wooden rooms, and home-cooked food, becoming a refuge and place of pilgrimage. The path to reach it from Lignan or Porliod winds through larch forests, pastures, and alpine lakes, up to the panoramic Col du Salvé, a prelude to the Cunéy basin, where the surrounding peaks protect this wild and sacred corner. In a single dive, sacredness merges with the mountain warmth: here the silence is profound, interrupted only by the wind and prayers, and every night captures the essence of haute montagne and alpine simplicity. At the back, a winter shelter (open all year round) is available to hikers who, having reached this place, wish to stop for the night, although the refuge and chapel are closed during the winter and low season.
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near the refuge, the oratory is a witness to mountain civilization. Worth seeing are the ex-votos of the locals. Always open, the oratory reflects the great sacredness of the places and the mountains around.
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A large white cross symbolizes this peak. It is often joined to Becca d'Aver, connected by an easy ridge path. There is not much space at the summit, and on summer weekends it is crowded. Here, after a short break to admire the view, it is worth descending and having a lunch break on the plains below.
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The Arco di Augusto was built in 25 BC in honour of Emperor Augustus after the Roman victory over the Salassi. This impressive arch marks the northern entrance to the city and is located in line with the decumanus maximus. It is made of conglomerate blocks and has a single arch with a height of 11.40 metres. The ten half-columns on the facades and sides are decorated with Corinthian capitals. The Doric frieze, with metopes and triglyphs, adds a classical touch. In the Middle Ages it was known as Saint-Voût because of an image of the Redeemer that was placed there. During the 12th century it served as a residence for a local noble family and later as a fortress for the balestrieri. In 1716 the roof was replaced with slate due to water damage. The current appearance is the result of restoration work in 1912. Under the arch is a wooden cross, a copy of the original placed in 1449 as a votive offering against flooding from the Buthier River.
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One of the most characteristic monuments of Aosta that tells of its Roman origins: built in 25 BC. by Aulo Terenzio Varrone Murena, not far from the eastern entrance of the walls.
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Very nice and welcoming, easily reachable on foot
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About 3 hours to reach the refuge, where next to it is the Oratorio di Cuney sanctuary, the highest Marian sanctuary (dedicated to the Heavenly Mother) in Europe. There are several routes to reach it, the more adventurous can try the Passet path, exposed and equipped with chains, otherwise there is the alternative of the classic path
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Oyace?
Oyace is nestled in the Valpelline Valley, offering wide woods, pastures, and the scenic Buthier River. You can visit the fascinating Betenda Ravine, carved into a rocky wall, or take a recommended summer walk in the Verdona Valley leading to a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows. The impressive Place Moulin Dam, one of Europe's highest, creates a large reservoir and offers panoramic views.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks in Oyace?
Yes, Oyace has several historical points of interest. The unique octagonal Tornalla Tower, dating back to 1197, overlooks the village. The historic Ponte dell'Oyace, a stone bridge with elegant arches, spans the Buthier river. Within the village, you can also find the Parish Church of Saint Michael, built in 1788, featuring interesting 20th-century panel paintings. Further afield, the ancient Roman Arch of Augustus in Aosta is a significant historical monument.
What are some family-friendly activities around Oyace?
For families, the area offers several enjoyable options. The Place Moulin Dam provides an easy walk with beautiful views suitable for all ages. Rifugio Magià is a family-friendly hut and restaurant at 2,007 meters, known for its good food and surrounding trails that are technically easy and flat. The Arch of Augustus is also considered family-friendly and is wheelchair accessible.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Oyace?
Oyace is a great base for hiking. You can find trails ranging from easy to challenging. For instance, the trails around Rifugio Magià are technically easy and flat. More challenging routes include the ascent to Cuney Refuge and Oratory at 2,652 meters, offering stunning views of Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso. The region is also crossed by the renowned Alta Via 1, a long-distance hiking trail.
Are there any mountain refuges or huts to visit?
Yes, there are notable mountain refuges. The Cuney Refuge and Oratory is the highest refuge of the Alte Vie of the Aosta Valley, located at 2,652 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Another option is Rifugio Magià, a welcoming hut and restaurant at 2,007 meters, praised for its food and value.
What are the best times to visit Oyace?
The summer months are ideal for exploring Oyace's natural beauty, with recommended walks in the Verdona Valley and the chance to see the Betenda Ravine illuminated by sunlight around 3 PM. August is a particularly vibrant time, featuring the Fontina Festival, dedicated to the local Fontina PDO cheese, and the traditional Feast of Our Lady of the Snows in Verdona on August 5th.
What outdoor sports and activities are popular around Oyace?
Beyond hiking, Oyace offers opportunities for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous MTB trails, including routes like the 'Place Moulin Dam – Prarayer Hut loop'. There are also options for gravel biking and running trails, such as the 'Lake Lexert loop' or 'Col de Brison loop'.
What cultural events or festivals take place in Oyace?
Oyace celebrates its local culture and gastronomy, particularly in August. The village hosts the annual Fontina Festival, where visitors can taste the renowned Fontina PDO cheese and other traditional specialties. Additionally, on August 5th, there is the traditional Feast of Our Lady of the Snows in Verdona, which includes a procession and a lunch prepared by local volunteers.
Can I find panoramic viewpoints in the area?
Absolutely. The Place Moulin Dam offers beautiful panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. For more elevated vistas, the Cuney Refuge and Oratory provides stunning views of Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso, and Rutor. The Cima Longhede summit and Bisaone Cross also offer an exceptional panorama over much of the Aosta Valley, including many of its highest peaks.
What makes Oyace unique compared to other places in the Aosta Valley?
Oyace stands out for its peaceful ambiance and traditional alpine architecture, featuring charming stone houses and wooden roofs. It offers a blend of historical landmarks like the unique Tornalla Tower and stunning natural landscapes within the Valpelline Valley. Its strong connection to local traditions, such as the production of Fontina PDO cheese and its annual festivals, provides an authentic cultural experience.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Oyace?
Yes, for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk, the trails surrounding Rifugio Magià are an excellent choice. They are described as technically easy and flat, making them accessible for most. The walk around the Place Moulin Dam is also considered easy and suitable for the whole family, offering great views without significant difficulty.
What is the significance of the Buthier River in Oyace?
The Buthier River is central to Oyace's landscape and history. It traverses the village territory, contributing to its scenic beauty. The historic Ponte dell'Oyace spans this river, symbolizing ancient routes. The river is also dammed by the impressive Place Moulin Dam, forming a large reservoir that is a major attraction and source of hydroelectric power.
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