Vercosa

Access

Vercosa can only be reached on foot via the paths that start at Pian Coumarial and ascend the mountain towards Punta Sella and the Coda Refuge. The route is signposted and follows ancient mule tracks used by shepherds and villagers in their daily activities; on the way, crossing cool streams and grassy glades, you will come across characteristic wooden rascards and small service buildings for the alpine pastures.

The hamlet can be reached in about 35 minutes' walk from Coumarial along path 3, which can be walked in all seasons, although it is particularly suggestive during the alpine flowering period between June and July.

Introduction

The village of Vercosa is one of the smaller and less inhabited localities in the territory of the municipality of Fontainemore, located in the heart of the Lys Valley in an environment of great natural interest. Representative of the area's high-altitude rural settlements, Vercosa is located at an altitude of about 1,597 metres and still preserves the typical appearance of the Valle d'Aosta mountain pasture, with buildings in stone and wood, evidence of a long agro-pastoral tradition that has been preserved to this day.

Description

Set amidst beech and larch forests on the edge of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve, the village is a transit point for numerous hiking itineraries and is particularly well known for its proximity to the summer pastures, where herds are still herded and raw milk cheeses are made according to local tradition. The surrounding environment is characterised by biodiversity; depending on the season, one can observe marmots, chamois and, in clear skies, golden eagles, as well as a rich variety of alpine flora including rhododendrons, blueberries and gentians.
From a historical point of view, Vercosa is one of the localities that were once used mainly during the summer months for agro-pastoral activities; today it is an interesting destination for those who wish to discover the authentic face of the Aosta Valley mountains, immersed in Alpine silence and far from the main tourist circuits. The village, like many others in the area, preserves tales of ancient families and anecdotes, often linked to the harsh conditions of life at altitude and the people's ability to adapt to the mountain environment.
Vercosa does not offer accommodation facilities but is a place that allows the visitor an authentic immersion in the traditions of the mid-mountain Valle d'Aosta, ideal for a stop along the itineraries towards Punta Sella, Lake Goudin or the Coda Refuge. From here you can enjoy a privileged view of the valley below and observe the slow change of the landscape as the seasons change. The visit is especially recommended for hikers and those seeking peace and quiet, contact with nature and ethnographic interest. Respect for the rules of access to the pastures and care in walking out of season are essential so as not to disturb the traditional activities still alive in the hamlet.