The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Marcel

The ancient Seissogne mill represents a significant testament to the rural civilization of the Aosta Valley. Probably of medieval origin, although subsequently extensively remodeled, the mill was part of a community system of structures designed to grind the grains grown on the valley's terraces. In times when the local economy was based almost exclusively on self-sufficiency, the mill was an essential infrastructure: here, rye, barley, and wheat were transformed into flour, a staple of the peasant diet. Management was often collective or regulated by community customs, and use of the mill was subject to precise shifts. Architecturally, the building retains the typical characteristics of Alpine mills: a stone structure, slate roofing, and simple interiors.

Built in the 15th century, it has features typical of the Aosta Valley, such as the canopy consisting of a brick cross vault and two columns. The bell tower contains five bells 🔔 - the oldest is documented to be from 1843

The most curious feature of the village of Avisod is a small church, probably built between the end of the 17th and the beginning of the 18th century, which has now been transformed into a private home. It must be said that the transformation took place in a truly singular way: on the one hand, the original architectural features of the church have been maintained, on the other, the building has acquired the typical appearance of old Aosta Valley houses, with a wooden gallery that runs along the facade and now serves as a balcony. If the church was destined to fall into ruin, so much the better that it has been adapted and returned to daily life: an intelligent and respectful way of giving continuity to a piece of history.

Fonteil probably owes its name to the abundance of springs in this area, which have always been a fundamental resource for the life of the village. Thanks to these springs, in fact, along the mountain slopes - here gentler and therefore more easily cultivated - small crops have developed that, for generations, have supported the local community. In the past, Fonteil was also an important stop in the transhumance of herds. In late spring, shepherds passed through here to lead the cattle to the mountain pastures, while at the end of summer, when the high mountain pastures began to dry up, the return journey to the valley brought new life to the village. Today Fonteil is the ideal starting point for climbing to the Croce di Fana, which at 2211 meters offers a spectacular panoramic view of the valley. Furthermore, it represents the privileged access to go up the scenic valley of the Deche torrent.

In the winter months, from Semon you can see the sun setting behind the tip of Emilius, with golden reflections spreading all around.

A handful of characteristic stone and wood houses grouped around the church, resting on the slope of the plateau and facing the curtain of mountains, all with peaks over 3000, which stand out in front.

Verrayes is located on a large plateau that is always sunny, even in the middle of winter. For this reason, especially in winter, it represents an excellent starting point for excursions in the surrounding area.

It's almost unbelievable how much current there is on that hydroelectric canal.