Exciting Cycling Tour from Saint-Vincent to Brusson

An exciting cycling tour through landscapes and culture in Aosta Valley.

Exciting Cycling Tour from Saint-Vincent to Brusson

Where does the cycling itinerary of Saint-Vincent start?

The itinerary starts from the heart of Saint-Vincent, one of the most famous locations in the Aosta Valley. Nestled in a sheltered basin and with a mild climate, the town is known for its thermal baths, elegant streets, and the famous Casino de la Vallée, opened in 1947. An ideal starting point for cyclists, Saint-Vincent offers services, accommodations, and a perfect setting to begin a day dedicated to sport and discovery.

How do you climb from Saint-Vincent to Col de Joux?

From the center of Saint-Vincent, you take the road that climbs towards Col de Joux, considered one of the most scenic in the entire region. The ascent develops for about 14 kilometers with a height difference of 900 meters and average slopes between 6% and 8%. The road is well-paved and runs alongside larch and fir forests, alternating with scenic viewpoints that open onto the central valley. On clear days, the view stretches from Mont Avic to Monte Rosa, offering breathtaking glimpses.

What can you admire during the ascent to Col de Joux?

Along the route, you encounter small mountain villages and flowering clearings, ideal for a short stop. Every curve offers a different perspective of the Aosta Valley: to the west, you can glimpse the peaks of Gran Paradiso, while to the east, you can see the hills surrounding Verrès and Montjovet. In the summer months, the scent of the woods and the fresh air make the ride particularly enjoyable.

What can you find once you reach Col de Joux?

Col de Joux, situated at an altitude of 1,640 meters, is a pass nestled between Saint-Vincent and Brusson. Here, the panorama opens onto Val d'Ayas and the surrounding mountains. The area is perfect for a break: there are benches, meadows, and a small bar where you can refresh yourself. Near the pass also runs the Ru Courtod, an ancient irrigation canal built in the 14th century to bring water from the Ventina glacier to the fields of Val d'Ayas.

What is the descent like from Col de Joux to Brusson?

From Col de Joux begins a scenic descent of about 8 kilometers towards Brusson, in the heart of Val d'Ayas. The road passes through shady woods and offers enchanting views of the surrounding mountains. The curves are wide and regular, perfect for those who love smooth descents. Brusson suddenly appears among the meadows and stone houses, giving a picturesque view of the lake and mountains.

What does Brusson offer to cyclists?

Brusson is a typical alpine village at an altitude of 1,338 meters, known for its lake, cross-country ski trails, and hiking paths. It is the ideal place for a break or lunch in one of the local restaurants. The center is compact and welcoming, with wooden and stone houses that preserve the traditional architecture of Val d'Ayas.

How does the route continue after Brusson?

From the village, you continue gently downhill along regional road 45, following the course of the Evançon stream. The slope is minimal and the ride is relaxing, ideal for enjoying the scenery. You pass through the characteristic towns of Challand-Saint-Anselme and Challand-Saint-Victor, two villages that retain authentic charm and enchanting views.

What can you see in the towns of Challand-Saint-Anselme and Challand-Saint-Victor?

In Challand-Saint-Anselme, the town is divided into small fractions connected by ancient paths. You can admire rural chapels, mills, and old stone houses. Challand-Saint-Victor, further down, is known for its Romanesque bridge and the tranquility of the village. Here, the panorama opens onto the valley floor, where you can already see the castle of Verrès.

What characterizes Verrès and why is it worth a stop?

Verrès is one of the most important locations in the lower Aosta Valley, dominated by the imposing 14th-century castle. Built on the rock, the castle of Verrès is a rare example of medieval military architecture in the Aosta Valley. From the town center, you can also deviate to visit the natural reserve of Mont Avic Park, the only regional park in the Aosta Valley, located in the nearby municipality of Champdepraz.

How do you return to Saint-Vincent from Verrès?

From Verrès, you follow the state road 26 towards Montjovet. This section is gentler and allows you to relax after the climbs faced in the first part of the route. Montjovet is an ancient village located along the Roman road of the Gallie, strategically positioned for controlling the passage to the central valley.

What can you visit in Montjovet?

In Montjovet, the Saint-Germain castle, dating back to the 11th century, is worth a stop. From the original construction, an imposing tower and sections of the surrounding walls remain. From the castle, you enjoy a panoramic view of the valley floor and the surrounding vineyards. Montjovet is also known for its terraced vineyards and the paths that connect the ancient hamlets.

What panoramas can you encounter along the Saint-Vincent - Col de Joux - Brusson - Verrès - Montjovet loop?

The route offers a variety of extraordinary panoramas: from the woods of Col de Joux to the snow-capped peaks of Val d'Ayas, from medieval castles to valleys crossed by the Evançon stream. Each stretch provides different perspectives on the Aosta Valley, making this ride a continuous succession of visual emotions.

The loop measures about 60 kilometers, with a total elevation gain of 1,200 meters. It is recommended for trained cyclists or those with an e-bike. The roads are in excellent condition and traffic is moderate, especially in the mountainous sections. It is an ideal route for those who want to combine sport, culture, and nature in a single experience.

When is the best time to undertake this cycling tour?

The recommended period is from May to October. In spring and autumn, the colors of the woods and vineyards make the landscape even more picturesque, while in summer, the fresh air at higher altitudes ensures an ideal climate for cycling. Departing in the morning from Saint-Vincent, you can complete the loop in a day, fully enjoying the beauty of the Aosta Valley.

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