Aosta Valley

Overview:

AOSTA VALLEY: In the uppermost corner of northwest Italy is Valle d’Aosta, a region made up entirely of mountains, with its Alps bordering France and Switzerland. The capital city, Aosta, derives its name from Ottaviano Augusto who founded the city in 25 AD. It is one of two Italian regions that have been run as completely autonomous administrations since 1946, with its own constitution and laws. Besides having preserved Patois, its original dialect, both French and Italian are also spoken fluently. This region has many ski resorts including: Cervinia, Courmayeur, and Mont Blanc on the French-Swiss border. You will also find 130 medieval castles in Aosta, with the Fenis and Issogne being the most famous. The Gran Paradiso National Park, with its Alpine refuges, is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers, hikers, and climbers. Gastronomic specialties: Fontina cheese (excellent in fondues) and many prestigious wines (including Pinot Gris) come from the Aosta Valley.