Brief description
The secluded Moillaz valley is well worth a visit.
A beautiful mule track climbs up the valley floor through woodland, eventually reaching a long plateau. This open plain is crossed by a lively little stream that winds gracefully in wide bends, while the valley’s isolation ensures a true immersion in nature.
For those wishing to continue, it is possible to follow the route of the Alta Via no. 1 as far as Col Pousseuil.
Most usefull data
| General evaluation | |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | E |
| Uphill slope | 900 m |
| Total length | 11.500 m |
| Total time | 5h 0m |
| Assiduity | Average |
Map
| Start point | Les Donnes |
|---|---|
| Start elevation | 870 m |
| Peak elevation | 1.750 m |
| Max elevation | 1.750 m |
| Exposure | None |
| Downhill slope | 900 m |
|---|---|
| Uphill time | 3h 0m |
| Downhill time | 2h 0m |
| Uphill trail sign | 4 |
| Downhill trail sign | 4 |
| Accessible for childrens | Beware |
Start point description
From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn left towards Aosta.
At the roundabout, keep left, continuing in the direction of Aosta.
Follow the long straight road almost to its end, passing through two traffic lights, until you find on your left the road descending towards Vert.
Pass under the railway, cross the Dora Baltea River, and continue to a small roundabout where you turn left.
Continue along the road, then at the junction turn left again. At the end of the long straight stretch, turn right towards the hamlet of Montey (the church is clearly visible).
The road climbs the mountain slope in steep switchbacks. At one of these, around 900 meters in altitude, turn right and descend gently to reach the houses of Donnes. Just before or just after the village, look for a widening in the road where you can park your car.
The road is drivable for a short additional stretch, but it is steep and parking lots are very limited.
Trail description
From the car park, follow the rural road, which after an initial uphill stretch descends to the Fer di Bonze stream.
Just beyond, a beautiful mule track begins, leading above the hamlet of Mont Meillant. The path then enters the valley, crossing the clusters of Mognissolaz and Le Bochet along the way.
A section rich in wild blueberries follows, before the trail crosses the stream and climbs to the Giassit de Moillaz alpine pasture.
From here, the route reaches the broad plateau of Moia (or Moillaz), crossed by a charming little stream. Continue as far as the small bridge, where on the opposite side you’ll find smooth rock slabs—an ideal spot for a lunch break.
The descent follows the same route back.
Last update
30 October 2025, 11:00