Discover the aosta valley on a breathtaking road trip

Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Italy lies the stunning Aosta Valley, known for its breathtaking scenery, majestic castles, and incredible ancient Roman history. Embarking on a road trip through this unique region will lead you on an unforgettable journey amidst towering mountains, picturesque valleys, and charming medieval towns.

Planning Your Route: Where to go in the Aosta Valley

Before setting off on your adventure, it’s vital to plan a route that works best for you, taking into consideration factors such as time constraints, personal interests, and preferences for driving terrain. Here are some key highlights not to be missed during your road trip through the Aosta Valley:

1. Aosta: Known as the “Rome of the Alps,” this historic capital city features well-preserved Roman architecture, vibrant piazzas, and enticing local cuisine.
2. Fénis Castle: Visit one of the most famous and impressive castles of the Aosta Valley, featuring striking round towers, a high defensive wall, and a fully furnished interior showcasing exquisite examples of medieval art.
3. Cogne: This picturesque village is the gateway to Gran Paradiso National Park, offering hiking, skiing, and mountaineering opportunities with panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.
4. Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc): Admire Europe’s highest peak and enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing at Courmayeur ski resort.
5. Saint-Vincent: Test your luck at Casino de la Vallée in this posh, upscale town that features luxury hotels, spas, and trendy bars.

To make the most of your journey, consider booking a car rental aosta to have the freedom and flexibility to fully explore the region at your leisure.

The Majesty of Aosta’s Castles

Magnificent castles dot the landscape throughout the Aosta Valley, each telling a unique story about the area’s rich medieval history. Some must-see castles include:

• Fénis Castle: This remarkable fortress boasts magnificent frescoes within its walls, including lavish hunting scenes, depictions of animal fables, and images of everyday life in the Middle Ages.
• Verrès Castle: Perched on a rocky hill overlooking Verrès town, this imposing 12th-century stronghold is one of Italy’s best-preserved examples of military architecture from the period.
• Sarriod de la Tour Castle: An enchanting, well-preserved feudal estate adorned with spectacular botanical gardens showcasing over 100 species of roses.
• Issogne Castle: Often compared to a fairy tale palace, this enchanting residence features vibrant frescoes, lavishly decorated rooms, and a charming courtyard complete with an ancient grapevine pergola.

Visiting Tips for Aosta’s Castles

While many of these castles are open to the public, some may require advance reservations or have limited visiting hours. Be sure to research specific opening times and entrance fees before embarking on your castle visits to avoid disappointment.

Exploring Roman History in the Aosta Valley

The city of Aosta is a hub of ancient Roman history, with remarkable archaeological sites and landmarks to discover:

• Porta Praetoria: This impressive fortified gate once served as the eastern entrance to Augusta Prætoria Salassorum (modern-day Aosta). Today, it stands remarkably well-preserved with its original walls, towers, and pavement still largely intact.
• Tour du Lépreux (Leper’s Tower): Visit the remains of this mystifying 3rd-century tower that was once part of the ancient Augustan city wall.
• Aosta’s Roman Theatre: Despite centuries of wear, several original architectural features remain at this once-grand venue, including the stage proscenium and an encompassing side street still paved with cobblestones.

Museums Dedicated to Roman History

While exploring Aosta’s ancient sites, make sure to visit the important museums highlighting the region’s long-lasting connection to Rome:

1. Aosta Regional Archaeological Museum: Explore an extensive collection of artifacts from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages, including items discovered in Roman burial sites and the excavation of the theatre.
2. Aosta Cathedral Treasury Museum: Discover pieces of sacred art, precious textiles, and priceless silverware, as well as valuable remnants from Augusta Prætoria’s early Christian period.

Savoring the Flavors of Aosta Valley’s Cuisine

A road trip in the Aosta Valley isn’t complete without sampling the area’s delicious local cuisine. Indulge in regional specialties such as Fontina, polenta, and superb wines:

• Fontina: Aosta Valley’s signature cheese is a must-try. This creamy cow’s milk cheese can be enjoyed on its own or as an ingredient in classic dishes like fonduta (cream soup) or Valdostana crepes.
• Polenta: Made from ground cornmeal, this hearty dish is often served with rabbit stew, wild boar sausage, or other slow-cooked meats.
• Aosta Valley Wines: Vineyards line the steep slopes of the region, producing red and white wines that perfectly accompany local dishes.

Chef’s Recommendations

While dining your way through the valley, consider trying some of these mouthwatering favorites:

1. Civet di camoscio: A flavorful game stew made with mountain chamois and pancetta and garnished with mountain juniper berries for an added kick.
2. Tegole: Crunchy almond cookies shaped like roof tiles and named after their curved appearance.

Embarking on a Journey Through Nature and Time

From dramatic mountain landscapes to flavorful cuisine and stunning historical landmarks, the Aosta Valley offers unparalleled experiences throughout every stage of your road trip. With its ancient roots, picturesque villages, and invigorating outdoor activities, this hidden gem is guaranteed to spark wanderlust and adventure anew.