Valle d'Aosta

Overview

Valle d'Aosta is Italy's smallest region, tucked into the northwestern corner where Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and Monte Rosa pierce the sky. French is co-official here, and the culture blends Savoyard and Italian traditions. Medieval castles guard every valley, while ski resorts like Courmayeur and Cervinia draw winter crowds. The cuisine warms: fontina fondue, carbonade beef stew, and lard d'Arnad. This is Italy at its most vertical and intimate.