Cervinia and Valtournenche, from the Blue Lake to the first snow

At the foot of the Matterhorn, autumn lasts as long as the larch forests retain their shades of yellow and gold, before the snow once again reshapes the landscape. The contrast between the already snow-capped peaks, the barren high-altitude meadows and the colours of the valley floor is one of the reasons to visit Valtournenche even before the winter season is in full swing (the start of the ski season is set for 24 October). One of the easiest destinations to reach on foot from the village, with a walk of about half an hour, is Lago Blu, whose waters, on clear days, reflect the silhouette of the Matterhorn and the Grandes Murailles. For those wishing to walk for longer, the official Ski Paradise website lists several hiking routes, with the option – when the lifts are operating – to reduce the elevation gain by using the high-altitude access points. Among the recommended destinations is Lake Goillet, near Plan Maison, at 2,516 metres; however, the condition of the path in late autumn must be checked before setting off. The village of Valtournenche (where the ski season begins on 28 November) is well worth a visit to experience a more intimate alpine setting than the better-known and busier Breuil-Cervinia, combining walks in the surrounding area with stops at local eateries to discover the delights of Aosta Valley cuisine.

https://www.lovevda.it/it/database/3/locations/Aosta Valley/Breuil-Cervinia/434

https://www.lovevda.it/it/database/3/locations/Aosta Valley/Valtournenche/430