4.8
(19)
96
hikers
Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop
04:17
12.3km
520m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 7.7-mile Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop for continuous Matterhorn views and charming car-free villages.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Alpine Hut
Get Directions
628 m
Chamois
Highlight • Settlement
It is included in the Consorzio delle Perle delle Alpi (Consortium of the Pearls of the Alps) for a peculiarity: it is the only village in Italy (on the mainland) without cars. Reaching it is indeed only possible on foot, by bicycle, or by cable car.
The historic mule track with 93 bends, known as "Les Seingles", was once the only connection to Chamois. One used to start from Buisson and only arrive after a few hours of hard walking.
Today, everything is easier, a practical path starts from the hamlet of Corgnolaz in La Magdeleine and after about an hour's easy walk, you reach your destination.
Upon arrival in Chamois, we find the beautiful little square with the church and the town hall, and from here the entire village unfolds with its hamlets. The first thing you perceive upon arrival is the absolute silence, the peace, and the tranquility of a small mountain village without cars and without traffic, which seems suspended in time.
From the square also departs one of the three lifts present in the village. From here, we can indeed take a chairlift to reach Lake Lod (Lago di Lod) in 5 minutes, at 2015 m. A beautiful small lake on whose shores an equipped picnic area has been created; in the surroundings, there are also some restaurants.
We can also reach Lake Lod on foot, from the village, via a path or the convenient dirt road, with a simple walk of about 30-40 minutes. The route is well marked and starts from the village.
From the lake, you can climb up to Punta Falinère and reach the Sanctuary of Clavalité (2530 m) by following path no. 3 and a fairly steep mule track.
Chamois is also a very beautiful destination in winter, when the ski slopes open and the village fills with skiers and snowshoe hikers.
Showing Translation
Tip by
992 m
View of Chamois
Highlight • Viewpoint
1.18 km
Labyrinth of Love of Chamois
Highlight • Structure
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Tip by
1.79 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
2.13 km
La Magdeleine Picnic and Play Area
Highlight • Rest Area
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Tip by
2.80 km
View of Lake Maen
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
3.10 km
View of the Matterhorn
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
3.22 km
View of the Matterhorn on the Way to Chamois
Highlight • Viewpoint
Continue for about a kilometre, at the next bend you will find the entrance to path no. 107 which connects shortly afterwards with the farm road, or, if you prefer to access the farm road directly, continue along the road for a further hundred meters beyond the bend and walk along the dirt road on the left which leads to Chamois where you reach a mountain pasture and a little further on, located at the height of the bollard for unauthorized vehicles, a wooden fountain. The route continues parallel to the Ru Veuillen. Once you reach Alpe Capetou, go up for a short stretch, turn east and then continue on the flat. Once you reach the Sauveroux valley, go down and cross the stream and then continue into the woods. Once you arrive at the village of Suis, continue and reach the Trinity chapel on the right and immediately after, near the bridge, the old mill with the ancient oil mill. Cross the bridge over the Chamois stream and reach the hamlet of Corgnolaz.
This path is part of the route The great balcony of the Matterhorn where there is also a thematic walk suitable for children, outdoors, which has the theme of energy as its underlying theme: Energie in Gioco. A path along which seven playful installations have been placed which lead to discovering how energy is produced and consumed as well as making people reflect on Water, Fire, Earth and the Sun. Don't miss the double funicular which offers the possibility to "fly" for 20 meters and the volcano to climb.
Along the path, which can be walked in both directions, 20 panels have also been placed which illustrate, in a simple but exhaustive way, what energy is used for, how much is consumed, how it is produced and how it can be done in a sustainable from renewable sources and then focusing on its use and savings.
The car parks adjacent to the starting point of the path are paid, three blue columns are available for issuing tickets (coin or easypark app only)
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Tip by
4.18 km
Honey Hut
Highlight • Cafe
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Tip by
6.35 km
Brengon's fish
Highlight • Monument
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Tip by
11.1 km
Picnic Area at the Entrance to Chamois
Highlight • Rest Area
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Tip by
12.3 km
End point
Alpine Hut
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.69 km
2.28 km
2.19 km
640 m
454 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
6.36 km
2.28 km
2.25 km
840 m
494 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,960 m)
Lowest point (1,640 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 25 May
20°C
11°C
55 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop?
This specific Komoot tour, the Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop, is designed to be completed in approximately 4 hours and 17 minutes of moving time. However, actual duration can vary based on your pace, breaks, and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
What is the difficulty level of this hike?
This particular loop is rated as moderate. While the full Gran Balconata del Cervino can be a multi-day trek, this section is suitable for most hiking enthusiasts with good basic fitness and appropriate gear.
Where does the Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop start, and is there parking available?
This Komoot tour starts near Chamois. Chamois is a car-free village, so access is typically via cable car from Buisson. Parking is usually available at the cable car station in Buisson. Alternatively, you might find parking in nearby villages like La Magdeleine, which is also part of the broader Gran Balconata network.
What kind of views and scenery can I expect on this route?
The trail offers continuous panoramic vistas of the iconic Matterhorn (Cervino), often called the 'most magnificent pyramid of the Alps'. You'll also pass through diverse landscapes including larch forests, rhododendron clearings, and alpine pastures, with views of the Aosta Valley and picturesque villages. Highlights include the View of Chamois and various views of the Matterhorn.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to undertake this trek is generally from June to September. You might also consider late October for the vibrant autumn colors, though conditions can vary.
Is the Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop dog-friendly?
While the general Gran Balconata del Cervino is often dog-friendly, specific rules can vary by section and local regulations. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and ensure they are well-behaved and capable of handling the moderate terrain.
Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this hike?
No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to hike this section of the Gran Balconata del Cervino Loop. However, if you use the cable car to access Chamois, there will be a fee for that service.
Are there any facilities or places to get refreshments along the way?
Yes, the route passes through or near villages and facilities. You'll find the Honey Hut and Brengon's fish, as well as picnic areas like La Magdeleine Picnic and Play Area and the Picnic Area at the Entrance to Chamois. Chamois itself is a village with amenities.
What are some of the key highlights or landmarks on this specific Komoot tour?
Along this route, you'll encounter the charming Chamois Village, enjoy a View of Chamois, and pass by the unique Labyrinth of Love of Chamois. There are also several points offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and a View of Lake Maen.
Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, this Komoot tour utilizes sections of several official trails. Notably, it covers a significant portion of the Gran Balconata del Cervino - Stage 5 and also intersects with parts of the Ciclovia del Cervino and Strada Chamois - La-Magdeleine, among others.
What should I bring for this moderate hike?
For this moderate loop, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are recommended), water, snacks, sun protection, and a map or GPS device. Given the views, a camera is also a great idea!
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Classic itinerary that, starting from Artaz, allows you to reach Col Pilaz and then descend again to Col Pilaz. In the winter months, snow permitting, it can be entirely and easily covered with snowshoes. In summer it is very popular. Beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.