Due to its proximity to France, Valle d’Aosta, a sparsely populated region in the Alps, is heavily influenced by French culture and cuisine, rendering it a cultural melting pot
Go for this: Visiting the Ancient Roman Theatre and the Forte di Bard in Aosta
But try this: Skiing in Courmayeur in winter and hiking Mont Blanc or the Matterhorn (Monte Cervino) with a mountain guide in summer
Favorite hotels: Auberge de la Maison (Courmayeu), Bellevue Hotel & Spa (Cogne), Hermitage Hotel & Spa (Breuil-Cervinia)
Favorite guest experience: Exploring Italy’s first national park, Gran Paradiso, from valley to mountaintop via hiking trails
Foods: Renette apples, Fontina, Polenta
Wine: Moscato, Picotendro
Best time to visit: Year round