Chamois: Car-Free Mountain Village and Lago di Lod

Chamois is a car-free alpine settlement at an altitude of about 1,800 metres. Access is an important consideration when planning your trip: the village cannot be reached by car or motorcycle. The cable car from Buisson is a public transport service; you can also reach Chamois on foot or by bicycle from the neighbouring municipalities. Check the cable car’s current timetable before setting off, as operating details may change.

Lago di Lod and Corgnolaz

You can reach Lago di Lod by chairlift or along an easy walking trail. The lift operates seasonally, so check opening times before your visit. There are walking paths and equipped picnic areas along the shore. This means the lake offers both trails for a stroll and places to take a break.

There is also an equipped area for children and beginners at Lago di Lod. It includes conveyor belts and a practice slope for children. These facilities are a distinct feature of the area, alongside the walking paths by the lake.

Corgnolaz, the main settlement of Chamois, is characterised by narrow lanes and houses made of wood and stone. The restored watermill is also part of the village’s history: it has not been used since the 1960s.

Hiking, skiing and snowshoe routes

In summer, Le Point Sublime is a starting point for hikes. In winter and spring, ski runs and snowshoe routes begin there. As a viewpoint, it also offers a view of the Cervino. The seasonal activities differ clearly: hiking is associated with summer, while skiing and snowshoeing are mentioned for winter and spring.

The Chamois ski area includes runs of varying difficulty, from easy to challenging. The selection therefore ranges from easier to more demanding runs. The information describes different difficulty levels, not a single run.

Cycling route and paragliding

A flat cycling route runs between Chamois and La Magdeleine and is considered suitable for everyone. Its flat terrain and stated suitability are the key features when comparing it with the seasonal activities at Le Point Sublime. The route has two expressly named endpoints.

Col la Clavalité is a popular launch site for paragliding. Panoramic flights over the entire valley are possible from there. Whether a flight takes place depends on the conditions and the providers.

Local specialities and history

Restaurants in the village and at Lago di Lod may serve Valdostan specialities. These include polenta with Fontina and civet, a game stew. The dishes actually available on the menu may vary by restaurant and time.

Another historical landmark is Chamois’s high-altitude airfield: it was built in 1967 as Italy’s first high-altitude airfield. Together with the watermill, this date points to different traces of the village’s history; it refers to the airfield’s construction, not its current operation.

Discover more destinations: Ozein, La Salle, La Thuile, Introd, Gignod, Gratillon, Arvier, Pré-Saint-Didier.

For the main travel overview: Aosta Valley.