Snowshoeing and Hiking in Valsavarenche

Where is the Royal Hunting House of Orvielle and how can it be reached?

The Royal Hunting House of Orvielle is located at an altitude of 2190 meters, in Valsavarenche, in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park. The hike starts from the Eaux Rousses hamlet, just above Degioz, near the Hotel "A’ l’Hostellerie du Paradis". About 50 meters before the hotel, a signpost indicates the beginning of the trail, which crosses meadows and enters a larch and cedar forest.

How long does the snowshoe hike take and what type of route is it?

The ascent to the Hunting House is panoramic but not too demanding, suitable even for those with a minimum of training. Arrival altitude: 2190 m Elevation gain: 520 m Ascent time: 2 hours – 2 hours and 30 minutes Departure: Eaux Rousses hamlet (Valsavarenche) The trail winds through woods and clearings, with gentle bends and spectacular views of the valley below.

What can be seen along the trail to Orvielle?

During the ascent, you cross larch and fir forests that in winter, bare and silent, allow light to filter through and offer unique views of the valley. Along the route, you encounter the ruins of the Rondzegou pasture, a testament to rural life of the past. Higher up, you can admire the pastures of Carré and Rujaz, ancient settlements that tell the story of high-altitude livestock farming. The trail crosses meadows and natural terraces, until entering the larch and cedar forest that leads to the Orvielle basin, where the historic hunting house of the Savoy family stands.

Why is the Royal Hunting House of Orvielle so important?

This ancient residence was one of the favorite retreats of Vittorio Emanuele II, who loved to spend his hunting trips there. Today, the building has been transformed into a park ranger's hut and a research facility for the scientific activities of the Park. The place still retains the charm of past times, with a dominant position over the valley and an absolute silence that underscores its wild beauty.

What animals can be encountered along the way to Orvielle?

Valsavarenche is one of the richest wildlife areas in the Gran Paradiso National Park. During the snowshoe hike, you can observe: Chamois grazing on sunny slopes; Red squirrels jumping among the branches of larches; Woodpeckers, tits, and crossbills, easily recognizable by their calls; On quiet days, even robins and martens moving through the underbrush. In winter, footprints in the snow often reveal the presence of these animals active even in the cold season.

How can the descent from Orvielle be made?

The descent can be done along the same route as the ascent or, for those who want to vary, descending towards the La Ruya pasture and then down to the Creton hamlet, where perfectly preserved stone houses can be admired. From Creton, it is possible to return on foot or by transport to Eaux Rousses.

What should not be missed in the surroundings of Eaux Rousses and Degioz?

After the snowshoe hike, it is worth dedicating some time to the cultural attractions of the valley: The Visitor Center of the Gran Paradiso National Park and the Ethnographic Museum of Degioz; The Maison de la Montagne library, dedicated to alpine culture; The village of Creton, a perfect example of Aosta Valley architecture; The ancient water sawmill of Maisonnasse, a testament to the valley's artisanal past.

What can be done after the snowshoe hike at the Royal Hunting House of Orvielle?

After the hike, you can enjoy a typical lunch in one of the valley's restaurants, trying local dishes such as polenta concia or bread and fontina soup. Alternatively, you can continue towards Pont Valsavarenche, the starting point for another beautiful hike: that from Pont to Pravieux.

Where is the trail from Pont to Pravieux and how does it unfold?

The trail from Pont to Pravieux starts in front of the Hotel Genzianella, at Pont Valsavarenche (1960 m). It is an easy and panoramic route, perfect for those who want to discover the valley without facing significant elevation changes. Arrival altitude: 1829 m Elevation gain: 140 m Total duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (round trip) The route follows the left orographic side of the valley, between flat sections and gentle descents, offering splendid views of the glacial torrents.

What can be observed along the trail from Pont to Pravieux?

Along the route, you can admire gorges sculpted by the force of water over the millennia. The protagonist of this environment is the water ouzel, a small bird capable of diving into icy torrents even in mid-winter to search for insects. Its nest hidden behind the waterfalls is a true wonder of nature! In winter, when snowfall is abundant, you can cross the natural snow bridges formed over the torrent, following the tracks left by wild animals.

What villages are encountered along the route?

Continuing, you reach the village of Pessey, almost uninhabited, where you can admire traditional wooden and stone houses and barns. After passing the village, a small bridge in the woods leads to the Pravieux pasture, a panoramic resting point with a small barn for summer grazing. This place is also the starting point for two famous routes: the Gordtzes du Terrè, spectacular glacial gorges now equipped for excursions with alpine guides; the trail to the Chabod Refuge, one of the most loved destinations in the Park.

How to return to Pont from Pravieux?

The return can be made along the same trail or, if snow conditions allow, crossing the natural snow bridge over the torrent to make a loop. Both routes offer exceptional views of the Gordtzes du Terrè and the waterfalls of the Cote Savatère torrent, two hidden gems of Valsavarenche.

What can be done after the walk at Pravieux?

After the hike, you can visit the village of Pessey, relax in the bars of Pont or take a photographic stop at the Gordtzes du Terrè. For those who want to extend the day, excursions with the Park Guides can be organized, perfect for discovering the wildlife and geological features of this spectacular valley.