The Alpine village of Challand-Saint-Victor is situated in the Valle d'Aosta region in the north-west Italy. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and many of the best Italian skiing resorts, Challand-Saint-Victor is popular with those who enjoy both winter sports and summer activities, like hiking and cycling. Although there are no ski runs in the immediate area around Challand-Saint-Victor, you are not far from the main resorts and the village is a pleasant day trip for tourists who want a break from the slopes.
The town itself has a picturesque old quarter and is set in a stunning location at nearly 800 metres in altitude among the wooded areas on the lower slopes of the Alps. There are several historic buildings within Challand-Saint-Victor, including medieval bridges and houses, along with the 15th century parish church of San Vittore. Financed by the local Counts of Challont, who give the area many of its place names, look out for the family crest carved into the doorway and the precious 15th century crucifix on the main altar. Nearby are the ruins of Villa Castle, a 14th century defensive fortress. Little of the building is still standing, though one of the main watchtowers can still be seen on the hilltop from miles around.
There are dozens of walking and cycling trails, as well as many that are used by local equestrian centres, allowing visitors to explore the Alpine scenery around Challand-Saint-Victor, however they prefer. Villa Lake is within walking distance of the village, with the ruins of Villa Castle en route, and the area around the popular natural attraction has been a nature reserve since the 1990s. The alpine lake is home to dozens of species of animals and plants, many of which can only be found in this part of Europe.
A little further afield is Issolaz, a picturesque Alpine village, which is also home to a spectacular waterfall. Here the River Evancon is forced into a narrow channel between two rocky cliffs, creating an impressive run of waterfalls and rapids. From Issolaz there is a popular and fairly easy walking trail, which will take you to the peak of the nearby Col Dondeuil, a large hill but still dwarfed by the higher, more treacherous peaks in the surrounding region. The whole circular walk will take around five hours and offers magnificent views throughout your progress, but particularly at the peak of the Col Dondeuil.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Challand-Saint-Victor? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Challand-Saint-Victor and villas in Challand-Saint-Victor that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
