Overview
At an altitude of over 1300 metres, set amid mountain peaks, woods and pastures, Brusson is a part of the Ayas Valley where you can find some fabulous mountain trails. Located in a spot with excellent exposure to the sun, it's delightful in summer but also ideal for winter sports, thanks to the ski lifts and long cross-country routes starting from Estoul, which you can reach by car at the top of the village. From Estoul, stunning views and landscapes await at the Palasinaz Lakes, after a 2.5 hour walk along the signposted trails numbered 5 and 4. If you are keen to try the whole route, remember that the altitude difference is almost 700 metres. Sightings of marmots and eagles are practically guaranteed, but with a bit of luck you will also spot the chamois or ibex.
The historical side of Brusson includes an ascent to Graines Castle, just to the south of the town. There's also the ex-gold mine of Chamousira, which is a great place to visit, especially in summer. The mine was still active until the late 1980s and was then redeveloped to reveal an exciting underground world.
Did we forget something? Of course, the cheeses from the local dairy. And every other summer, alternating with Gressoney, Brusson hosts a knock-out round of the "Bataille des Reines", a bloodless fight between cows to find out which is "queen" of the year. The final event, of course, takes place in Aosta.
