Issime is a splendid village located in the heart of Gressoney Valley, also known as Valle del Lys, in Valle d'Aosta. Site just under 1000 meters above sea level, it is possible to discover this location surrounded by natural greenery, at the foot of Mont Néry, between meadows and woods that make this area a favorite with tourists, both Italians and foreigners.
What to do in Issime
There are many activities in which you can try your hand at Issime. It is a real paradise for fans of the trekking, eg. There is certainly no shortage of areas in which to try your hand at excursions, from those within everyone's reach to other far more demanding ones.
One of the most popular routes is undoubtedly the one in San Grato valley, in the direction of the Colle di Dondeuil. Nature reigns supreme, even if along the path, through the mountain pastures, it is possible to identify traces of the passage of man, admiring various Stradel, or the typical buildings of the area.
In addition to a visit to the Lys stream, which gives the Valley its name, it is possible to go near the Orrido di Guillemore. Here is located it Guillemore barrage, which gives life to a fascinating artificial lake, much appreciated by sport fishing enthusiasts, as well as by those in search of absolute relaxation.
It is very easy to be able to alternate exciting excursions with walks in characteristic villages of the area. Real jewels perfectly preserved, among markets, churches, shops and local experts in typical cuisine.
More experienced trekkers can also reach the Hill of the Wolf, following the Alta Via 1, through the magnificent Tourrison Valley. Much more relaxing, however, is the area of Lillianes, with its small beach located on the river Lys.
Ski slopes
Issime is the ideal base for those wishing to attend the ski resorts of the area. Many decide to enjoy the beauties of the place, and then reach the municipality of Gaby, which offers two routes, easy (6800 meters) and medium distance (7500 meters). The second begins in the hamlet of Tzendelabò, and then continues southwards, reaching Rickard, in the territory of Issime.
What to see in Issime
Impossible not to recommend the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore among the places to be appreciated in this splendid village. Its most recognizable element is undoubtedly the fresco that embellishes the facade, depicting the Last Judgment. In the external section there are also fifteen chapels, decorated with the mysteries of the rosary. Inside, however, there is space for an altar dating back to 1600, entirely in carved wood, with gold inlays.
The chapels of the village are fascinating, open to the public only on certain days of the year. The highest in Issime, located at 2007 meters, is the Madonna of the Snows, in the locality of Muhnes. There is also the chapel of Santa Margherita, in the San Grato valley. This continues to attract tourists above all for its link with the famous "trial the devil".
Legend has it that after the 1600 earthquake an attempt was made to drive out the "evil one", considered responsible for the tragic event. A real trial began, with two priests summoned to the place, ready to pronounce the exorcisms of the rite. The story tells that the dialogue between the religious and the devil lasted three days, at the end of which the area was liberated. The locals, keeping to their vote, decided to erect the chapel in honor of Santa Margherita on the spot.
