Running with the giants – Alta Via 1 in the Aosta Valley
Running Collection by Bryan | Exploro Ergo Sum
7 routes
41:04 h
193 km
14,370 m
The route runs from Donnas in the east to Courmayeur in the west. Although it’s normally divided into 17 stages, I’ve divided it into seven in this Collection because the Alta Via is perfect for trail running – meaning you can experience both hiking and running in the mountains.
You'll need a good level of fitness to tackle this route. Some stages are long and demanding, and you'll be running on alpine terrain at altitudes constantly in excess of 2,000 metres (6,500 ft). A good pair of trail running shoes is essential given the technical sections. I strongly recommend wearing warm, waterproof layers to cope with the frequent changes in mountain weather.
This experience allows you to discover environments of great natural wealth. It immerses you in the strong identity of the Walser people, a community preserving age-old traditions handed down from generation to generation. Magnificent hamlets reveal Alpine architecture that has remained intact over time.
The Alta Via features steep ascents to scenic high mountain passes, such as the Col de Malatrà, and descents into beautiful valleys, such as the Valtournenche. However, the highlight of the entire route is the breathtaking view of the 'Giants', the mountains exceeding 4,000 metres (13,000 ft) that surround the valley.
The best time to undertake this route is from the end of June to mid-September when the huts are open and the days are longer. Since each stage begins and ends in a refuge or villages on the valley floor, it’s essential to book all overnight stays well in advance. During each day you’ll encounter at least one refuge for a pitstop or lunch. If you prefer to travel more independently, you can also camp. Please note that wild camping is prohibited below an altitude of 2,500 metres (8,000 ft).
To reach Donnas, you can take a train from Turin or Milan. To return from Courmayeur, you can take a bus to Aosta and from there a direct train to Turin. Because many stages end in the valley, you can choose to run only part of the route and then return to your starting point using local transport.
Lace-up your shoes and get ready to run the mountain. Enjoy your walk!
If you want to explore the Alta Via 1 by walking, find out more here: komoot.com/collection/1650569.
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Activities
- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
05:25
20.1km
16:12/km
2,480m
590m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Here is the beginning of an extraordinary adventure. the Alta Via 1 of the Aosta Valley starts from Donnas, a small town located a few kilometers from the border with Piedmont and the famous Bard fort. Donnas is renowned for its wines.
You leave the center and begin your ascent up the hill, where long
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
07:54
38.3km
12:23/km
2,420m
3,260m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.The second day of the Alta Via 1 is the most challenging stage, both due to the positive difference in altitude and length. You'll face several climbs, but the view and experience at the top will energize you every time.
You leave the refuge and briefly enter Piedmont until you reach the Sella hill. Then
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
06:05
26.9km
13:35/km
2,530m
1,370m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.The third leg of your adventure will take you to a single hill at 2,777 meters above sea level before meandering through a beautiful valley.
Leaving Gressoney-Saint-Jean behind, you cross the Lys stream and head towards Alpenzu Grande, known as "Gròsso Albezò" in Tischt dialect. Among the stone and wooden
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
07:10
29.8km
14:27/km
2,250m
2,150m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.Here you are at the intermediate stage of your Alta Via.
The day begins by leaving the Grand Tournalin refuge behind and taking the path that leads to Col de Nannaz at 2,772 meters above sea level. With a short jump you reach the Col des Fontaines, a truly enchanting pass. Descend through the pastures
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
06:50
32.4km
12:39/km
2,560m
2,790m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.The fifth stage of this adventure is challenging as it involves climbing several iconic hills, but the magnificent views of the valley make the whole experience rewarding.
Starting from the Cuney refuge, head towards Col de Chaleby. Although the terrain is almost flat, it becomes rockier as it runs alongside
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
04:29
25.1km
10:44/km
1,550m
1,430m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.The penultimate day of your adventure is significantly smoother than previous stops. Today, the terrain is almost completely flat, except for two climbs, which allows you to run for most of the day.
From the Champillon refuge the route heads towards the Col de Champillon. To wake up well, the day begins
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- Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
03:09
19.9km
9:31/km
590m
1,920m
ExpertExpert run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.Here you are at the last stage of the Alta Via dei Giganti. This last day is the easiest and allows you to conclude your adventure with peace of mind and plenty of time to return home.
The day begins immediately with a very iconic place: the Col de Malatrà. Warm up your legs and start this first climb
Translated by Google •
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Collection Stats
- Activities7
- Distance193 km
- Duration41:04 h
- Elevation14,370 m
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