Verrayes circuit arboretum Abbé P.L. Vescoz

In the heart of the Aosta Valley, hidden among the mountains, lies a true jewel of nature: the “Abbé P.L.Vescoz” Arboretum in Verrayes.
Founded in the early 20th century by Canon Vescoz, a local cleric, scholar, scientist and geologist, this arboretum represents the first reforestation experiment in the Aosta Valley and remains the oldest of its kind in the region.
History and Vision of the Arboretum Origins Established between 1905 and 1908 on barren land purchased at great financial sacrifice, the arboretum was pioneering in its intent to introduce exotic species into an alpine environment.
Canon Vescoz planted more than 11,000 trees on an area of 12 hectares, including non-native varieties such as cedars, douglas firs, cypresses, giant sequoias, and black pines, as well as native species such as beech and mountain pine.
Objectives and Achievements The arboretum was created with the intention of exploring the adaptability of nonnative tree species to the harsh climate of the Aosta Valley.
Today, the area is a forest complex of high naturalistic, botanical and scientific interest, offering an incredible diversity of flora in a uniquely alpine setting.
Visiting the Arboretum Routes and Information For visitors, the arboretum has been accessible since 1995 and features three information shelters that offer detailed maps, directions on the various trails to explore, and suggestions on the most scenic areas.
Each trail is marked to guide tourists through different sections of the forest, allowing them to discover the rich biodiversity and special features of the site.
Best Time to Visit Spring is the ideal time to visit the Arboretum, when the awakening of nature transforms the place into an explosion of colors and scents.
During this time, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the flower species and the aromatic scent of thyme that permeates the air.
Significance and Impact The “Abbé P.L.Vescoz” Arboretum is not only a place of aesthetic beauty; it is also an important testimony to scientific research and respect for nature.
Canon Vescoz’s vision continues to educate and inspire, demonstrating how thoughtful and respectful interventions can enrich and preserve the natural environment.