Bec Costazza

Introduction

Description

The Bec Costazza, also known as Bec-Cotasse, is a mountain in the Graian Alps that reaches an altitude of 3,092 metres. It is located in the Aosta Valley, between the Champorcher Valley and the Urtier Valley, south of the Fenêtre de Champorcher. 

Mountain Group:It belongs to the Rosa dei Banchi Group in the Graian Alps.

First ascent:The first documented ascent dates back to 1848 by Abbot Pierre Chanoux.

First winter ascent: There is no information available regarding the date and the protagonists of the first winter ascent.

Mountaineering history: Bec Costazza has attracted the attention of mountaineers since the 19th century, with the first ascent recorded in 1848 by Abbot Pierre Chanoux. Over the years, the mountain has become the destination of numerous expeditions, thanks to its panoramic position and the technical challenges offered by its ascent routes.

Geographical context: Located between the Champorcher valley and the Urtier valley, Bec Costazza overlooks Lake Misérin, one of the highest Alpine lakes in the area. The region is characterised by alpine landscapes with high-altitude meadows, rock outcrops and rich biodiversity. The climate is typically alpine, with cool summers and cold winters.

Cultural context: The mountain plays a significant role for local communities, both for its historical importance and for traditions related to mountaineering. The toponym 'Bec Costazza' probably derives from the local dialect, where 'Bec' means 'beak' or 'point', while 'Costazza' may refer to a morphological characteristic of the terrain.

Climbing Routes:

• Versant de Champorcher:Starting from the Dondena Refuge, you reach Lake Misérin and continue on the south-east slope of the mountain to the summit. 
Versant de Cogne:From the Sogno di Berdzé Refuge at Péradzà, you cross the Fenêtre de Champorcher and follow the ridge to the summit. 

Support points:

• Dondena Refuge: Situated at 2,192 metres, it is an ideal starting point for the ascent from the Champorcher side.
• Misérin Refuge: Situated at 2.580 metres on the shores of Lake Misérin, it offers hospitality to hikers.
• Refugio Sogno di Berdzé al Péradzà: At 2,526 metres, it is the reference point for those who tackle the ascent from the Cogne side.

Information

Table: 3092m
Alternative name: -
Mountain group:
First ascent:
First ascenders: