Complete guide to the Palasinaz Lakes in Val d'Ayas

Where are the Palasinaz Lakes located in Val d'Ayas?

The Palasinaz Lakes are located above the village of Brusson, in Val d'Ayas, Aosta Valley. This is a group of five alpine lakes of glacial origin, each with a different shape and color. The area is very scenic and allows you to see the village of Brusson and the surrounding pastures from above.

How to reach the Palasinaz Lakes by car?

From the center of Brusson, you take numerous hairpin bends up to Estoul, at about 1800 meters above sea level. At the San Grato junction, you turn left, keeping to the main road. After passing the ski lift, which remains on the right, you continue for about 500 meters. Here you will find a first parking lot on the right and, after another 100 meters, a larger second parking lot on the left. The hike starts right from this point, marked by a sign with various hiking routes.

Is it possible to reach Estoul and the Palasinaz Lakes by public transport?

Public transport connections are not direct. From Aosta, you can reach Brusson by line buses, but there are not frequent connections from Brusson to Estoul. For this reason, the car remains the most convenient solution. During the high season, parking can fill up quickly, so it is advisable to arrive early in the morning.

Where does the trail to the Palasinaz Lakes start?

The trail starts from the Estoul parking lot. At the beginning, you follow a wide dirt road that immediately enters a coniferous forest, bordering the ski slopes of Estoul. Once out of the forest, you reach a fork: to the right, you go towards Punta Valera, while to the left, you continue towards the lakes.

What views can you encounter along the hike to the Palasinaz Lakes?

The route alternates between coniferous forests, alpine pastures, and meadows where cows graze. On sunny days, you can enjoy a wide view of the village of Brusson and the surrounding valleys. Along the way, you encounter streams and small brooks that make the landscape even more enchanting.

Is it possible to visit Lake Literan as well?

Yes, along the route, there is a fork that leads to Lake Literan. It is not clearly marked, but by continuing to the right, you can reach it. Even if you choose not to deviate, Lake Literan remains visible higher up.

What is the first lake encountered along the route?

After passing the upper Palasinaz pastures, you reach Lake della Battaglia, at 2487 meters above sea level. It is a picturesque lake, with clear waters and a spectacular alpine setting. From here, you can decide whether to continue to other lakes or return.

Can you continue beyond Lake della Battaglia?

From Lake della Battaglia, you can reach Lake Couloir by crossing a characteristic stone bridge. A little further on, you encounter Lake Verde, and if you wish, you can continue to Lake Lungo or head towards Corno Bussola.

How to reach Corno Bussola from the Palasinaz Lakes?

Corno Bussola is reached by following trail 3D, which takes about an hour. This is a more challenging ridge section, with some passages equipped with fixed ropes and metal steps. It is a route suitable for trained hikers.

What animals can you encounter along the Palasinaz Lakes trail?

Val d'Ayas is rich in alpine fauna. Along the ridge leading to Corno Bussola, it is not uncommon to encounter ibex. In some stretches, you can see them very closely as they graze peacefully among the meadows and rocks.

What other lakes do you encounter on the way back from the hike?

During the descent, you pass by Lake Lungo, characterized by its elongated shape, and Lake Pocia. Both are located in a very scenic and photogenic area.

Are there loop variants for the Palasinaz Lakes?

Yes, it is possible to return by passing through Alpe Palasinaz Inferiore. This slightly lengthens the route but allows you to create a loop and vary the itinerary compared to the outward journey.