Bourg-Saint-Maurice

INTO THE WILD: GRAN PARADISO HIKE

Hiking

What you'll do

Gran Paradiso offers an unforgettable trekking experience through Italy’s first national park. Hike past pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and towering peaks, with panoramic views at every turn. Encounter ibex and marmots as you ascend towards breathtaking vistas, from Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II to the glacial landscapes near the summit. Whether a multi-day adventure or a scenic day hike, these well-marked trails deliver nature’s best—serene beauty, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable memories.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Bourg St Maurice!

Today is all about settling in, meeting at 4PM in Bourg St Maurice and getting ready for the journey ahead. We'll have a casual introduction, go over the itinerary, and ensure everything is set for tomorrow. The day ends with a relaxed group gathering to bond before the adventure begins!

Day 2 - Into the Alps: Hike to Refuge de l'Archeboc (2,030 m)

Start the day (10:30 AM) by transferring to Ste Foy en Tarentaise, a charming Alpine town. Begin your trek through the Tarentaise Valley, passing lush pastures and grazing animals. Ascend 600 m (or 1,100 m via an extended route with a possible alpine lake swim) to Refuge de l'Archeboc (2,030 m), a cozy overnight stay with stunning mountain views. Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) | Elevation Gain: +600 m (+1,968 ft) | Time: 4 hours

Day 3 - Into Italy: Crossing Col du Mont into Gran Paradiso (2,636 m)

Start the day with a steady ascent to Col du Mont (2,636 m / 8,648 ft), where breathtaking views of Pointe d’Archeboc (3,272 m) and Becca du Lac (3,405 m) mark your entry into Italy and Gran Paradiso National Park. A long descent through alpine landscapes leads to a final short climb to Refuge de l’Epée (2,370 m / 7,776 ft) for the night. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation Gain: Elevation: +1,200 m (+3,937 ft) -850 m (-2,789 ft) | Time: 6 hours

Day 4 - Through Alpine Valleys to Refuge Bezzi (2,370 m)

Trek across the flanks of Grande Rousse (3,607 m / 11,834 ft), a striking peak resembling a leaning Matterhorn. The journey winds through marshlands, farmland, and fragrant larch forests, where pink alpenrose and bilberry shrubs flourish. Keep an eye out for ibex along the way! Descend to 1,850 m (6,099 ft) before following the Dora di Valgrisenche River south, then ascend to Refuge Bezzi (2,284 m / 7,493 ft) for the night. Distance: 16 km (10 mi) | Elevation Gain: +798 m (+2,617 ft) -1,340 m (-4,395 ft) | Time: 5-6 hours

Day 5 - High Alpine Pass & Glacial Views: Col Bassac Déré to Refuge Benevolo (3,082 m)

A spectacular and rewarding day, starting with an ascent through wildflower-lined rocky trails, passing small waterfalls and streams. Reach Col Bassac Déré (3,082 m / 10,112 ft), where the vast Ghiacciaio di Glairettaz dominates the landscape. Option to climb Becca della Traversère (3,337 m / 10,948 ft) for even grander vistas. Descend past Lago Goletta before reaching Refuge Benevolo (2,285 m / 7,497 ft). Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation Gain: +750 m (+2,460 ft) -1,350 m (-4,430 ft) | Time: 5.5 hours

Day 6 - Glacial Passes & Alpine Traditions: Refuge Benevolo to Rifugio Tetras Lyre (3,176 m)

Start the day with stunning sunrise views over Granta Parei (3,387 m / 11,112 ft) before choosing between two scenic routes: a challenging ascent via Col Basei (3,176 m / 10,420 ft) or a less demanding route via Col Rosset (3,023 m / 9,918 ft). After passing Lago Leytaz, continue beyond the plateau crossing Gran Collet (2,836 m / 9,304 ft), a spectacular viewpoint with panoramic vistas stretching over the valleys and distant mountain ranges. From here, the trail gradually descends towards Rifugio Tetras Lyre (2,100 m / 6,889 ft), nestled in a picturesque setting that makes for an ideal overnight stop. Distance: 19 km (11.8 mi) | Elevation Gain: +1300 m (+4,265 ft) -1430 m (-4,692 ft) | Time: 7-8 hours

Day 7 - Crossing Gran Collet to the Historic Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II (2,832 m)

