Lake Djouan from Valnontey

From the village of Valnontey (1666 m), one of the southern gateways to Gran Paradiso National Park, the trail climbs steadily across the Lauson pastures to the still waters of Lake Djouan at 2515 m. It is one of the most beloved routes in the Cogne valley because it combines easy access with an exceptionally high chance of wildlife encounters: in the early morning ibex — the symbol of the Park, saved here from extinction in the early twentieth century — graze undisturbed along the path, often just metres from hikers, while marmots, chamois and eagles complete the scene. Beyond the larch woods the route opens onto broad high-altitude pastures dominated by the bulk of Gran Paradiso (4061 m) and the Becca di Moncorvé; the lake, cradled in a glacial cirque, mirrors the peaks on clear mornings. The E grade hides no technical difficulty, only a sustained 850 m of ascent to be tackled at a steady pace. The route is very busy in August: set off before 8 a.m. for silence and wildlife, and carry water, as reliable sources thin out above Valnontey.

Along the route: from Valnontey (1666 m), the path passes Alpe Lauson (2100 m) — Pastures with frequent ibex sightings, to Lago Djouan (2515 m). Along the way you reach the Vittorio Sella refuge, a useful base. The skyline is dominated by Gran Paradiso (4061 m), Becca di Moncorvé (3384 m).