What You Need to Know: Useful Information

The Rascard is more than just a cabin; it is a masterpiece of rural engineering and a symbol of the Walser culture – a Germanic people who settled in these high Alpine valleys centuries ago. These iconic wooden structures were designed to survive the harsh mountain climate, featuring a unique “mushroom” base of stone and wood pillars that served a dual purpose: keeping the grain dry by insulating it from ground moisture and creating an impassable barrier for rodents. Today, many of these historic buildings have been meticulously renovated into charming accommodations, allowing you to actually sleep inside a piece of history while enjoying modern comforts.

Living History in the Traditional Rascards of Val d'Ayas -

Getting There

By Car:

  • To Brusson & Champoluc: Take the A5 Highway (Torino-Aosta) and exit at Verrès. Follow the signs for the Val d'Ayas (SR45). You will reach Brusson first (about 20 minutes from the exit), and continuing further up the valley for another 15 minutes will bring you to Champoluc.

By Train:

  • Take the train to the Verrès station (on the Torino-Aosta line). Since there is no rail service into the mountains, you will need to transfer to a bus from here. Check schedules on Trenitalia.com.

By Bus:

  • From the Verrès station, board the VITA bus line heading toward “Ayas/Champoluc.”
  • For Brusson: Get off at the main village stop.
  • For Champoluc: Stay on until the end of the line.
  • Pro-Tip: Always check the schedules on the VDA Transport website or app, as buses in the mountains can be less frequent on Sundays and holidays.

Below you'll find the location marked on Google Maps. Click on it to open the location directly on your device's maps.

Useful Contacts

To find renovated Rascards for your stay or to book a guided architectural tour, contact the local experts:

  • Val d'Ayas Tourism Office (Champoluc):
  • Brusson Tourism Office:
    • Phone: +39 0125 300240

What to Bring & Pro-Tips

  • Cash: Essential for small mountain huts or local cheese shops where you might stop during your walks.
  • Photography: Keep your camera ready! The contrast between the dark, ancient wood of the Rascards and the bright white glaciers of the Monte Rosa massif is breathtaking.
  • Comfortable clothes: Bring sturdy walking shoes for exploring the cobblestone hamlets. Even in summer, bring a warm sweater or light jacket; once the sun dips behind the peaks, the temperature in the Val d'Ayas drops quickly.
Living History in the Traditional Rascards of Val d'Ayas -

The “Hidden Gem“

For a truly immersive step back in time, hike from Champoluc to the tiny, car-free village of Mascognaz. This hidden hamlet is a perfectly preserved cluster of 14th-century Rascards tucked away in a high mountain meadow. It offers a silent, magical atmosphere where you can see the “mushroom” pillars up close and feel the authentic spirit of the ancient Walser pioneers.