Courmayeur Day Hikes
We all know that the Alps offer a huge range of fun hiking routes. Especially in a region like Courmayeur in Italy where there is plenty to discover. There are (at least!) 283 hikes to choose from and the variations are endess.
We we will listen to your needs and make the right choices for you!...We often get asked which are the “best” but it’s impossible to say because it completely depends on your criteria. However, here is a sample of 5 that are worth an explore and accessible for all abilities.
The hikes we have included here will change from time-to-time because although we are often asked the question, it is impossible to pick "the best 5 hikes in Courmayeur". Naturally, they change with the seasons, conditions and popularity. But just so you know what treats you are in for, here is our pick of some of the top treks at the moment...
Day Hike to Refugio Bonatti
Some of the best views on this trail are of immense glaciers tumbling down from the dramatically high peaks of Mont Blanc. Sheer rock walls of over 3,000 meters cannot fail to take your breath away. Its over 6 miles hike to the refugio, where you are greeted with a warm welcome and hearty local food like bean soup and various cheeses. (You can even sample a glass of locally produced wine).
Day Hike to Bivuoac Fiorio
This is a difficult hiking trail with good ascent and descent. On the ascent you hike up the shorter and steeper grassy trail affording utterly beguiling views of the Val Ferret curving its way down through the picturesque Val Veny valley. This is part of the Tour du Mont Blanc, so it is busier than some trails but the views are well worth it. A mid-way point is the traditional Rifugio Elena where you can choose to stop to take in the spectacular views. From here you climb up the Col Ferrent before branching off into a small valley. The hiking trail then moves onto the crest of another canyon on the moraine slopes heads towards Mont Dolent until you come to the bivouacs at an altitude of 2,800m. The return journey takes a wider mule track making an easier walk back down the mountain and very different views of the Pre de Bar Glacier and its surrounding rugged, rocky landscape.
Val Veny – Day Hike to Miage Lake
Val Veny is a wonderfully pretty area that opens out onto the heart of the Mont Blanc Massif, which allows you to appreciate its grand scale as well as the pristine beauty and colour of its glacial rivers.
Stopping at Lake Combal allows you to eat in a very pretty location before you climb up to the stunning, heart shaped Lake Miage at 2,020m. You are likely to be treated to a riot of colour and an array of local wildlife including Ibex
Day Hike to Col des Chavannes
The day begins with a bus ride into the Val Veny & the terminus at La Visialle. Wind your way up into the beautiful Val Veny on an easy trail passing by Lac Combal. If time allows, stop for refreshments at the Refuge Elizabetta before continuing up into the to the higher reaches of the valley and up to the Col des Chavannes with stunning views over the Italian side of the Mont Blanc Massif. Options to return via the same path or descend to La Thuille & take the bus back to Courmayeur.
Day Hike to l’Arp Vieille
Taking the local bus one again into the Val Veny to La Visialle this fabulous route takes you on one of the best sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc. At Lac Combal you ascend steeply into the beautiful Arp valley to the old farm ruins of l’Arp Vieille. Continue with Mont Blanc as your backdrop and far reaching views over towards the Swiss Alps. Traverse high above the Val Veny and descend through the ski area back to Courmayeur.
