Dondena - Sanctuary at Misérin lake

Champorcher

  • Difficulties:
    E - Excursionist
  • Best period:
    June - September
  • Departure:
    Dondena (2096 m)
  • Arrival:
    Sanctuary at Misérin lake (2591 m)
  • Difference in level:
    495 m
  • length:
    4445 m
  • Ascent:
    1h45
  • Duration coming back:
    1h15
  • Trail sign:
    AV2 - 7 - 7B - 7C - 6
  • GPS tracks:
    GPX , KML

At 2583 meters above sea level, overlooking the clear waters of a mountain lake, stands the sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna delle Nevi, a destination every year for frequent visits and pilgrimages, among which we particularly remember the one relating to the procession on 5 August which starts from parish church of Champorcher. Legend has it that in this remote valley a Roman soldier of the Christian faith belonging to the mythical Theban legion had found refuge, having escaped a terrible massacre thanks to the protection of the Madonna of whom he always carried a statue with him. This same statue was apparently found by some shepherds on the shores of Lake Misérin during the 16th century. Built in the 17th century on the remains of a previous oratory, the sanctuary was then rebuilt in 1880 and equipped with a dormitory for pilgrims; it was then remodeled again after the damage suffered in the Second World War.


Description of the route

Just beyond the square in Champorcher, the municipal seat, take the road on the right that winds towards the village of Grand Mont Blanc and then continues along the dirt road to Dondena. Park the car, cross the stream and go up to the old royal hunting lodge, built by Victor Emmanuel II, and now in ruins, and to Dondena refuge (2192 m). A caretaker is only present during the summer months. From here, continue along the dirt road which, with a long stretch across the hillside gently climbs the wide valley, When the path starts to wind upwards, leave it and take the path on the open terrain leading to Misérin. The refuge is located near Lac Misérin, near the sanctuary of Our Lady of the Snow (Madonna delle Nevi).

Meteo
Meteo

Details
Aosta
°C
°C
Tourist Areas
Tourist Areas

Mont Blanc

Gran Paradiso

Great Saint Bernard

Aosta and surroundings

Matterhorn

Monte Rosa

Central Valley

Tourist offer
Tourist offer
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Chamois

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Champorcher

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Saint Vincent - Col de Joux

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