Walking route
Punta della Croce.

Punta della Croce.
The Colle San Carlo to Punta della Croce trail in the Aosta Valley is a beautiful trek that combines natural beauty with historical sights. This walk offers breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif and passes ancient military ruins that testify to the strategic importance of this area.
Distance: 12 km.
Time: 4h00.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed on leach.
Height gain: 560 meter.
Trail: 100% unpaved.
Marking: Yellow - Route 16-17-15 and signposts.
Hiking shoes recommended.
Lago d'Arpy.
The walk starts at Colle San Carlo, at 1,951 metres above sea level, and heads towards Colle della Croce at 2,381 metres above sea level. From Colle della Croce, the route continues to Punta della Croce, at 2,485 metres above sea level. Once at Colle della Croce, you will be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch from the La Thuile area to the Grandes Jorasses, with views of the Grand Combin, Mont Vélan and the Grand Rochère along the way. In clear weather, Punta della Croce offers even more extensive views of the Mont Blanc massif, including prominent peaks such as the Aiguille des Glaciers and the Dente del Gigante. Along the route, particularly at Colle della Croce and Punta della Croce, you will find remains of military fortifications. These fortifications were built in the 1930s and 1940s in response to the geopolitical tensions of the time. After World War II, many of these structures were abandoned or dismantled. During the walk, there are informative panels explaining the history and importance of these military fortifications. From the Colle della Croce, you descend to the picturesque Lago d’Arpy. The waters of Lago d'Arpy are deep blue and surrounded by alpine meadows, larch forests and rocky mountainsides, creating an idyllic setting. From the lake, the route takes you back to the starting point along an unpaved forest road.
Download PDF for route description and map.
Preferably undertake in clear weather.