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Valleys and bases

A number of long steep-sided valleys push their way towards the heart of the Gran Paradiso, providing fortuitous access for visitors. Nearly all the valleys are inhabited and have good tourist facilities in the shape of accommodation (hotels, camping grounds and high altitude mountain rifugi- see Accommodation) and tourist information offices. What's more, they can all be reached by public bus (see Local Transport). Beginning in the north and the Valle d'Aosta, minor Valle di Champorcher turns in west from Hône-Bard, gaining height to reach Chardonney, where Alta Via 2 sets out.

Forking south at Aymavilles, close to the regional capital of Aosta, the most important of the valleys is undeniably the Vallon di Cogne and its well-kept settlements. A pasture basin is home to the former mining centre of Cogne, while the sister villages of Lillaz, Valnontey and Gimillan are located a few kilometres away. Tiny Valnontey is arguably the best placed, not far from the Tribolazione glacier and its crown of beautiful peaks. Vallon di Cogne is a key transit point for the Alta Via 2 and the starting point for Walks 1 to 9.