The Ayasse

Few visitors know its name. Yet it was the Ayasse that carved out the Champorcher valley. The torrent comes down from the mountains separating this valley from Cogne, then joins the Dora Baltea at Hône, in the lower valley. The valley has stayed off the main tourist routes, and that is its charm.

Clear, lively water, full of trout

The Ayasse is home to brown trout and many aquatic insects. These species need clean, cool water: their presence shows the torrent is healthy. Larches and spruces grow on the banks; higher up, alpine meadows burst into flower in spring and summer.

Mills, sawmills and power stations

For centuries, people harnessed the torrent’s power. Grain mills, sawmills and forges stood by the water; some have been restored and show how life used to be. In the 20th century, dams and penstocks were built to produce electricity. They changed the torrent’s course but also brought income to the region.

Trails, lakes and fishing in the Ayas valley

Waymarked trails lead from the forests to the summer pastures. Fit walkers head up to the high lakes, the best known being Lake Miserin, below the Fenêtre de Champorcher, with wide views over the peaks. Mountain bikers find routes of every level, and anglers come for the fine brown trout.

A torrent to protect near Mont-Avic

Part of the upper valley lies in the Mont Avic Nature Park. With more and more visitors, strict rules protect plants and wildlife, and everyone is shown how to limit their impact, to keep the torrent clean and its banks unspoilt.

Maps: personal work by Marc Badjou.