Aosta

Castles & Ruins and Tall Mountains

Italy is arguably Europe's most fascinating country with everything a world weary person or first time traveler could desire. Val D'Aosta is perhaps the best example of this. Here in the extreme northern region of Italy, like its southern most cousin Sicily, you find a convergence of many conquering peoples. Roman, Celtic, Byzantine and Gallic cultures struggled over this area and left behind evidence for us to discover: celtic bronze runes, gold religious artifacts, Roman arches, amphitheaters, ports and facades cast against a stunning backdrop of Alps. While not many remain, some of the Roman ruins found here (circa 25 BC) are the best of the fallen empire found north of Rome. In more abundance are the medieval fortresses that are scattered through the region's hills and mountains. During the centuries following Roman rule, the stunning passes of this area were the control points of regional power. This was the reason for Rome's presence and the many fortresses, castles and keeps standing watch through the centuries bear witness to powers of the past. Some of the castles that should be seen include Graines Castle (11th century), Bard Fortress (19th century), Aymavilles Castle (14th century), Fenis Castle (13th) and Verres Castle (14th) all stretched along the river of the valley. There are many more.

Here in Val d'Aosta, one luxuriates in the area's natural beauty. This is found in abundance in Italy's second largest natural park: the Gran Paradismo, Vittorio Emmanuel's private hunting park until 1922. The valleys and stunning peaks that define this place include Val di Cogne, Val di Rhemes, Val D'Aosta and the Gran Paradismo that stretches along the southern edge of the region.

Sharing its stunning resources with Switzerland and France, Aosta is Italy's least populated region. And there is little doubt as to why: it's all mountains! Here you have deep valleys, perfect carpets of green grass that must have been the location for Ricola cough drop commercials and the world renown mountain ranges of The Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and the lesser known Mount Rosa. Those are all in the extreme north and define the Alps as Switzerland and France begin their borders. Glaciers surround these stunning peaks and whether you are in a cable car dipping between towers, on skis racing down a slope or walking the valleys and hills, the Valley of Aosta has much to offer the folks who appreciate the awesome beauty of nature exposed.

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