A symphony of Alpine pastures
This mountainous region will charm everyone with its hundred castles, an authentic collection of Gothic sculptures, breath-taking views, luxurious ski resorts such as Courmayeur and Cervinia, isolated hiking trails, a rich food culture, unspoilt wildlife, baroque village churches, Europe’s largest casino and 116.000 enjoyable inhabitants who have fought very hard for their independence against the reigning Savoys in the 12th century.
Valle d'Aosta borders France, and most local people are in fact bilingual. The cultural influence of Switzerland and Germany can also be felt, through the Swiss-style architecture of many buildings, and the German-based dialects that are spoken in some areas. This is a destination for small incentives, perfect for clients interested in skiing, nature and sport activities.
The cuisine of this region is based on cheese and meat, rye bread, potatoes, polenta, gnocchi, risotto and soups. Grazing cows on Alpine meadows provide fine butter and cheese, called toma, Robiola and above all Fontina DOP, used in many dishes, including fondua, made with milk as in Piedmont's fonduta. This region is famous for some very interesting wines including the Petit Rouge Enfer d'Arvier and Torrette, the Blanc de Valdigne of Morgex and La Salle, the Petite Arvine, the Vien de nus, for the red wine and the Malvoisie (apparently a mutation of Pinot Gris) and for the rare dessert white of Nus.
Access to this region is through the international airports of Torino and Genève as well as the smaller airport in the capital city of Aosta.