Graines - Col de Garda

The trail starts at Graines (1420 m), watched over by one of the finest medieval castles in the Aosta Valley. The path climbs steadily through mixed forest and open alpine pastures, offering expanding views of the Val d'Ayas peaks. After gaining 880 metres over 6.6 km, the route reaches Col de Garda at 2268 m — a broad, quiet upland terrace with sweeping mountain panoramas toward the Monte Rosa massif and, on the far side, the Valle del Lys. A demanding but rewarding itinerary for fit hikers, best from June to October.

Along the way — you move in the Walser valley of Gressoney, at the foot of the Aosta-Valley side of Monte Rosa. The route crosses alpine pastures and larch woods, with flowering meadows in summer and broad views of the peaks opposite. It calls for a fit hiker’s pace and proper footwear.