Valnontey River Trail hike
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The Valnontey River trail in Gran Paradiso National Park is an easy trail that takes you through a beautiful valley along the Valnontey River. You will see stunning mountains, amazing glaciers, and waterfalls rushing down the distant steep mountain slopes. At the end of this trail, you will see the breathtaking ice falls - waterfalls, rushing down the glaciers.
Getting there
Head to Cogne, and then take the Rue Grand Paradis Road to drive to Valnontey village. Park your car at one of the car parks, you will need to pay for the parking in coins.
About
When to do | All Year |
Backcountry Campsites | No |
Pets allowed | No |
Family friendly | Yes |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | High |
Route Type | Out and back |
Valnontey River Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Valnontey River Trail
The Valnontey River trail is a great family-friendly hike that leads through a beautiful valley along the Valnontey River. You will see stunning glaciers, towering mountains, amazing waterfalls, and old Italian farms. The trail is wide and easy to follow with almost no elevation gain, which makes it a great walk to do with children.
The Valnontey River hike starts in Valnontey village. Park your car in one of the parking areas in the village. The parking costs 1 Eur per hour or 4 Eur per day.
The trail starts just after the Valnontey village. Head south-west and keep the river to your right.
You will immediately see the views of magnificent mountains around you and a lovely waterfall cascading down from a steep mountain slope. Continue forward and pass a horse enclosure on your left.
Cross a small bridge which will lead you to the other side of the river and continue along the trail, keeping the river to your left.
On a clear day, you will be able to enjoy the views of the glaciers in front of you.
After you pass an old farm, cross the river again to the other side using another bridge. Continue along the trail. You will see some very old buildings; some of them are still used as small farms or houses.
Continue until you reach the crossroad and enjoy the stunning views of the ice falls – waterfalls rushing down the glaciers. Take some time to appreciate the views of gorgeous mountains, rushing streams and the crystal-clear turquoise colors of Valnontey River.
You can go back the same way you came or add one of the more difficult hikes that start from the crossroad and make your hike longer.
Insider Hints
The Parking only accepts coins, so try to keep coins on hand for paying for parking. If you don't have coins, the nice people in the cafes nearby will be happy to break your notes for you.
Have some cash as there are no ATMs nearby. Closest ATM is in Cogne, 3.5km away.
Visit Bar Lauson for some great coffee and amazing homemade puddings.
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donal 2 years ago
Very easy trail and very beautiful - stunning views of mountains. We visited on a Saturday in summer when Valnontey was absolutely heaving with people of all ages - so if you are seeking peace and solitude you won’t find it! The Hotel Herbetet by the car park had a lovely terrace where the friendly hoteliers served us panini and coffee for lunch.
claritam 4 years ago
Amazing views of glaciers! It was worth the visit!
Scott P. 4 years ago
The trail was amazing, recommend doing it at first daylight to capture the magic of early mornings.
Jacob M. 4 years ago
Fairly easy trail with few steep slopes. Overall a great hike. I enjoyed it.
Filip l. 4 years ago
Gorgeous views. Nice day tour. It was super fun!
TeddyBear 4 years ago
Wonderful both in summer and in winter!
Rolando Acciaio 4 years ago
I visited it in the summer and absolutely it was a fantastic place!
Gilberto Fattore 4 years ago
Beautiful easy walking path and the river is amazing
Alexis Schweitzer 4 years ago
This beautiful hike was the highlight of our trip to the Gran Paradiso National Park
Francesco D. 4 years ago
Amazing glaciers and will be a good choice if you need a small hike