Bionaz (Plan Praz) - Place Moulin

The upper Valpelline is one of the wildest and least-visited lateral valleys of the Aosta Valley, and this long itinerary from Bionaz to Place Moulin runs through its heart along the banks of the Buthier torrent. The 11 km with 698 m of ascent follow a mostly mid-altitude route without technical difficulties, ideal for those seeking a long, immersive walk rather than a steep climb. Bionaz (1495 m) is the last inhabited centre of the valley; from here the path climbs through still-active summer farms, stone barns and open pastures bright with alpine flowers in summer. The destination, Place Moulin (2011 m), is marked by the large reservoir created by the Place Moulin Dam, one of the most significant hydroelectric works in the region. The landscape is framed by the peaks of the Monte Vélan massif.