- Difficulty level: challenging
- Nights out: 7
- Max People: 12
- Airport transfer: yes
- Luggage transfers: yes
- Food: all included
- Accommodation: hotel and mountain huts
Discover the hidden gem of the Alps on this unforgettable 6-day hiking adventure through Gran Paradiso National Park. Less crowded than the Dolomites or Mont Blanc, it allows for unique encounters with the wildlife that calls this region home. During your hike, you may spot ibex leaping across rocky cliffs, majestic eagles soaring above, chamois grazing on the slopes, and if you’re lucky, even elusive wolves roaming in the distance.
The first highlight of this tour is the spectacular panorama that unfolds at every turn. As we trek through the park, we’ll cross three high-altitude mountain passes, each offering awe-inspiring views over the surrounding peaks, valleys, and alpine lakes. The tour avoids the summit of the Gran Paradiso, which requires climbing skills and specialized equipment, but don’t let that fool you—this is still a physically demanding adventure. Prepare for long days on rugged mountain paths, including three mountain passes over 3,000 meters above sea level.
Our journey begins in the charming town of Aosta, where you’ll check into a local hotel and meet your expert guide for an evening briefing. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner together, setting the tone for the days ahead. The following morning, we’ll transfer to the Valgrisenche valley, where the adventure begins. Over the next six days, we’ll be hiking through some of the most iconic routes in the Alps, including part of the Haute Route de Glaciers and the famous Tor des Géants, renowned for its challenging trails.
Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in welcoming mountain refuges that offer both comfort and authentic alpine hospitality. The nights are filled with warmth and camaraderie, while the meals will introduce you to the rich flavors of Italian alpine cuisine, ensuring that you’re well-fueled for the next day’s adventures.
On the final day, after completing our circuit around the park, we’ll return to Aosta for a celebratory evening at the hotel, reflecting on the extraordinary journey we’ve shared. The next morning, we say our goodbyes, knowing that the memories of this magnificent adventure will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrival in Aosta!
Welcome to Aosta! The adventure begins as you arrive and check in at the cozy Hotel Perret (check-in starts at 4 pm).
Once you’re settled in, you’ve got some free time to unwind or take a leisurely stroll around the charming town of Aosta.
At 6:30 pm, we’ll meet up with your guide for a full briefing on the exciting days ahead. Afterward, we’ll all gather for a delicious dinner together, included in your trip. It’s the perfect start to an unforgettable adventure!
Day 2: Aosta – Valgrisenche – Col Cossuna – Rifugio Epee
Today we start with a scenic transfer from the hotel in Aosta to the lovely village of Valgrisenche, just a 50-minute drive away. Once we arrive, we begin our hike by descending along the road to pick up the right side of the valley. The trail then starts to climb gradually, following dirt roads and paths through beautiful larch forests. We’ll make our way to the picturesque village of Prariond, where we’ll stop to admire its charming little church. From there, the path gently descends before heading back uphill, passing the remains of a military fort. Our destination is the Bouc alp, and just a short way beyond, we’ll reach the welcoming Rifugio Epee. After a well-earned rest, those who are up for a bit more can continue up the valley to reach Col Cossuna, with its stunning views and the impressive “Sigaro” monolith watching over the valley. Once we’ve soaked in the sights, we’ll head back to the Rifugio the same way we came. Walking time: 5 hours Distance: 7 km Ascent: +750 meters Descent: -50 meters Optional hiking to Col Cossuna Time: 4 hours Distance: 6 km Ascent: +470 m Descent: -470 mDay 3: Rifugio Epee – Bivacco Ravelli – Rifugio Bezzi
After a hearty breakfast, we set off from Rifugio Epee and leave the dirt road behind. The trail takes us across a rocky moraine, with breathtaking views of the mountains on the opposite side of the valley. The path winds up and down, offering a variety of terrains, until we reach the ridge of Mont Forciaz.
Climbing the moraines of Mont Forciaz, we arrive at the Bivacco Ravelli – a small but strategic shelter used for those aiming to conquer the north face of Grand Rousse. After soaking in the mountain air, we retrace our steps back down the same trail, continuing across the rocky landscape. We then start our descent towards Rifugio Bezzi, where a warm welcome and great views await.
Walking time: 6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Ascent: +580
Descent: -650 meters
Optional hiking to Bivacco Ravelli
Time: 3 hours
Distance: 4 km
Ascent: +420 m
Descent: -420 m
Day 4: Rifugio Bezzi – Rifugio Benevolo
Today’s hike begins on the famous Haute Route des Glacières trail, with the first part leading us across a gently sloping path. But soon, the trail gets steeper, first on grassy terrain, then shifting to rocky paths. We’ll quickly gain altitude, reaching a ridge at 2800 meters, where we’ll be treated to magnificent views of the Glairetta Glacier and Grand Sassière in all their glory.
The trail continues with some ups and downs, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. The final stretch takes us up to the Basac Deree Pass, standing at 3081 meters, which we’ll reach after about three hours of steady hiking. From there, we begin our descent into the beautiful Val di Rhemes, passing by the serene Lago di Goletta before arriving at Rifugio Benevolo.
Walking time: 7 hours
Distance: 10.5 km
Ascent: +830 metres
Descent: -820 meters
Day 5: Rifugio Benevolo – Rifugio Savoia
Today, we enter the stunning Grand Paradiso National Park, a true haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for herds of ibex and the majestic flight of golden eagles and bearded vultures – the symbols of this beautiful valley. The trail will offer incredible views of the Granta Parei limestone face and the Lavassey Glacier, with its crystal-clear lake.
We begin on a grassy path, which soon turns to a moraine landscape, as we make our way up to Col Basei at 3176 meters. From the pass, we’re treated to a long, scenic descent through alpine meadows, passing by numerous sparkling lakes, before reaching the vast Nivolet plateau. The final stretch brings us to Rifugio Savoia, where we can relax and enjoy the views after a fulfilling day of hiking.
Walking time: 8 hours:
Distance: 10 km
Ascent: +1050 meters
Descent: -800 meters
Day 6: Rifugio Savoia – Colle Leynir – Chenevey
Today we leave the comfort of Rifugio Savoia and begin our journey across alpine meadows, passing by several picturesque lakes that reflect the clear mountain skies. After about an hour, the trail steepens, and the terrain becomes rocky as we make our way up to Colle Leynir. From this high point, we’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Grand Paradiso massif and the surrounding mountains — truly a sight to behold.
Leaving the lunar-like landscape of the pass behind, we embark on a long descent toward the charming village of Chenevey. Here, instead of a mountain hut, we’ll be welcomed into a cozy, family-run hotel, offering a warm and personal touch after a day of exploration.
Walking time: 10 hours
Distance: 17 km
Ascent: +590 meters
Descent: -1430 meters
Day 7: Chenevey – Colle Fenetre – Valgrisenche
Our final day of hiking starts with a steep ascent from Chenevey as we head towards the challenging Col Fenetre, a famous passage in the ultra-trail Tor des Géants. The climb is demanding, but the views along the way make it worth every step. After reaching the pass, we’ll descend through a rugged landscape, skirting the slopes of Rabuigne and Grand Rousse, and recognizing familiar sights from the first day of our adventure.
As we continue, we’ll pass by the beautiful Lago di Bouregard and eventually make our way back to Valgrisenche, bringing our journey full circle.
A rewarding end to our journey, with challenging climbs, stunning views, and a sense of accomplishment as we return to where it all began!
Walking time: 8 hours
Distance: 14 km
Ascent: +1170 meters
Descent: -1200 meters