Resorts: Valgrisenche
A simple 5 km route along the artificial lake created by the Beauregard dam. You can start your walk from Mondanges, where the dam wall stands, or from Usellières on the opposite side. Both locations have parking areas. This itinerary is suitable for walking or mountain biking and is within everyone’s reach, including children.
Take the road that climbs up the Valgrisenche, pass the main village, and after the avalanche shelter turn onto the winding road that leads to Bonne. From here, the views will already take your breath away: the road follows the perimeter of the lake, revealing ever-changing scenery. From Bonne, the ascent is gentle until you reach a rocky spur jutting out over the water; then it descends softly to the junction for Lake San Grato and the Col du Mont, before climbing a little more to reach Surrier (1,785 m).
Park your car at Usellières and start the route. The first stretch of dirt road has a slope of over 8%, but soon you’ll find yourself immersed in the lake’s peaceful atmosphere.
If you look closely, you may spot the remains of the village of Fornet, one of the settlements abandoned when the dam was completed and the waters began to rise. It’s a detail that tells the story of these mountains and the people who lived here.
When you arrive at Mondanges, near the dam wall, picnic tables invite you to pause before heading back.
Go to the virtual tour
Note - this information is not directly connected to the Cammino Balteo path but it is part of the Aosta Valley tourist offer.