The best cycling routes around Gressoney-Saint-Jean

The stone bridge of Lillianes, completed in 1733, represents a hydraulic work of exceptional value for the Lys Valley, being the only historic bridge in the region structured on four round arches. The choice of this configuration, supported by robust piers equipped with cut-water spurs, was dictated by the need to span a section of the Lys stream particularly subject to violent floods. The roadway, made with a characteristic donkey-back shape in local stone, hosts a votive shrine dedicated to Saint Roch in the center, historically placed to protect travelers against pestilences. A relevant anecdote concerns the complex financing of the work: the local community, in order not to depend exclusively on central subsidies, chose to heavily tax themselves through the "taglioni" system, a form of mandatory contribution based on land ownership. It is said that the families of the village contributed not only with money but also by providing labor and materials, as the bridge was considered vital for the economy linked to the chestnut trade and transhumance. Another curious detail concerns its incredible resistance: during past floods, while other wooden or lighter structures were swept away, the bridge of Lillianes remained intact, consolidating its fame as an indestructible monument and a symbol of unity for the entire valley population.

Good place to stop and fill your water bottles

The Chalet du Lys Hotel & SPA is located in Staffal, at approximately 1,820 meters above sea level, at the foot of Monte Rosa, just steps from the ski lifts and perfect for both skiers and summer hikers. This 4-star property combines Alpine elegance and modern comforts: 39 rooms and apartments furnished with handcrafted furniture, each with a balcony and mountain views. The panoramic location of the Chalet du Lys makes it a perfect base for summer cycling enthusiasts: high mountain trails, Monte Rosa tours, and itineraries along the Lys Valley are all nearby. An e-bike charging station, storage, and support for two-wheeled excursions ensure everything you need for pedaling immersed in Alpine nature. The Chalet du Lys is also the ideal place to charge your e-bike and earn DINAclub points. Find out how at https://dinaclub.repower.com/ To discover the area, a ready-to-ride itinerary: https://www.komoot.com/it-it/tour/2426517693?share_token=a4uULGy3e7w25cFSWegdLaKFGSu1H2sMIBPF86gJ9CcAjHqXzY&ref=wtd

The Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore in Quincinetto, Italy, is a beautiful parish church located in the center of the village, near the bell tower. Although there are reports of medieval origins since 1297, the church was rebuilt in 1770 in the current late Baroque style, according to the design of architect Bella. The church is 35 meters long and has three chapels on each side. The facade is decorated with beautiful frescoes by the famous painter Carlo Cogrossi from Treviglio. The facade has two marker bands that divide it into registers. The lower registers contain six niches with statues of saints, while the upper register shows an altar icon of the Redeemer in relief. The church has a spacious and bright single-nave space with twelve windows that illuminate the interior. The walls are decorated with frescoes of the Via Crucis, altars and decorative floral motifs. The presbytery is crowned with a red canopy and houses an impressive altar in brick and imitation marble. Four frescoes in the presbytery show scenes from the life of Jesus. The church also contains a unique painting of Jesus as the Redeemer. The walls of the choir are decorated with biblical scenes set after the Resurrection of Christ, painted by Carlo Antonio Cogrossi.

The resort of Champoluc is renowned for winter sports, from the small downhill skiing resort of Antagnod to the well-known facilities of the Monterosa Ski area of Frachey and Champoluc, which, with over 100 km of slopes, connect the Val d'Ayas, the Gressoney Valley and the Valsesia.

The Champoluc meadow is one of the symbols of the mountain town. The large, flat green space is perfect for relaxing in the warm summer sun and visiting a small group of alpacas.

Champoluc is the main center of the Ayas valley. The charming village is nestled, at 1,600 meters above sea level, between the Rosa massif and the Zerbion. Champoluc is a popular tourist destination both in winter with its 180 km of slopes and in summer with its multitude of paths.

The wide and comfortable compact dirt road runs alongside the Evancon whose crystal clear waters flow quickly. Here you pedal on a very slight slope in the cool shade of the trees.