Chamois: the car-free Village where the mountains are Still Real
Chamois: the car-free Village where the mountains are still real
In the heart of the Aosta Valley, perched high on a rocky ledge and cradled between forests and sky, lies a hidden gem: Chamois, the only municipality in Italy completely inaccessible by car.
No traffic. No honking horns.
Just silence.
The crunch of footsteps on snow in winter—or on grass in summer.
And the pure, pine-scented air of the Alps.
Chamois is a dream destination for travelers seeking an authentic mountain escape, where time slows down and the views look straight out of a postcard
How to Get to Chamois (No Cars Allowed!)
You can’t drive to Chamois—and that’s the beauty of it.
To reach the village, you must arrive in Buisson, a hamlet of Antey-Saint-André (in the Valtournenche valley), where the Buisson–Chamois cable car operates year-round.
From Cervinia or Valtournenche:
About 25–30 minutes by car along the scenic SR46 road towards Aosta.
Turn off toward Buisson, where you’ll find free and easy parking at the cable car station.
Buisson–Chamois Cable Car Info (Summer 2025)
Duration: ~5 minutes
Round-trip fare:
Adults: €5.80
Children: €3.00
Free for kids under 6
Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Every 30 minutes (more frequent in high season)
Prefer hiking?
Adventurous travelers can hike up via Trail 107 from Antey-Saint-André—a medium-difficulty path through woods and alpine views.
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Altitude gain: Significant, but rewarding
Arrival altitude: 1,800 meters
What to Do in Chamois
This village is small, pure, and special.
You won’t need screens—just open eyes and an open heart.
Scenic Walks: Easy trails to Lago di Lod (45 mins on foot, or just 2–3 mins by chairlift).
Trekking & MTB: Forest paths, alpine meadows, and epic views of Monte Cervino (Matterhorn).
Total relaxation: Read in the sun, enjoy long lunches, or have a slice of cake with a mountain backdrop.
Where to Eat in Chamois
Expect hearty, homemade meals made with local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Chez Pierina – Cozy, authentic, and family-run. Don’t miss their polenta concia and grandma’s soups.
Bar Ristorante Da Bruna – Genuine Aostan cuisine with breathtaking views.
Maison Cly – Elegant alpine setting for a gourmet lunch or dinner.
L’Aiglon – A perfect stop after a lakeside hike.
What to Buy in Chamois
Support local artisans and farmers—buy authentic Aosta Valley specialties:
Handcrafted cured meats like mocetta and lardo d’Arnad
High-mountain honey
Carved wood and locally woven wool items
Why Chamois is So Special
Chamois is a pause.
A breath of fresh air for those who need silence, green spaces, and deep breathing.
It’s a living village, to be walked, admired, and loved.
Perfect for a slow travel experience you’ll never forget.
Ready to disconnect and rediscover the real mountains?
Chamois is waiting for you.