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Vallon di Bardoney (Walk 2)

The characteristic moraines, usually chaotic ridges of debris transported by the ice and deposited at its sides or front, are useful in determining the history of the area: bare moraine probably dates back to the last mini-ice age, a mere 300 years ago. On average, 5000 years must pass before such a ridge can be colonised by vegetation such as the pioneer mountain avens, after preparatory work by lichens. And trees such as larch or dwarf mountain pine need even longer (15,000 years in all) before the soil is suitable for them to take root.

Naturally the glaciers themselves provide abundant meltwater so the area is rich in water courses, spectacuar waterfalls and dramatic strings of lakes of all shapes and colours. In the 1920s this abundance of water began 16 to attract hydroelectric dam builders, who were given free rein on the southern flanks to provide Torino (Turin) with the power its industries needed. This led to a considerable number of large dams, conduits and power stations, accompanied by clusters of service buildings for maintenance staff.