The morning hike leads to the Col du Basset… a climb of almost 1,200 metres (or 400 metres less with the chairlift)! From the top of the Arpalle chairlift, follow the ‘Col du Basset’ signs on the left. The path crosses the old Alpage de la Fouly and becomes steep and winding in the final section. Chamois, ibexes and marmots make you forget how tired you are, and the panoramic views fill you with wonder…
From here, a beautiful descent awaits us through the Combe de l’A (a magnificent nature reserve) to the Tsissette refuge.
The Combe de l’A nature reserve, in the commune of Liddes, is a vast and intimate area in the heart of the Grand-Saint-Bernard region.
This Alpine paradise, situated at an altitude of between 1400 and 3000 metres, offers enthusiastic hikers and contemplative tourists not only exceptional flora and fauna, but also an atmosphere where nature is affirmed as an ancestral way of life. The diversity of Alpine biotopes at different altitudes allows numerous animal species to thrive and survive.
The Combe de l’A is home to large game such as red deer, chamois, roe deer and ibex, as well as smaller mammals such as foxes, badgers and marmots. Golden eagles, goshawks and ravens roam freely in the air. A footpath allows hikers to move around without disturbing the surrounding wildlife, while enjoying the privilege of seeing them.
The Combe de l’A is home to large game such as red deer, chamois, roe deer and ibex, as well as smaller mammals such as foxes, badgers and marmots. Golden eagles, goshawks and ravens roam freely in the air. A path allows hikers to move around without disturbing the surrounding wildlife, while enjoying the privilege of seeing it evolve freely. Along the way, educational panels provide a wealth of information on the geological and botanical features of the region.
Following the murmur of the Ruisseau de l’A, you reach the Gîte de la Tsissette, a stage on the Tour du Saint-Bernard. This former mountain pasture has been transformed into cosy accommodation and is open from mid-June to mid-October. Hikers can stop here for a bite to eat or spend the night, and enjoy the tranquillity of the area and the many hiking possibilities. Further up the valley, at an altitude of 2350 metres, in the village of Vouasse, the municipality of Liddes has converted an old hut.
In 2004, the Swiss Foundation for Heritage and Spatial Planning completely rebuilt the building using traditional methods and dry stone. This rural accommodation has thus retained its original features and character, and was extended in 2020.
The Combe de l’A offers us the spectacle of its unspoilt nature. We should thank it by enjoying its natural beauty.
