This fascinating path winds its way through the Cervino (Matterhorn) valley . It totals 73 km although access to it can be made at 12 different locations, so it can be experienced over a
number of days. This fascinating path winds its way through Valtournenche with Matterhorn as it’s reference point whose majestic presence will accompany and guide the traveler along the entire route. The Gran Balconata, path 107, is in fact a journey through the culture and traditions of Valle d’Aosta, a direct contact with the mountain flora and fauna, a path that connects the magic of the mountain to playful and educational moments, a path that constantly keeps you immersed in breathtaking views made of light and shadows, shades and strong colours. This trek retraces the ancient paths that connect all the communities of the Valtournenche area, since the dawn of time; the hamlet of Antey-Saint-André with its 15th century bell tower, the community of La Magdeleine with its ancient mills, the community of Chamois, pearl of the Alps where there are no cars, the village of Cheneil which was the place where many pages pertinent to the history of mountaineering were written, the village of Breuil-Cervinia with its diversity, and nestled in an enchanting basin at the foot of the Gran Becca, the Municipality of Torgnon with a great history of rural life and its immense pastures. The Gran Balconata is not difficult, it is important to know only the basic rules of safety in the mountains and to be equipped with suitable equipment, it is in fact a trek suitable for all lovers of hiking. This trek has twelve access points from where you can take either direction of travel to discover the most evocative places in the Cervino Valley. The recommended time for this trek is from June to September. It has a total distance of 73 km (total altitude difference 2300 m, average altitude 1800 m); the travel time is about 25 hours and it is recommended to do it in 4 stages, with the possibility of staying overnight in hotels and refuges.