Ferrère - Alpe Pra de Dieu - Bivacco Chentre Bionaz

The upper Valpelline is one of the wildest and least-known valleys in the Aosta region, a landscape of abandoned pastures, rushing streams and severe ridgelines culminating southward in the Matterhorn and the Grandes Murailles. From Ferrère at 1704 metres the trail climbs 992 metres in 5.5 kilometres to the Bivacco Chentre Bionaz at 2530 metres. The route crosses open alpine terrain with progressively wider views over the valley below and the glaciers along the Swiss border. The bivouac is a base for alpinists and hikers exploring this remote corner of the high Valpelline. E-rated but without technical demands; the path may hold snow outside the main summer season.

Along the way — you move in the wild valley dominated by the Dent d’Hérens and the Grandes Murailles, toward the Place Moulin reservoir. You reach high-altitude lakes, panoramic passes and scree frequented by marmots and ibex. It calls for a fit hiker’s pace and proper footwear.