Begin the day at Rifugio Tetras Lyre, descending through the picturesque Piano del Nivolet Valley, framed by the imposing Mont Taou Blanc and Punta Basei. The route showcases a landscape dominated by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, providing an awe-inspiring alpine experience. Ascend to Gran Collet Pass (2,832 m / 9,291 ft), where panoramic views of Gran Paradiso unfold. From here, descend towards Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II (2,735 m / 8,973 ft), an iconic alpine refuge dating back to 1884. Total Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi) | Elevation Gain: +1,208 m (+3,963 ft) -1,050 m (-3,445 ft) | Time: 5 hours

Day 8 - Final Descent to Pont & Return to Bourg St Maurice (2,750 m)

On the last leg of our trek, follow a scenic rocky valley trail, crossing alpine streams and a wooden bridge. A possible detour leads to Rifugio Chabod (2,750 m / 9,022 ft) before descending through larch forests and past grazing ibex and chamois to Alpe de Lavassey (2,194 m / 7,198 ft). The final stretch winds through farmland to Pont (Valsavarenche), where we transfer back to Bourg St Maurice (arrival ~5 PM). Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) | Elevation: +300 m (+984 ft) -1,165 m (-3,822 ft) | Time: 4-5 hours

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

Accommodation

Dinner

Breakfast

Private transport from Bourg St Maurice to Ste-Foy-Tarentaise (Day 2)

Private transport from Pont to Bourg St Maurice (Day 8)

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

Hiking poles

Mountain boots

Lunch

Snacks and drinks

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Accomodations

1 / 3

La Petite Auberge - Day 1

La Petite Auberge is a charming establishment offering both comfortable accommodations and a delightful dining experience. Situated approximately a 15-minute walk from the town center, guests can enjoy a pleasant stroll to explore local attractions and restaurants. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge de l'Archeboc - Day 2

Refuge de l'Archeboc is a mountain hut located in the hamlet of La Motte. Situated at an elevation of 2,029 meters, it serves as a welcoming haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Haute Tarentaise region. The refuge offers 36 sleeping places, including private rooms and a dormitory, each equipped with essential amenities such as showers. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge Chalet de l'Épée - Day 3

Refuge Chalet de l'Épée is a welcoming mountain hut located at 2,370 meters in the Valgrisenche Valley. The refuge has 80 sleeping spots, with rooms accommodating 3 to 6 people for families and spacious dormitories for groups. Facilities include shared restrooms with hot showers and hairdryers. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge Bezzi - Day 4

Refuge Bezzi, perched at 2,284 meters in the scenic Valgrisenche Valley of the Aosta region, offers a genuine alpine experience. The refuge features small rooms and dormitories, hot showers, and a lively communal atmosphere. Its restaurant serves hearty Valdôtain dishes, perfect for refueling after a long trek. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge Benevolo - Day 5

Refuge Gian Federico Benevolo, at 2,285 meters in the wild and picturesque Val di Rhêmes, is a beloved stop for hikers, climbers, and ski tourers exploring Gran Paradiso National Park. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, the hut provides dormitory and private room accommodations, hot showers, and a cozy dining area serving authentic Valdôtain cuisine. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge Tetras Lyre - Day 6

Refuge Tetras Lyre is a charming mountain hut located at approximately 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) in the Aosta Valley, Italy. The refuge offers various accommodation options, including double rooms, quadruple rooms, and dormitories for up to 12 people, all equipped with modern amenities. It is also accessible for people with reduced mobility, with adapted common areas and sanitary facilities. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

1 / 2

Refuge Vittorio Emanuele II - Day 7

Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, at 2,732 meters in the heart of Gran Paradiso National Park, is a key stop for mountaineers and hikers. Originally built in 1884 and later expanded, this modern yet rustic refuge serves as the primary base for climbers ascending Gran Paradiso. It offers dormitory-style accommodations, a lively communal atmosphere, and a restaurant featuring hearty local cuisine. The accommodation may change depending on the availability of the structures, but generally you will stay in shared rooms with shared bathrooms.

Guides

Francesco

Francesco is a UIMLA International Mountain Leader and a Medium Mountain Guide of the Collegio Guide Alpine Lombardia (he is also a yoga teacher!) He loves nature and mountains, and he likes to experience them in every aspect.