VIA FRANCIGENA IN VALLE D'AOSTA

There are six stages of the Via Francigena in the Aosta Valley and on the border with Piedmont.

Stage 01 – From the Gran S. Bernardo to Echevennoz

After the inevitable visit to the Hospice museum and the adjacent kennel where the champions of the San Bernardo breed are bred, we walk towards the border. From here a panoramic mule track awaits us which gradually descends towards the valley. We cross the enchanting villages of Saint Rhemy en Bosses, Saint Leonard, Saint Oyen, Etroubles, and the stage ends in Echevennoz, where there is a hostel. The more trained can continue towards Gignod or Aosta. Refreshment points in all inhabited centres; frequent fountains.

Stage 02 – From Echevennoz to Aosta

This stage takes place largely along suggestive stretches of path that run alongside the "rus", ancient hydraulic engineering masterpieces: small artificial canals that convey water from the streams towards the cultivated fields. The flat stretches along the canals alternate with steep descents, demanding on the knees and joints. In the second part of the stage we cross splendid orchards before entering Aosta, a city full of attractions, especially from the Roman era. Refreshment points in Gignod and Variney, many fountains.

Stage 03 – From Aosta to Chatillon

The descent of Valle d'Aosta is a route that takes place almost entirely on the orographic left of the Dora. The term "descent" should not be understood in the literal sense: the need to avoid traffic forces a continuous ups and downs on the northern side of the valley, accumulating a difference in height which makes the stage rather demanding. The most important attractions are the vineyards and the castles of Quart (which we skirt), Nus, Cly, Fenis (which we see in the distance). Refreshment points in Nus and Chambave, fountains along the entire route.

Stage 04 – From Chatillon to Verrès

Leaving Chatillon we cover a rather demanding climb, before taking the by now usual path which runs alongside a rus up to Saint Vincent. From here we stay on the left side of the Vallée heading towards the beautiful castle of Saint Germain. We descend along a stretch of the ancient Gallie road, and once in the valley we can reach Verrès along a beautiful panoramic route, which climbs the side of the mountain and then descends towards Issogne, where we recommend a visit to the beautiful castle. Refreshment points in Saint Vincent and Montjovet, frequent fountains.

Stage 04 – Variation – The exit from Chatillon

This "unofficial" variant allows you to avoid the steep climb at the exit from Chatillon, even if it forces the pilgrim to walk on the roadway in a stretch that can be busy.

Stage 05 – From Verrès to Pont St. Martin

A stage full of cultural ideas: the splendid Parish church of San Martino in Arnad, perhaps the greatest "Francigena" attraction of the Valle d'Aosta itinerary; the crossing of the two ancient bridges of Echallod and Bard, a delightful village dominated by the fort which houses the Museum of the Alps; and above all the entrance to Donnas, along the Roman road of Gaul, before concluding the stage in front of the Roman bridge of Pont Saint Martin. Refreshment points in Hone, Bard, Donnas. Frequent fountains

Stage 06 – From Pont St. Martin to Ivrea

Entering Piedmont, the reliefs soften, the slopes and height differences of the route become less demanding. The stage alternates characteristic villages with pleasant stretches in nature. Noteworthy are the complex of San Lorenzo, the village of Montestrutto and the Castle of Montalto. Not to be missed, at the end of the day, is a visit to the historic center of Ivrea. Refreshment points in Carema, Settimo Vittone (off the route) Borgofranco, Montalto. Frequent fountains.

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