Hiking to Valmianaz in Gran Paradiso National Park

Where is Valmianaz and how to reach it?

Valmianaz is a small hamlet located at 1729 meters above sea level, in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, in Aosta Valley. It is easily reachable from the Valnontey parking lot, just a few minutes' drive from the center of Cogne.

From the parking lot, follow the trail on the right orographic side of the valley. After a few minutes of walking, the view opens up to larch forests and clearings where you often encounter ibex, foxes, and chamois.

How long does the hike to Valmianaz take and how challenging is it?

The hike to Valmianaz is easy and suitable for everyone, even for those who simply want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Elevation gain: about 50 meters. Total duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes – 2 hours. Departure: Valnontey parking lot. The path is flat and well-marked, ideal for families, nature photographers, and lovers of quiet walks.

What can you see along the trail from Valnontey to Valmianaz?

As you enter the valley, you can feel the authentic silence of the wilderness of Gran Paradiso Park. Larch and fir forests alternate with small clearings where it is easy to spot wildlife grazing. The trail follows the course of the Valnontey stream, offering spectacular panoramic views and an absolute sense of peace.

What animals can you encounter in Valmianaz?

The area of Valnontey and Valmianaz is famous for its great variety of wildlife. During the walk, you may encounter: Foxes, often curious and accustomed to human presence (but it is strictly forbidden to feed them!); Ibex and chamois, visible especially between winter and spring; Woodpeckers of three different species: great spotted, green, and black; Tits, treecreepers, and crossbills, small birds that animate the forest with their songs; Golden eagle and bearded vulture, soaring above the south-facing rocky walls. With a bit of patience and binoculars, this walk becomes a true alpine birdwatching experience.

How do you cross the Leuttaz Bridge and what can you see from there?

The first important landmark along the route is the Leuttaz Bridge. From here, it is advisable to move to the left orographic side and continue alongside the cross-country ski trail (without stepping on it) until you reach Valmianaz. From the bridge, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Gran Paradiso glaciers, which dominate the horizon. On clear days, the contrast between the white of the glaciers and the green of the forests is extraordinarily beautiful.

What is the village of Valmianaz like and what does it offer visitors?

Valmianaz is a small alpine village immersed in the tranquility of the park. Its stone and wood houses tell the story of Aosta Valley's architectural tradition, while the surrounding meadows often host deer and marmots in the warmer months. Those who arrive here can relax, take photographs, and listen to the sounds of nature. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy picture, perfect for those who love snowshoeing.

Can you encounter a fox along the trail to Valmianaz?

Yes, the foxes of Valnontey are quite sociable and often approach the trails. However, it is essential never to feed them: this behavior alters the natural habits of the animals and can be harmful to their survival. Observing them from a distance, perhaps with a camera, is the best way to respect nature.

What birds can be observed during the hike to Valmianaz?

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find in this valley a true paradise: Great spotted woodpecker and green woodpecker, easy to recognize by their characteristic drumming; Black woodpecker, rarer but impressive; Crested tit and alpine treecreeper, often visible on tree trunks; Crossbills and goshawks, which frequent the denser forests; At altitude, the spectacle of the golden eagle and the bearded vulture, the majestic vulture of the Alps.

What can you do in Valnontey before or after the walk?

After the hike, it is pleasant to stop in the hamlet of Valnontey to visit: the organic farm La Ferme du Paradis, where you can buy cheese and fresh milk; the wetland of Praz Suppiaz, rich in biodiversity and perfect for nature photography; the villages of David and Vermianaz, with beautiful traditional houses and views of the glaciers. Valnontey also offers bars, restaurants, and accommodation facilities ideal for those wishing to spend a weekend in Gran Paradiso National Park.

What is the best time to visit Valmianaz and Valnontey?

The trail is passable all year round, but each season offers different sensations: In spring, nature awakens and you can observe ibex and marmots. In summer, the flowering meadows and streams make the environment colorful and relaxing. In autumn, the larches turn golden and the air becomes clear, perfect for photos. In winter, with snowshoes, you can enjoy the silence of the snowy woods and spot animals moving in the snow.

Why choose the hike to Valmianaz during a vacation in Cogne?

Because it is an easy, scenic, and nature-rich itinerary, suitable for everyone and perfect for discovering the wildlife of Gran Paradiso National Park. Just a couple of hours is enough to experience an authentic adventure among forests, streams, and breathtaking views of the Gran Paradiso massif.