Step off the beaten track and discover this unique corner of Italy. With it's snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and rich history, Aosta Valley promises to leave you spellbound.
Walking in the Aosta Valley
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a leisurely stroller, the Aosta Valley is a walking wonderland that has something for everyone. This region is famous for its stunning landscapes, charming mountain villages, and friendly locals. Known as the ‘Rome’ of the Alps, this region packs a punch with its rich history and culture, boasting impressive Roman ruins and countless castles that will leave you in awe.
But that’s not all, the locals here are true culinary masters, this is Italy after all, crafting delectable dishes using natural alpine ingredients that range from hearty and rustic to Michelin-star worthy.
For the adventure seekers out there, Aosta Valley is a mecca for outdoor activities. With four of the highest peaks in the Alps, including Mont Blanc (4,810m), Matterhorn (4,478m), Monte Rosa (4,634 ,) and Gran Paradiso (4,061 m), towering over the valley, you’ll have endless opportunities for exploration.
Plus, with convenient access from major cities like Geneva, Turin, and Milan (within two hours), you’ll be perfectly situated to explore as much or as little as you like.
Where is the Aosta Valley?
Tucked away in the gorgeous Alps of Northwest Italy lies the Aosta Valley - one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Sandwiched between France and Switzerland, with Piedmont to the South and East, this region offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and authentic Italian charm. Unlike other tourist hotspots, the Aosta Valley remains unspoiled by the masses, allowing you to truly connect with the friendly locals.
For the active
If you're an adventurous walker (akin to Indiana Jones), you'll find the best trails in Cervinia and Champoluc. These two destinations offer lots of thrilling walks, allowing you to discover new paths and uncover unexpected treasures along the way. Great walks are made of surprises, so be prepared for the unexpected when exploring these incredible destinations in the Aosta Valley.
Cervinia, in particular, is the perfect playground for thrill-seekers offering summer skiing, high-altitude walking, and downhill mountain biking. The Monte Rosa and Matterhorn regions are a walker’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for exploration at every turn.
If you're looking to take things down a notch and bask in the glory of Mother Nature without breaking too much of a sweat, then Champoluc is the perfect destination. This sun-drenched valley is surrounded by breath-taking views and postcard-worthy landscapes that will leave you feeling like you've stumbled into a fairy tale.
For the ones needing relaxing
The Aosta Valley caters to both the zen seekers and the get up and goers. As the saying goes, ‘Life is about balance’. And this region offers just that.
For those seeking tranquil escape, take a leisurely stroll through the lush landscapes and inhale the crisp mountain air. The vibrant colours, breath-taking scenery, and rich flora and fauna will be a treat for the senses.
But for the adventurous and daring, the valley offers challenging trails which will push you to go further and higher. With rocky, high-altitude terrain and water-side paths, you’ll need sturdy walking boots to conquer these routes.
And after a day of outdoor activity, indulge in one of the region’s many spa and wellness options. From natural hot springs to luxurious spas, you’ll find the perfect way to unwind and recharge.
Uncover it's surprising history
Aosta Valley is home to some of the most beautiful historic sites in the Alps. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Aosta Valley’s rich history through its ancient monuments and castles, including the Arch of Augustus, Porta Praetoria, Roman Theatre, and city walls.
With over 100 castles scattered across the valley, you can discover the region’s past while exploring the towers and fortified structures along the historical alpine routes.
There are also two religious masterpieces that are a must-see. The Aosta Cathedral and Church and Cloister of Sant’Orso Collegiate - both with amazing architecture and beautiful romanesque sculptures.
If you fancy a road trip, then the charming small villages of the region, like La Salle, Fénis, Gressan, Arnad, Bard, and Saint-Pierre are definitely worth a visit. Each offering unique crafts, food and cultural traditions.
The appetising side of Aosta Valley
Indulge in Aosta Valley’s culture through its mouth-watering traditional flavours. From the well loved Fontina and Fromadzo cheeses to the region's fresh fruit, bread, honey, herbs, grappa, and of course, Italian wine - you’ll be spoiled for choice.
With over 200 types of cheese, the most prized being the DOP Fontina, treasured by cheese lovers and chefs alike for its taste, texture, and meltability, you’ll taste buds will be in for a treat.
And for wine connoisseurs, the Aosta Valley wine trail offers a unique experience of the region’s wines, although you might have to fight off the locals for a sip or two, since they’re not widely exported.
Take a rewarding holiday on the green side
Take a step towards a green and rewarding walking holiday. With a commitment to sustainability and preserving the natural beauty of the region, you can feel good about taking in all the breath-taking scenery and cultural heritage.
And if you’re really looking to unplug and unwind, head to the car-free village of Chamois. Here, you can leave behind the hustle and bustle of the modern world and immerse yourself in a serene and unspoiled landscape.
