Valley of Lys adventures and unique traditions

What is the Valley of Lys in Aosta Valley?

The Valley of Lys is a side valley of Aosta Valley that opens at Pont-Saint-Martin and rises towards Monte Rosa. It is also known as the Valley of Gressoney, as it hosts the municipalities of Gressoney-Saint-Jean and Gressoney-La-Trinité. Its name comes from the Lys stream, which runs through it entirely.

Where is the Valley of Lys and how to reach it?

The Valley of Lys is located in the eastern part of Aosta Valley. The main access is from Pont-Saint-Martin, easily reachable by car from the A5 Turin-Aosta motorway. From there, the regional road follows the Lys stream up to Gressoney-La-Trinité. The valley is also served by local buses connecting Pont-Saint-Martin with the higher towns.

What are the main towns in the Valley of Lys?

The most important towns are: Issime, a village that still preserves the titsch language, of Walser origin. Gressoney-Saint-Jean, famous for Castel Savoia and the Gover pond. Gressoney-La-Trinité, a starting point for excursions and the Monterosa Ski area. In addition to these, along the valley there are small villages, churches, and traditional wooden and stone houses.

Why is the Valley of Lys also called the Valley of Gressoney?

The Valley of Lys is known as the Valley of Gressoney because the most famous localities are Gressoney-Saint-Jean and Gressoney-La-Trinité. These towns are linked to Walser culture, a Germanic people who settled here in the Middle Ages. Even today, the titsch language and Walser traditions are part of the valley's identity.

What to see in Gressoney-Saint-Jean?

In Gressoney-Saint-Jean, you can find the famous Castel Savoia, the summer residence of Queen Margherita of Savoy. The castle is open for visits and surrounded by an alpine botanical garden. In the town center, you can stroll among Walser houses, shops, and typical restaurants. Not far away is the Gover pond, an ideal place for a relaxing walk with a view of Monte Rosa.

What to do in Gressoney-La-Trinité?

Gressoney-La-Trinité is the starting point for lovers of mountaineering and skiing. From here, the Monterosa Ski lifts depart, connecting to Champoluc and Alagna Valsesia. In summer, it is an ideal base for excursions to alpine huts, including the Quintino Sella Refuge at over 3,500 meters. The town still retains an authentic atmosphere, with wooden houses and spectacular views.

What excursions can be done in the Valley of Lys?

The valley offers trails for all levels. For those looking for easy walks, there are paths around Gressoney-Saint-Jean and along the Lys stream. Experienced hikers can climb to the Quintino Sella Refuge or the Città di Mantova Refuge. Trekking enthusiasts can tackle sections of the Tour of Monte Rosa, which crosses multiple valleys and regions.

What are the Walser traditions of the Valley of Lys?

Walser culture is one of the main characteristics of the valley. The Walser houses, built of wood and stone, are unique examples of alpine architecture. Popular festivals still celebrate the Walser language and customs, with traditional costumes and songs. The Walser Museum in Gressoney-La-Trinité allows visitors to discover the history of this people and its influence on daily life.

What to eat in the Valley of Lys?

The local cuisine offers typical dishes from the Aosta Valley and Walser tradition. You can taste seupa à la vapelenentse, polenta concia, and alpine cheeses like Toma di Gressoney. Desserts include tegole valdostane and other artisanal specialties. Many restaurants offer dishes made with local products and wines from Aosta Valley.

What sports are practiced in the Valley of Lys in winter?

In winter, the valley is a destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Monterosa Ski area offers kilometers of slopes connected between Aosta Valley and Piedmont. There are also cross-country ski trails, particularly in the Gressoney-Saint-Jean plain. Winter mountaineering and freeride enthusiasts find spectacular routes with views of Monte Rosa.

What to do in the Valley of Lys in summer?

In summer, the valley becomes an ideal place for hiking, trekking, and walks. You can practice mountain biking, climbing, and sport fishing in the streams. Families find easy itineraries and green areas for outdoor activities. Nature is the protagonist, with woods, pastures, and panoramic views of the peaks of Monte Rosa.

What events are there in the Valley of Lys?

Throughout the year, festivals and fairs related to Walser tradition and local products take place. In Gressoney-Saint-Jean and Gressoney-La-Trinité, cultural events, markets, and historical reenactments are organized. In winter, there are ski competitions and sporting events. These events are opportunities to get to know the local community and its cultural identity.