The unmissable motorbike tour in Aosta Valley

Why choose the Pont-Saint-Martin - Col di Joux - Verrès mototour?

This itinerary is ideal for those who love uphill routes, perfect curves, and scenic roads that offer a pleasant and smooth ride. It is a route that combines excitement and beauty, crossing the lower part of the Aosta Valley and reaching panoramic heights among woods and valleys. Not by chance, this road has also been one of the stages of the famous Aosta Valley Rally, synonymous with adrenaline and breathtaking landscapes.

Where does the mototour start?

The journey begins in Pont-Saint-Martin, the first Aosta Valley municipality encountered coming from Piedmont. Famous for its Roman bridge from the 1st century BC, the town is the gateway to the Aosta Valley. From here, you take the state road that climbs the valley towards Verrès, alongside terraced vineyards and characteristic villages. Already in the first few kilometers, the road invites you to gently lean into wide curves and impeccable asphalt.

What do you encounter along the climb to Val d'Ayas?

From Verrès, the most exciting part of the route begins, with a road that climbs between hairpin bends and fast straights. This is the gateway to Val d'Ayas, one of the most beautiful and authentic valleys in the region. The ascent is smooth and panoramic, perfect for those who love to ride in the mountains with the right balance between adrenaline and comfort.

First stop: Challand-Saint-Victor

After a few kilometers, you reach Challand-Saint-Victor, a quiet village surrounded by woods and pastures. Here you can make a small detour to visit Lake Villa, a protected nature reserve that offers a serene and picturesque environment. An ideal place for a short stop and some photographs, with the reflection of the mountains mirrored in the calm waters of the lake.

Second stop: Challand-Saint-Anselme and the Graines Castle

Continuing north, you cross Challand-Saint-Anselme, another picturesque municipality of the valley. A little further on, to the right, you can see the Graines Castle, built in the 11th century on a rocky spur. Its intact walls and tower dominate the valley, giving a touch of history to the journey. A short detour allows you to reach the castle and enjoy a spectacular view of Val d'Ayas.

Third stop: Brusson, the heart of Val d'Ayas

Climbing a few more kilometers, the road leads to Brusson, located at 1,338 meters above sea level. This mountain village is one of the most loved destinations by motorcyclists and hikers for its panoramic position and the tranquility of the place. From here, you can visit the historic Chamousira gold mine, a testament to the valley's mining past, or take a break at the La Fromagerie Haut Val d'Ayas dairy, where you can taste local cheeses and typical Aosta Valley products.

How does the road continue from Brusson to Col di Joux?

From the center of Brusson, the road leads to Col di Joux, one of the most beautiful and scenic passes in the Aosta Valley. The route stretches for about 10 kilometers through larch and fir forests, with regular curves and moderate slopes. It is a road much loved by motorcyclists because it allows for smooth hairpin turns, with smooth asphalt and continuous views of the valley. As you climb, you enjoy an ever-widening view of the valley floor and the peaks of Monte Rosa.

Col di Joux: 1,640 meters of panorama and nature

Col di Joux connects Val d'Ayas with Saint-Vincent and represents an extraordinary panoramic point. At 1,640 meters altitude, a large square opens up surrounded by coniferous forests and clearings. In summer, the air is fresh and pleasant, and from the pass, several hiking trails start, such as the one leading to Sommarèse or Col Tzecore. For those traveling by motorcycle, Col di Joux is the perfect place for a panoramic stop and some memorable photos among curves and nature.

Scenic descent towards Saint-Vincent

From the pass, the descent towards Saint-Vincent begins, a road famous for its harmonious curves and breathtaking views of the central valley. In just a few minutes, you go from the 1,640 meters of the pass to the 575 meters of the town, crossing woods and open stretches that offer enchanting glimpses. The road is perfectly paved, with wide and safe curves, ideal for those who love smooth and controlled driving.

Saint-Vincent: the Riviera of the Alps

Saint-Vincent is a renowned location for its mild climate and the Casino de la Vallée, opened in 1947 and still one of the most well-known attractions in the Aosta Valley. It is often referred to as the "Riviera of the Alps" due to its sunny position and shelter from the winds. Here you can take a refreshing break: a pizza, an ice cream, or a walk through the elegant streets of the historic center are the best ways to end the day. And for those who love nightlife, a visit to the Casino is almost a must.

How to complete the loop back to Verrès?

After the stop in Saint-Vincent, the tour continues south along the state road that leads back to Verrès. The stretch is fast and smooth, bordering vineyards and crossing small towns that tell the daily life of the valley. Verrès is dominated by its imposing 14th-century castle, a severe and fascinating construction that rises on a rocky spur. From the town, you can choose whether to return to Pont-Saint-Martin or continue for another adventure along the roads of the Aosta Valley.