Lo Pian - Lac de Panaz

Lo Pian (551 m), in the municipality of Charvensod right above Aosta, is the starting point of a long climb to the Lac de Panaz (1865 m), a sheet of water set among the pastures of the mountains dividing the central valley from the Cogne valley. The path (E) gains more than 1300 metres, passing in turn through the mixed woods of the valley floor, the spruce forests and finally the alpine pastures around the basin. It is a long, progressive route, better suited to those seeking altitude and quiet than a quick goal: the lake, of glacial origin, holds cold water even in high summer and mirrors the surrounding ridges. Summer is the recommended season; start early because of the distance and overall height gain.

Along the way — you move among woods, terraces and the relief of the Mont Avic Park. 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.