The Valle d’Aosta (Aosta Valley in English) is Italy’s smallest region. Aosta Valley sightseeing is focused on outdoor alpine activities. During the summer months it is a hiking and fishing destination. During the winter months it is a popular skiing destination.
Its winters are quite cold. With Medieval castles and beautiful valleys set among the highest peaks in the Alps, this region is a high altitude oasis with panoramas of incomparable beauty.
Aosta Valley Location
The Aosta valley is located in northwestern Italy above Italy’s Piedmont region.
The Aosta Valley is located at the foot of Mt Blanc.
The region’s international borders include Switzerland to its north and France to the west.
Given its altitude and the fact that the mountains block any sea air from getting into the valley, it is Italy’s coldest region.
Aosta Valley Travel Guide Video
For more information about planning a trip watch the Aosta Valley travel guide video below.
Aosta Valley Travel Guide Map
Aosta Valley Sightseeing Highlights
Travelers to the Valle d’Aosta will find Italian and French are both official languages. Located on France’s border, notable wines include two white wines from Morgex (Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle and Chaudelune), a red wine blend from Arvier (Enfer d’Arvier), and a Gamay.
Each year in May the Giro d’Italia typically rides through the mountains of the Aosta Valley.
For mountain enthusiasts summertime brings hiking, nature watching, and splendid views. And during the winter the area attracts skiers worldwide who want to ski the highest peaks in Europe, including Mont Blanc.
Aosta
Ancient Roman town, today it is the capital of the Valle d’Aosta region. Remnants of Aosta’s Roman past include the Arch of Augustus and the Praetorian Gate, once the city’s main entrance. In the Sant’Orso complex are a Romanesque cloister and a priory with a frescoed chapel.
Pila ski resort is located 20 minutes away by gondola.
Also close is Gran Paradiso National Park, which has an alpine botanical garden, trails and wildlife like ibexes and eagles.
Courmayeur
Courmayeur is the most people ski resort in the region. It boasts over 100 miles of ski trails. Its trails are known for being long and range from expert to beginner. During the summertime the area may be hiked. And the town is always fun to stroll.
Aosta Castles
The Aosta Valley is also popular for travelers who want to visit castles. The typical Aosta Valley castle itinerary includes castle Sarriod de la Tour at Saint-Pierre, castle of Sarre, castle of Fénis, castle of Issogne, Savoy castle at Gressoney-Saint-Jean, Gamba castle at Châtillon, and castle of Verrès. These castles set among the mountains make Aosta sightseeing magical.
For more information and guided vacations to northern Italy check out the Northern Italy tour packages page.
For more information about planning a trip to Italy check out the ItalianTourism.us Italy travel guide.
