アオスタバレーでののおすすめグラベルライド

The vineyards of Aymavilles (Aosta Valley) grow on Alpine terraces, where viticulture is considered heroic due to the manual labor required. Native grape varieties such as Petit Rouge, Fumin, and Petite Arvine, as well as international varieties, are cultivated here. This produces local DOC wines such as Torrette and Fumin, appreciated for their quality and distinctive character. The wineries offer tastings and tours, combining wine culture with breathtaking Alpine views.

In this stretch, the Via Francigena follows the ancient Roman route of the Via delle Gallie, where the paving retains the ruts of millennia-old carts. Connecting Augusta Prætoria to the Alpine passes, this strategic road shaped the landscape with rest stops and villages, some of whose names still indicate the distance in miles from the city. Traveling it today means experiencing a direct connection between the spiritual journey of medieval pilgrims and the engineering of the Romans.

Saint-Germain Castle (or Montjovet Castle), of uncertain origins, marked the history of the Aosta Valley, passing from the Savoy to the Challant family, before finally returning to the Savoy in 1438. Used as a military garrison by Amadeus VIII, it was abandoned in 1661 when the garrison was transferred to the Bard Fort. Completing the site is the Church of Saint-Germain: a small Romanesque building that, through frescoes and architectural details, preserves the spiritual memory of the local community.

The hamlet of Le Bourg can be easily reached by bicycle, passing under the highway overpass. The village is worth a visit for its characteristic keeled-arch windows, frescoes, and ancient signs that tell the story of the town. Also not to be missed is the church of San Rocco, perched on a rocky outcrop and offering a panoramic view of the valley.

The Arlaz Waterfall can be reached either from the Col d'Arlaz or from the Orbeillaz car park, following path number 31 which runs alongside the Rû d’Arlaz, a 14th-century artificial canal that channels the water of the Evançon stream and carries it to the municipalities of Challand, Emarese and Montjovet.

From this point, you can enjoy a splendid view of Verrès Castle, an imposing 14th-century medieval fortress that dominates the valley and adds a fascinating historical touch to the surrounding landscape. Built by the Challant family for defensive and residential purposes, it is today one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the region.

This path runs along the Buthier stream and connects Porossan-Le Neyve to Roisan.

At this point, there's a covered rest area ideal for those pedaling these trails, complete with an e-bike charging station and a tire pump. From the rest area, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the valley floor, perfect for a relaxing break during your hike or bike ride.