The Aosta Valley is located in the northwestern region of Italy, a mountainous area that is semi-autonomous. Aosta Valley is bordered to the west by Rhone-Alpes, France and Valais, Switzerland to the north. The region is the least populated in Italy and the only Italian region that has no provinces.
Climate
The Aosta Valley tends to have very cold winters due to the Western Alps blocking the warmer winds coming up from the Atlantic Ocean but it does make it perfect for skiing. The region has different climates throughout the area with temperatures ranging from -1 C (30 F) to 3 C (37 F) in January and February to 17 C (63 F) and 20 C (68 F) in Summer. The region is perfect for travellers who wish to avoid those humid and hot summers and enjoy cool winters.
History of Aosta Valley
Aosta Valley was once occupied by the Celts and Ligures until Rome conquered the region in approximately 25 BC. It was the Romans who built bridges and roads to create access points through the mountain range. In the succeeding years, Aosta Valley passed through many hands including the Goths, Burgundians and the Franks to name a few.
Dining in Aosta Valley
Aosta Valley’s cuisine is noted for it’s simplicity and favors ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, meat, polenta and rye bread. Fontina cheese originated in this region and is found in many Italian dishes such as Valpelime Soup. Other regional delicacies include Motzetta (a dried meat prepared like prosciutto) and Valiee d’Aoste Lard d’Arnad.
Access
The natural beauty of the area lead to its biggest economy – tourism. It’s easy for tourist to visit this breathtaking area. The Turin, Milan and Geneva airports are close by with several major airlines servicing them. Driving here will take roughly 10 hours from Calais but the scenery is definitely worth it. It is also possible to take the train here via Rail Europe and Eurostar.
Accommodation
Aosta Valley has something for everyone in terms of accommodations. There are rental apartments and holiday homes, as well as villas and hotels. It is possible to find lodging for either short term or long term stays.
Tourist Attractions in Aosta Valley
The Aosta Valley is famous for its ski resorts and hills including Punta Helbronner – Funivie Monte Bianco and the Breuil – Cervinia Ski Area. Not to be missed are the gorgeous Lillaz Waterfalls and the beautiful Forte di Bard.