The best walks and hikes around La Thuile

Embark on a moderate hike along the Col de la Croix historic trail, a 6.9-mile (11.0 km) route that winds through the stunning alpine landscapes of the Aosta Valley. This journey involves an elevation gain of 1368 feet (417 metres) and typically takes about 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete. You'll traverse a varied terrain of alpine paths and natural ground, leading you steadily upwards. As you hike, you'll be treated to captivating views, including glimpses of the emerald Lago d'Arpy sparkling in the valley below. The experience combines the tranquility of mountain scenery with a tangible sense of the past.

To begin your adventure, head to Col Saint Charles, located on the road connecting Morgex to La Thuile. You can find parking near Hotel Genzianella, which is a convenient starting point for the route. The trail is well-marked with yellow CAI symbols, ensuring clear navigation throughout your hike. Always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding weather and potential seasonal access changes in this alpine region.

This route is more than just a scenic walk; it's a journey through Alpine military history. As you ascend towards Col de la Croix, you'll encounter interesting ruins and a long defensive wall that once protected against French invasions centuries ago. These fortifications and trenches were built during the 17th-18th centuries and were even used again during the Second World War. The trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with the historical significance of the Aosta Valley.

Embark on the Alta Via 2 of Aosta Valley: Stage 3, a difficult 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hike that challenges you with a significant 3532-foot (1077 metres) elevation gain. This demanding route typically takes around 7 hours and 52 minutes to complete, immersing you in the pristine nature of the Aosta Valley. You will traverse diverse landscapes, from larch forests and expansive alpine meadows to rugged rocky outcrops and glacial cirques, offering a true high-alpine experience.

Planning your visit requires preparation, as this is a demanding route best suited for trekkers with alpine experience. Be ready for considerable cumulative elevation gain and long climbs, often involving deep valley descents followed by ascents to the next pass. While the trail avoids technical climbing, strong physical fitness is essential to comfortably manage the daily challenges of this trek.

This stage of the Alta Via 2 takes you deep into Gran Paradiso National Park, where you can look for alpine flora and fauna such as chamois and golden eagles. As you near Lillaz towards the end of the stage, you might catch your first distant view of Mont Blanc, a notable landmark. The route is part of a longer, challenging trek, making this stage a key segment for those exploring the Aosta Valley's high-alpine environment.

Embark on a difficult hike to the Cascate del Rutor, Italy's largest waterfalls, covering 9.5 miles (15.3 km) with a significant 2418 feet (737 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route typically takes around 5 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will wind through a shady forest on a stone path, crossing wooden platforms and small bridges, before reaching the powerful cascades with their impressive blue and green pools.

To plan your visit, you can find parking available at the charming hamlet of La Joux, where the trail begins. The path is clearly marked with red and white CAI signs, guiding you towards Rifugio Deffeyes. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, as sections of the trail are rocky and can be wet, especially near the waterfalls.

This trail uniquely combines parts of the Sentiero Italia and Alta Via 2, leading you to waterfalls fed by the Rutor glacier. The cascades feature three major steps, plunging a total height of 700 metres, creating one of the most powerful natural displays in the Alps. From viewpoints along the way, you can admire the wild nature and the expansive views of the La Thuile valley.