Discovering the timeless Aosta Valley
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE
Aosta Valley
Embark on a journey suspended between past and present through the history and craft traditions that still reveal the most authentic side of the Aosta Valley.
A journey from the underground vaults of Augusta Praetoria back to the ancient roots of medicinal remedies, through rooms inhabited by ladies and knights, following the grains of wood until it reveals the weaves woven by a linen thread.
IN THE HEART OF ROMAN HISTORY
It starts in imperial Rome, from the foundation of Augusta Praetoria, of which modern Aosta still preserves numerous remains. One is particularly notable, the ‘forensic cryptoporticus’, a monumental structure in the ancient forum: a descent into the heart of the Roman city, through underground tunnels and imposing travertine arches.
NEW LIFE FOR ANCIENT REMEDIES
The extraordinary variety of medicinal and aromatic herbs in the Aosta Valley has resulted in a centuries-old tradition of therapeutic knowledge. You can immerse yourself in this natural and craft heritage at the Maison des Anciens Remèdes, taking a sensory journey together with botanical experts.
LADIES AND WINE GLASSES
The Aosta Valley is also a land of castles and fortresses, which since the Middle Ages have recounted the lives of the noble families that inhabited them. At the Aymavilles Castle, you can relive the stories of ladies and knights in a themed food and wine tour, where courtly intrigues are interwoven with the surrounding vineyards.
MONSTERS AND MASTER WOODWORKERS
During a day dedicated to the art of wood, you will discover the masterpieces and the techniques that have spanned centuries: from the grotesque wooden ceiling of the Sala delle Teste (Hall of Heads) in the Sarriod de La Tour castle, to the timeless works of sculptor François Cerise, to a carving demonstration by master craftsman Angelo Toppo.
INTERTWINED WITH TRADITION
In the 17th century, several nuns fleeing from Cluny imported the tradition of bobbin lace-making to the Aosta Valley: masterpieces made with linen threads wound on wooden bobbins, which can be discovered during an embroidery demonstration by the Dentellières de Cogne, promoters of this ancient Aosta Valley textile craft.
THE GUIDE
ELISABETTA CONVERSO
Since 1986, Elisabetta Converso has been a licensed Tourist Guide for the Aosta Valley, an area she promotes with passion and expertise, combining her engaging narration of the region’s cultural heritage with an in-depth and varied training: specialised in Mountain Tourism Economics and Management and an expert in local products and traditions, she holds the titles of Sommelier, ONAV, ONAS and ONAF Taster.
Experience recognised by:
THE EXPERIENCE INCLUDES
- Three nights at a community hotel based in a restored 17th-century chalet
- Private guided tours of cultural sites
- Experiential visitor routes
- Meetings and lessons with master craftsmen
- Excellent food and wine tours
COST
Experience from € 2,900
Limited to 14 people
MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation and meals are included*.
*Except where otherwise indicated in the programmes.
TRANSFERS
All travel within the Experience is included*.
*Travel to and from the location of the Experience is not included.
TRAVEL ASSISTANT
Dedicated 24-hour service throughout your stay.