Saint Anne Trail

The Saint Anne Trail is one of the most scenic and popular hikes in the Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche area. The route leads to the green pastures of Alpe Promindoz, at an altitude of 2,390 metres, where the charming votive chapel of Saint Anne Notre Dame de la Garde, also known as the Pope's Chapel, stands.

This place holds special significance for the people of the valley, as Pope Saint John Paul II stopped here to pray during his summer stays in the Aosta Valley. Today, the chapel is an ideal destination for those wishing to combine a pleasant panoramic walk with a place rich in history, spirituality and Alpine tradition.

Along the trail, hikers cross wide high-altitude pastures, historic alpine farms and beautiful viewpoints offering spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the Grandes Murailles range and the mountains surrounding Valtournenche.

The Route

There are several ways to reach the Chapel of Saint Anne.

From Perrères, follow trail no. 18, which retraces the ancient paths once used by local residents to reach the high-altitude alpine pastures and mountain huts. The hike takes approximately 2 hours along an easy route, suitable for families with children.

Alternatively, you can take the Valtournenche–Salette gondola lift and continue on foot along trails no. 107 and no. 65 (the J.A. Carrel Trail), significantly reducing the elevation gain.

From Breuil-Cervinia, in the Cielo Alto area, follow trail no. 17, which starts near the old bobsleigh track. After approximately one hour of walking along a scenic and easy route, the trail joins trail no. 18 coming from Perrères.

Highlights

• The Chapel of Saint Anne Notre Dame de la Garde.
• Panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the Grandes Murailles.
• The historic alpine pastures of Alpe Promindoz.
• The peaceful atmosphere of the high-altitude meadows.
• The traces and memories of Pope Saint John Paul II's visits.

Useful Information

Arrival altitude: 2,390 m
Difficulty: Easy / Hiking
Recommended period: June to October
Ideal for: Families, hikers, nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.