Issime: Walser Culture, Architecture and Trails in the Lys Valley
Accommodation in Issime
Issime lies in the middle of the Lys Valley at an altitude of 953 metres, on a plain between green meadows and forests at the foot of Mont NĂ©ry. Two themes particularly define the area for visitors: the Walser language and architecture, and trails through the valley and along the Lys. If you are looking for a hotel in Issime, you can plan your stay around whether you are most interested in cultural history, summer crafts or hiking trails. The places and routes below offer specific suggestions.
Walser Language and Architecture
Töitschu is still spoken in Issime today. The dialect has clear Germanic roots and was passed down by the Walser people. Töitschu links present-day language practices with the Walser culture passed down through generations.
Casa Alby, now called Bastrenta, is a Maison del Pouhrta in Issime. The family associated with it has been documented there since the 15th century. The house name, architectural classification and family history offer a specific point of reference for local architectural history. The Issime area also has numerous stadels; some of the most interesting ones are in the Vallone di San Grato.
A description last updated in 2021 states that visitors can see underground archaeological excavations of the original building at the Museo parrocchiale di Issime. These are the remains of an early Christian funerary basilica dating to the 5th century. Check current visitor arrangements before your visit.
The Circular Trail in the Vallone di San Grato
A circular trail runs through the Vallone di San Grato. It starts at the San Grato chapel, takes in the valley’s cultural heritage and reaches the chapel of Mühni, located at 2,000 metres and dedicated to the Madonna delle Nevi. Some of Issime’s most interesting stadels are also in the valley. The upper part of the valley has been used as summer pasture for many centuries. Sacred sites, historic architectural forms and a long tradition of farming can be found side by side here.
More Trails Around Issime
An easy unpaved trail follows the banks of the Lys from Issime to Gaby. There is an equipped picnic area along the way. Check trail conditions locally before setting out. On the Issime–Hurllji route, the climb passes close to the chapel of the Grotta di SS. Agonia; the more scenic section begins after that.
The 90-kilometre Monte Rosa WalserWaeg follows trails and crosses mountain passes through the municipalities of Gaby and Issime. Check seasonal trail conditions before setting out on this route. The trails can be distinguished by their described characteristics: the trail to Gaby is easy, unpaved and follows the Lys, while the Monte Rosa WalserWaeg is notable for its 90-kilometre length and the trails and passes through Gaby and Issime.
Summer Crafts and Getting There
The Eischem Mert takes place every summer. It showcases Issime’s local craft tradition, with works and products made from wood, stone, wicker, textiles and other materials, as well as typical products from the Aosta Valley. Dates and programme details may change. Check the latest event information if you are planning your visit around the market.
The “Pont-Saint-Martin–Gressoney” bus route is listed as a connection to Issime; the journey is stated to take about half an hour. Check the current timetable and service for your travel dates before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Saint Jacques, Lillianes, Pontboset, Arnad, Torgnon, Arvier, Charvensod, La Salle.
Go to the main travel overview: Aosta Valley.
