Discover Villeneuve

Villeneuve has a strong historical focus, with Châtel-Argent and the old church of Santa Maria. At the same time, there are options ranging from trails to historic buildings and a stage of the Cammino Balteo to walks and activities along the Dora Baltea.

Châtel-Argent and Santa Maria

Châtel-Argent is strategically located and controlled the important route to the Great St Bernard Pass. The present-day structure probably dates from the late 13th century and was rebuilt around 1275. Its connection with the pass route explains the site’s historical importance in Villeneuve.

At the foot of the medieval castle stands the Romanesque old church of Santa Maria. Its semicircular crypt dates from the 11th century, and important frescoes from the 13th to 16th centuries have been preserved. Excavations also uncovered the remains of an early Christian church and its baptismal font. Santa Maria therefore brings together several historical layers: the early Christian remains predate the crypt, while the frescoes are from later centuries.

Trails with different character

The “Vivre Châtel-Argent” loop trail follows green paths to the Romanesque church of Santa Maria, the keep, and the 12th-century chapel of Santa Colomba. The 17th stage of the Cammino Balteo offers a different kind of route: it runs from Villeneuve to Aymavilles and is 12.294 kilometres long. This stage includes a panoramic trail known as the “sentiero delle farfalle” (butterfly trail), which passes through a gallery beneath a waterfall.

The trails differ in their focus: the loop trail leads to historical sites, while the Cammino stage runs between two towns and has a specified length. If you are especially interested in historic buildings and religious art, the stops on the loop trail are relevant; the stage, by contrast, offers a named panoramic path and a described section beneath a waterfall.

Dora Baltea: walking trail and watersports

At the entrance to Villeneuve is a landscaped riverside park with a children’s playground. From there, a walking trail suitable for pushchairs follows the Dora Baltea to the sports area. On the river at Villeneuve, outdoor enthusiasts can try rafting, kayaking, or hydrospeed with qualified instructors. The riverside area therefore offers different options: a walk along the riverbank or activities on the water. Watersports providers and availability may change.

Visiting and getting there

Visitor information for 2026 lists the Châtel-Argent complex as accessible year-round. You can visit independently with a multilingual explanatory brochure, available at the chalet in the car park at the entrance to the town. The organisation of guided visits may vary by season. If you are planning a guided visit, check the seasonal arrangements in advance.

The “Aosta–Courmayeur” line is listed as a bus connection between Aosta and Villeneuve. Check the current timetable before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Verrès, Verrand, Fénis Ao, Challand-Saint-Anselme, Arvier, Allein, Émarèse, Courmayeur

Back to the main travel overview: Aosta Valley.