Arlaz Waterfall

Introduction

The Arlaz waterfall is located in the municipality of Challand-Saint-Victor, nestled in the woods of Valle d'Aosta, along the ancient canal of the same name. This spectacular waterfall is a perfect example of the wild beauty of the Alps, easily accessible but immersed in an unspoilt natural setting. Challand-Saint-Victor is located at an altitude of about 750 metres, in a strategic position between the Ayas Valley and the central valley of the Dora Baltea. The village overlooks the mid-valley, with a privileged view of the surrounding mountains and Alpine pastures, offering a landscape that harmoniously combines the presence of broadleaf and coniferous forests with rocky walls that outline the orography of the region. The waterfall is located along the Ru d'Arlaz, an ancient irrigation canal that represents one of the most interesting historical hydraulic works in Valle d'Aosta, built in the Middle Ages to convey the waters of the Evançon stream towards the agricultural terraces in the area.

Description

The origin of the name Arlaz is uncertain, but it could derive from the local dialect, with possible connections to the lay of the land or to water-related traditions. The Ru d'Arlaz, whose construction probably dates back to the 13th century, testifies to the ingenuity and ability of the valley's inhabitants to adapt to the Alpine environment, exploiting natural resources for agriculture and daily life. The Challand-Saint-Victor area has a history that is intertwined with that of the Challant seigniory, one of the most influential families in Valle d'Aosta, which ruled these lands for centuries. The castle of Villa, although now in ruins, is a symbol of their presence and rule over the region. Over the centuries, the village has maintained a strong bond with nature, developing an economy based on livestock farming and the management of water resources.
The territory of Challand-Saint-Victor is characterised by an interesting geology, with rocky outcrops modelled by erosion and the presence of ancient glacial moraines. The climate is typically Alpine, with cold, snowy winters and cool summers, ideal for excursions and outdoor activities. A curious aspect linked to the Arlaz waterfall is its legend: it is said that its waters were once inhabited by mountain spirits, who protected shepherds and travellers passing through the area. The waterfall has also been a landmark for the locals, used in the past to drive mills and other hydraulic machinery.
Reaching the Arlaz waterfall is relatively easy: you can drive to Challand-Saint-Victor, located along the Valle d'Ayas regional road, about 20 km from Verrès, a locality well connected to the A5 Turin-Aosta motorway. From here, a signposted path leads to the waterfall in about 30 minutes, with a moderate difference in altitude that is also suitable for families. Along the way, you will come across rest areas and viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the beauty of the Alpine landscape. For more experienced hikers, the trail can be combined with other itineraries that cross the woods of the area, to reach points of interest such as the Col d'Arlaz or the suggestive Lake Villa.
Among the personalities linked to the Challand-Saint-Victor area, one can mention a number of local scholars and enthusiasts of Valdostan history who have documented the traditions and cultural heritage of the region. In addition, its proximity to the Ayas Valley has made this area a transit point for explorers and mountaineers heading for the highest peaks in the Alps.
Information on the Arlaz waterfall and the village of Challand-Saint-Victor has been reported in several hiking guides, including those of the Italian Alpine Club and local publications on the Aosta Valley. In addition, articles and historical studies on the construction of the region's medieval irrigation canals provide an interesting perspective on the hydraulic works that have characterised the Alpine landscape and that still bear witness to the ingenuity of mountain communities.