Resorts: Brissogne
Les Iles Nature Reserve, not far from the river Dora Baltea, is* one of the last wetlands at a low altitude* and an important stopping point for migratory birds. The birdlife is one of the attractions of the place, you can see the white heron, the red heron, the little egret and numerous species of anatids. In springtime the site assumes high importance when it reaches the peak of reports and sightings. Among the sedentary species we can mention: Mallard, Coot, Cannaiola and Moorhen, typical inhabitants of the marsh vegetation.
From Aosta, follow national road 26 towards Turin; turn right at Brissogne bridge. Just beyond the bridge, there is the construction called Palafent, it’s a popular sports game area with a large parking lot outside. Leave the car in the parking lot outside. Head towards the river and take the cycle path on the right that runs alongside the waterway. At the first crossroads go left, in the lane reserved for pedestrians, and continue until you meet the observation posts and then the first water level, the path rejoins the cycle path and going left you continue towards the second pond.
Leave the cycle path again to go inside the reserve where other observation points are located. At the next intersection with the cycle path, turn right to return to the starting point. Along the return stretch, proceed to a crossroads, on the left there is a dirt road with an indication of the bicycle route towards Pollein, continue on the dirt road, in the middle of the fields, up to a crossroads before the underpass, and take the dirt road to the right which runs alongside a stretch of highway. At the end of this straight stretch you reach the parking lot again.
Note - this information is not directly connected to the Cammino Balteo path but it is part of the Aosta Valley tourist offer.
Hiking guides