The best walks and hikes around Pollein

Also known as Lac d'en bas, this splendid mountain lake at 2,549 meters is the first and largest of the lakes encountered when ascending the valley. The reflection of the sun on its vast silvery surface, enclosed by a crown of rugged rock faces, offers a grandiose and wild spectacle. Walking along its grassy banks, a short distance from the Menabreaz bivouac, provides a deep sense of alpine isolation and represents the perfect reward for the long and demanding hike to get here and beyond.

Located at an altitude of 2,545 meters, this historic bivouac stands in a splendid and remote alpine basin right on the shores of the suggestive lake Les Laures. The presence of the characteristic wooden fountain, the outdoor tables, and the body of water surrounded by rugged rock faces makes this spot one of the most rewarding and exciting stops on the entire hike. A corner of authentic mountain solitude, perfect for recharging your energy and enjoying the close-up contrast between green meadows and severe peaks reflected in the lake.

From this point, a magnificent view opens up of Becca Salé, Monte Emilius, and Becca Nona, which stand side by side, from left to right. The toponymy, with its ancient roots, is also striking: becca in Aosta Valley dialect simply means summit, while Salé derives from the French salée (“salty”) or, according to local interpretations, from the light, arid color of the summit rocks. Monte Emilius likely recalls the gens Aemilia, a Roman family with possessions on the lower slopes of the mountain in Roman times. Finally, Becca Nona refers to the canonical ninth hour (around 3:00 PM): observed from Aosta, the summit traditionally indicates the position of the sun at that hour, serving as a veritable natural clock for the inhabitants of the valley floor.

Blessed Emeric of Quart was a 12th-century Aosta Valley nobleman who chose a life of renunciation and prayer, retreating as a hermit in the woods above the present-day village of Quart. According to tradition, he lived in extreme poverty in a cave or natural shelter on the very site where the Oratory dedicated to him now stands. He was known among the population for his austerity and for the help he offered to travelers and local farmers. After his death around 1140, his retreat became a place of popular devotion, giving rise to the small oratory that preserves his memory.

water point

Quart Castle is currently (January 2025) undergoing conservation work. The work should be completed by summer 2025.

Travelling along the Via Francigena from Aosta to Nus, just before Quart you come across this Castle built on a hill, an enchanting and solitary place.

The Oratory of Blessed Emerico is a small church dedicated to Saint Emeric, patron saint of young people and students. Dating back to the 12th century, the oratory has a simple but fascinating architecture, with frescoes decorating the interior, dating back to later periods. Situated in a panoramic position, it offers an enchanting view of the surrounding mountains and the Aosta Valley landscape.