Best waterfalls around Aussois are found within the Maurienne Valley, a region known for its alpine landscapes and natural features. Aussois offers a variety of waterfalls, many of which are accessible via popular hiking trails. The area's geography provides diverse terrain for exploration, from easily reachable cascades to more challenging routes to waterfalls. These natural attractions contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
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Imposing waterfalls and easily accessible from the refuge
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waterfall behind Scarfiotti refuge
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Arrival Scarfiotti refuge, finally fresh 🙃
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I had already been to the Scarfiotti Refuge about ten years ago. It was nice to go back. It is in a beautiful valley surrounded by waterfalls and lakes and of course mountains. The new management is made up of young guys, very kind and welcoming. Excellent general cleaning. We stayed overnight in the shared dormitory - we requested a sheet bag - but being a Friday night it was just us. Abundant breakfast as well as a very abundant dinner, which was welcome because we had arrived by pedaling. Ideal place for an overnight stay and for the subsequent departure towards Sommeiller, but also as a stop for a lunch. Excellent and recommended.
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On the way up or down the Col de Sommeiller you will pass Rifugio Scarfiotti where you can enjoy a snack and a drink.
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A bucolic place with its pond and waterfall behind. I must say that the cuisine didn't enthuse me the last time I went up there (August 2022) but not stopping here is a crime
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The icing on the cake...behind the Refuge
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Nice refuge located between the Rochemolles dam and the pian dei morti
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Visitors frequently enjoy the Waterfalls Behind Rifugio Scarfiotti, known for their refreshing steam effect on windy days. The Waterfalls in Vanoise National Park also offer beautiful views, with the experience varying by season. For those seeking a unique challenge, the Lac de Luitel and Frozen Waterfall is a notable spot.
These imposing cascades are easily accessible from the Rifugio Scarfiotti. On windy days, the water bounces off the rocks, creating a refreshing mist or 'steam' that cools those nearby, offering a unique sensation. The refuge itself is in a beautiful valley surrounded by waterfalls, lakes, and mountains, making it a welcoming stop for snacks or even an overnight stay.
The Saint-Benoît waterfall is very accessible, visible directly from the D215 road, which is part of the Esseillon Forts tourist route. You can also walk to its base, where it forms a small stream, perfect for cooling off or a picnic during summer. It plunges 90 meters, offering a spectacular view.
Yes, the Waterfalls Behind Rifugio Scarfiotti are considered family-friendly and easily accessible. The Saint-Benoît waterfall also offers an easy walk to its base, suitable for families looking for a refreshing spot.
The summer months are ideal for visiting, as the waterfalls are at their fullest and the refreshing mist is particularly welcome. The Saint-Benoît waterfall, fed by the Plan d'Aval dam, is especially impressive then. However, the Vanoise National Park offers beautiful views of flowing water depending on the season and weather, and some unique experiences like the frozen waterfall at Lac de Luitel are best in winter for those prepared for challenging conditions.
The Lac de Luitel and Frozen Waterfall is considered challenging. It's suitable for those who enjoy scrambling and are comfortable with conditions like black ice. It is not recommended for children or less fit hikers who may experience dizziness or unsteadiness. Good weather is essential for this trail.
Yes, the Polset Waterfalls, nestled at 1850 meters in the Polset valley, are accessible only on foot. A hike from the hamlet of Polset towards the lake allows visitors to admire magnificent panoramas and potentially spot local wildlife like chamois or marmots.
The Aussois area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore mountain hikes, with routes like the Plan d'Amont Reservoir loop. For cyclists, there are MTB trails and road cycling routes, some of which pass by scenic points near waterfalls.
Around the waterfalls, you can expect to see diverse alpine landscapes, including lakes and mountains. The Vanoise National Park, where some waterfalls are located, is known for its natural beauty. Near the Polset Waterfalls, hikers might spot local wildlife such as chamois or marmots amidst magnificent panoramas.
Visitors appreciate the refreshing experience, especially the unique sensation of the mist from the Waterfalls Behind Rifugio Scarfiotti. The accessibility of some waterfalls, like Saint-Benoît, and the opportunities for picnics and cooling off are also highly valued. The overall natural beauty and the chance to combine waterfall visits with hiking or cycling in the Maurienne Valley are major draws.
Many waterfalls themselves offer spectacular viewpoints, such as the 'dizzying' view of the Saint-Benoît waterfall. The area around Rifugio Scarfiotti provides a beautiful valley setting with views of waterfalls, lakes, and mountains. Hiking to the Polset Waterfalls also rewards visitors with magnificent panoramas.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Aussois: