World-class ski resort –Aosta Valley– turns into a summer playground during the warmer months. Whether you love riding mountain bikes, water-based activities, or enjoy wildlife or extreme challenges, the smallest region in Italy is home to an array of mountain adventures and adrenaline-fuelled thrills. Check out our top recommendations for an action-packed holiday in the heart of the Alps:
In white-water: Rafting and Kayaking.
During the summer months, Aosta Valley comes alive with its vibrant Alpine torrents, offering a plethora of water-based activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and hydrospeed. Expert guides cater to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts, providing specialized programs categorized by difficulty and duration. Additionally, there are designated trails tailored specifically for children, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the thrill of navigating these fiery waters. Water activities can be enjoyed from May to October, among incredible natural landscapes and ancient castles.
In the Air: Paragliding & Hot Air Balloon
The geographical features of Aosta Valley render it a prime location for various types of flights, including gliding, hang gliding, paragliding, hot air ballooning, skydiving, and more. Antey-Saint-André, situated in the valley of Mount Matterhorn, serves as a prominent hub for paragliding logistics, offering opportunities for flights throughout the year.
Embark on a hot air balloon adventure from the heart of Aosta city, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking aerial view of this ancient Roman marvel. As you ascend to heights of up to 3,000 meters, find yourself surrounded by a vast expanse of majestic mountains and glaciers. To top it off, your flight can be guided by Nello Charbonnier’s son, a seasoned Italian champion and intrepid explorer who has ventured on epic expeditions to remote corners of the earth, from the Baffin Island alongside the Inuit, to the deserts of Jordan and the forests of Malaysia.
On the side of the mountain: Mountaineering, Climbing and Via Ferrata.
Aosta Valley mountains have played a significant role in the history of Alpine summit conquests, and to this day, thousands of mountaineers continue to ascend their peaks annually. These majestic mountains boast rock walls that serve as an awe-inspiring playground for climbers, offering numerous natural climbing routes and Via Ferrata trails. And, let’s not overlook the Gran Paradiso, the highest peak entirely located on Italian territory, standing at 4,061 meters and accessible for mountaineering adventures.
Rock Climbing Paretone Wall in Arnad: Located just minutes from Bard Fort, the iconic cliff known as Paretone holds both historical significance and emblematic status. It has been a landmark for mountaineers across generations and remains a favourite among climbers today, thanks to its unique features and high-quality rock. With 41 well-equipped routes, the cliff offers accessibility for climbers of all levels.
On two wheels: Mountain biking
For downhill and freeride enthusiasts, