Explore Vallone delle Laures and Bivacco Ménabréaz

Where is Vallone delle Laures located?

Vallone delle Laures is located above Aosta, in the northeastern part of the main valley. It is a side valley that rises steeply and opens up to three glacial lakes at altitudes above 2,500 meters, surrounded by rocks, pastures, and spectacular views of the Gran Paradiso massif.

How to get to Vallone delle Laures by car?

To reach the start of the trail, you need to drive up to Porossan and then continue towards the hamlet of Grand Brissogne. The road is paved but narrow, with curves winding through vineyards and woods. The starting point of the hike is the location La Cretaz (altitude 1,373 m), where there is a small dirt parking lot. On summer weekends it can fill up quickly: in that case, you can leave the car a few hundred meters lower down the road, being careful not to block the passage.

Can you get there by public transport?

Access by public transport is not easy. Buses from Aosta go to Brissogne, but they do not reach La Cretaz. This means that the hike is feasible almost only with a private car or taxi.

How long does it take to hike to the Laures lakes?

From the La Cretaz parking lot to the first lake, it takes on average 3 and a half hours of walking, following trail 8. The elevation gain is challenging, about 1,200 meters, but the path is always well marked. To reach Bivacco Ménabréaz, which is located above the lakes, you need to calculate at least another half hour. In total, the round trip hike can take the whole day.

What can you encounter along the Vallone delle Laures trail?

The route initially develops among larch forests and fast-flowing streams. After about an hour, you enter more open spaces, among alpine pastures and flowering meadows. As you ascend, the view expands over Aosta and the central valley. When the Laures lakes finally appear, the turquoise color of the water contrasts with the rocky terrain and immediately gives a sense of achievement.

What does Bivacco Ménabréaz offer?

Bivacco Ménabréaz is a small red metal structure, typical of the Aosta Valley bivouacs, located at an altitude of 2,542 meters. Inside there are bunks, blankets, and a table. It is designed as an emergency shelter or for those who want to spend a night at high altitude in total solitude. Reaching it after hours of walking means having a safe resting point and a perfect place for a break, with a view of the lakes below.

Is the hike to the Laures lakes scenic?

Yes, the scenery is one of the most fascinating aspects. From the lakes, you can admire part of the Gran Paradiso massif, and on clear days, the view extends to Monte Rosa. The contrast between the colors of the water, dark rocks, and green meadows makes the landscape extremely photogenic.

What is the best time to visit Vallone delle Laures?

The ideal period is from late June to September. Before that, access is often hindered by snow, especially in the higher areas near the bivouac. In August, there may be more people, while in June and September, you find greater tranquility, with nature changing colors.

Is special equipment necessary?

No technical mountaineering gear is required, but the hike requires good hiking shoes, water, and clothing suitable for sudden weather changes. A trekking pole can help on the long ascent.

Where to sleep near Vallone delle Laures?

If you do not want to spend the night at the bivouac, you can choose to stay in Aosta or in the small villages of Brissogne. This way, you have the convenience of setting off early in the morning without having to drive too far.

Is the hike to the Laures lakes suitable for those traveling with dogs?

Yes, along the trail there are streams and areas of water where dogs can cool off. The important thing is to keep them on a leash in sections with pastures, where there are cows or free-ranging animals.