The best cycling routes around Valpelline
4.4
(457)
8,332
riders
123
rides
Touring cycling around Valpelline features routes through mountain valleys, past significant dams, and alongside alpine lakes. The region's terrain includes both challenging ascents and more gradual paths, characteristic of the Aosta Valley. Cyclists can expect a mix of natural landscapes and historical points of interest.
Best touring cycling routes around Valpelline
- The most popular touring cycling route is Porta Pretoria (Aosta) – Arch of Augustus loop from Valpelline, a 19.9 miles (32.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 15…
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.5
(4)
88
riders
45.6km
03:44
1,360m
1,360m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
44
riders
24.4km
02:09
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
27
riders
21.4km
01:45
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
22
riders
32.0km
03:55
1,170m
1,160m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
32.2km
02:51
1,200m
1,200m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Il Prarayer is an alpine plateau located at about 2000 meters above sea level, at the end of the Place-Moulin lake. It is reached by a simple path that runs along the lake, almost always flat. The environment is open, with meadows, small streams, and some alpine pasture buildings. The landscape is surrounded by high peaks and glacial environments, clearly visible in the background. The Rifugio Prarayer is located here, used as a base for longer excursions. The area is suitable for a quiet break after the walk along the lake. Itineraries to side valleys and high-altitude routes start from here. Despite the altitude, the setting remains accessible and not very demanding.
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The Place Moulin dam is a majestic arch-gravity dam, designed to make the most of the narrow and incised conformation of the valley. Its concrete structure develops with a slight curvature, which allows the water's thrust to be transferred to the lateral rock walls, reducing direct pressure on the base and ensuring high stability. With a height of approximately 155 meters and a crest length of over 600 meters, it represents one of the most imposing hydraulic works in the Italian Alps. The artificial basin formed upstream reaches a capacity of over 100 million cubic meters of water, mainly fed by the Buthier stream and glacial meltwater. The plant is an integral part of a hydroelectric system: the accumulated water is conveyed through penstocks to power plants located downstream, where the head is transformed into energy. The management of levels is regulated by surface and bottom outlets, designed to control both floods and ordinary releases.
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The Marmitta dei Giganti in Bionaz is a striking cavity carved into the rock that tells of the power of the alpine glaciers. It formed during the last ice age, when meltwaters, laden with sand and stones, channeled into powerful vortices: the debris, rotating ceaselessly, smoothed the rock to create this deep, almost perfectly shaped "pot". Alongside the scientific explanation, the charm of legend also survives: it is said that giants dug these cavities, using them as containers or leaving their superhuman strength imprinted on them. It is precisely this intertwining of nature and imagination that makes the place so fascinating.
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BY, spectacular and wide valley
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Very peaceful walk around the lake and majestic lake.
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You can also stay for just a few hours: the hour costs 50 cents (as of 2025).
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At the hut, you can enjoy good, traditional dishes at really fair prices. In good weather, you can enjoy the view of the lake from the terrace. If the weather is bad, there's plenty of space inside, too.
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Recommended route in the opposite direction because otherwise the path that goes down is quite steep and very vertical
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Valpelline?
Valpelline offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 120 different options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easier valley rides to more challenging mountain ascents.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Valpelline?
Yes, Valpelline has 25 easy touring cycling routes. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed, these easier options generally feature more gradual paths, making them suitable for those seeking a less strenuous ride. For a moderately challenging option, consider the Porta Pretoria (Aosta) – Arch of Augustus loop from Valpelline, which is 32.1 km long and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes, offering a journey through historical Aosta.
What are the more challenging touring cycling routes in Valpelline?
For experienced touring cyclists, Valpelline provides 70 difficult routes. These often involve significant ascents and cover varied terrain. An example is the Place Moulin Dam – Place-Moulin Lake loop from Oyace, a 27.7 km path with impressive views of the dam and lake.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Valpelline?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Valpelline are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The Lago Lexert loop from Valpelline is a popular 20.9 km circular trail that takes about 1 hour 42 minutes to complete, leading through the scenic area around Lago Lexert.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Valpelline?
The best season for touring cycling in Valpelline is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and mountain passes are usually clear of snow, providing optimal conditions for exploring the region's valleys and alpine landscapes.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Valpelline?
Touring cycling in Valpelline offers diverse scenery, including routes through mountain valleys, alongside alpine lakes, and past significant dam structures. You'll encounter a mix of natural landscapes and historical points of interest, characteristic of the Aosta Valley.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the touring cycling routes in Valpelline?
Yes, the region is rich in points of interest. You can explore historical sites like the ancient Roman landmarks in Aosta, as seen on the Porta Pretoria (Aosta) – Arch of Augustus loop from Valpelline. Other attractions include impressive structures like the Place Moulin Dam and scenic alpine lakes such as Lago Lexert. Nearby, you can also find mountain passes like Fenêtre de Durand or Col de Champillon.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Valpelline?
The touring cycling routes in Valpelline are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 460 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's varied terrain, the stunning mountain valley views, and the unique experience of cycling past alpine lakes and significant dams.
Are there any routes that offer particularly scenic views?
Many routes in Valpelline are known for their scenic beauty. The Place Moulin Dam – Place-Moulin Lake loop from Oyace provides spectacular views of the dam and its surrounding lake. Another route, the Beautiful lake! – Ollomont loop from Ollomont, is a challenging 32 km ride that offers stunning lake vistas.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in Valpelline?
The duration of touring cycling routes in Valpelline varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For instance, the Lago Lexert loop from Valpelline can be completed in about 1 hour 42 minutes, while more challenging routes like the Blavy Church and Viewpoint – Ru Pompillard Trail loop from Gignod, which is 26.4 km with significant elevation, might take around 2 hours 35 minutes.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest accessible by touring bike?
Yes, several routes allow you to combine cycling with cultural exploration. The Porta Pretoria (Aosta) – Arch of Augustus loop from Valpelline takes you through historical Aosta, where you can see ancient Roman landmarks. Additionally, the Blavy Church and Viewpoint – Ru Pompillard Trail loop from Gignod offers views of local churches and historical trails.
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