All downhill from here
Memories of the Via Francigena - July/ August 2008
Grand St Bernard Pass - Gignod - Aosta - Nus
“So it took us 7 hours to climb to 2,500m one day. The next day it took us 1 and a half hours to descend the same distance, as we entered Italy and the Valle d’Aoste. The walking has been mainly on paths by canals, streams and through villages. Last night we stayed at Gignod in a small hotel with views overlooking the valley with villages strewn down its path. We are already finding that food and accommodation is cheaper on this side of the mountains.
Some highlights
Leaving St Bernard Pass and crossing the border into Italy on a misty morning
Descending from St Bernard Pass on a mountain track. Across the valley on the right the St Bernard Tunnel.
Gignod. Hotel Bellevue : La Maison de Pierre with Ristorante/Pizzeria
With accompanying views
Walking towards Aosta
We have just wandered into the large historic town of Aosta, where we intend to investigate the Roman ruins and the Saturday markets before moving south and spending the night in Nus.
Entering Aosta
A regional centre and an important historical town because of its location
It is quite the quintessential northern town with Roman ruins interspersed with public buildings. It has a classic central piazza and there were bridal parties emerging from their civil ceremonies in the Town Hall. There were beautifully dressed families parading around on the cobbled streets.
A rain-drenched stretch before reaching Nus
Our hotel in Nus, Hotel Dujany. Cheap and with a restaurant.
We have covered 125 kms of the Via Francigena route so far.”
M&M
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