4-Day Mont Avic Trek: Glacial Lakes & Refuges | Aosta Valley
Explore Mont Avic on a 4-day guided trek through wild valleys, pristine glacial lakes, and pine forests in the Aosta Valley. Includes refuges & bivouac.
Tour Details
- Location: italy-aostavalley-parconaturalemontavic
- Duration: 4 days
- Difficulty: challenging
- Price: EUR 405 per person
- Guide: Héloïse Blanchard
- Group Size: Up to 10
- Elevation Gain: 2345m
- Distance: 34km
- Terrain: Forest paths, Alpine meadows, Mountain passes, Rocky trails, Singletrack
- Meeting Point: JJC4+GRQ, 11020 Chardonney, Aosta Valley, Italy
Description
Escape into the wild heart of the Aosta Valley on this 4-day guided trek through the Mont Avic Regional Park. Spanning 5,700 hectares of untouched alpine nature between the Champdepraz and Champorcher valleys, this area features Europe’s largest mountain pine forest, a constellation of pristine glacial lakes, and sweeping high-pass panoramas. Guided by a certified International Mountain Leader (AMM), you’ll explore remote, tranquil valleys, stay in welcoming mountain huts, and experience a unique night in an authentic alpine bivouac. Highlights: -Glacial Lakes & Peat Bogs: Discover crystal-clear lakes (Lac Noir, Lac Cornu, Grand Lac) and the legendary Lake Miserin with its historic Notre-Dame des Neiges sanctuary. -Alpine Wildlife Sanctuary: Keep your eyes peeled for ibex, chamois, marmots, golden eagles, and black grouse. -Authentic Mountain Hospitality: Experience local Aosta Valley hospitality with stays in cozy refuges and a peaceful, self-sufficient night in a traditional chalet.
Tour Highlights
- Stunning sunrise views from mountain peaks
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Local mountain cuisine experience
- Expert guide with local knowledge
- Photography opportunities
- Stunning Glacial Lakes & Peat Bogs
- Unique Landscape & Geology
Itinerary
- Champorcher → Barbustel Refuge -
We meet in the early afternoon at the Chardonney public carpark in Champorcher. After a short carpool to the trailhead, our adventure begins with a gentle climb through quiet larch woods and high alpine pastures. We cross the Col de la Croix, passing its serene lake, and descend toward the Barbustel Refuge set amid a glacier-carved landscape. Enjoy sweeping views of the iconic Mont Rose massif right from the refuge terrace.
- Barbustel Refuge → Borroz Bivouac -
Our trail winds deeper up the valley, showcasing a breathtaking necklace of mountain tarns including Lac Noir, Lac Cornu, and Grand Lac. We cross the high passes of Col Medzove and Col Etzely before descending into the pristine, wild Val Clavalité. Here sits the Borroz Bivouac—a traditional stone and timber mountain shelter offering an authentic, self-sufficient evening in the mountains. Enjoy an improvised group dinner featuring delicious local products!
- Borroz Bivouac → Lake Miserin -
Leaving the Val Clavalité behind, we hike through a striking mineral landscape up to Col Fénis (2,600 m). From here, we descend toward Lake Miserin, one of the most magnificent glacial lakes in the Aosta Valley. Perched at 2,580 metres, its shimmering waters sit right beside the historic Notre-Dame des Neiges Sanctuary along the famous Alta Via 2.
- Lake Miserin → Champorcher -
On our final day, we follow the Alta Via 2 downward through high alpine pastures. Passing the Dondena Refuge, the trail winds into lush forest and follows the rushing mountain stream back to the Champorcher valley floor. We arrive at the parking area in the early afternoon to retrieve our vehicles and celebrate an extraordinary 4 days in the mountains.
What's Included
- Expert certified guide
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Overnight accommodation
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Picnic
Not Included
- Transportation to/from starting point
- Personal hiking equipment
- Travel insurance
- Accident insurance (incl. air rescue)
- Healthcare insurance (incl. air rescue)
Next Departures
- 19 June 2027 — 10 spots left
- 7 August 2027 — 10 spots left
- 9 September 2027 — 10 spots left
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this tour?
This is rated challenging, with 34 km of distance and 2,345 m of elevation gain spread over 4 days. Expect sustained climbing and descending across varied terrain, so a solid hiking fitness base is important.
What kind of terrain will we be walking on?
The route covers forest paths, alpine meadows, mountain passes, rocky trails, and singletrack. Footing varies throughout, so broken-in boots with good ankle support and grip are recommended.
Where do we meet to start the tour?
The meeting point is in Chardonney, Aosta Valley, Italy, located within the Mont Avic Regional Park area. Exact coordinates and directions are provided upon booking.
How many days does the tour take?
This 4-day tour covers a total of 34 km with 2,345 m of elevation gain. The itinerary is structured at a manageable pace across the four days, featuring half-days on the 1st and last days to allow for comfortable arrival and departure logistics.
Do I need previous hiking experience for this route?
Given the challenging rating, significant elevation gain, and mixed terrain including rocky trails and mountain passes, prior multi-day hiking experience is recommended. Being comfortable on singletrack and uneven ground will help you enjoy the tour.
What should I pack for the mountain passes and alpine sections?
Since the route crosses mountain passes and alpine meadows as well as forested and rocky stretches, layered clothing for changing conditions and sturdy hiking footwear are essential. Trekking poles are also worth bringing given the elevation gain over the 4 days.
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Why Book With Made to Hike
This tour is led by a certified mountain guide verified through Made to Hike. All guides on the platform hold recognised certifications such as IFMGA, IML, or equivalent local qualifications. Bookings include secure payment processing, a money-back guarantee, and direct communication with your guide before the trip.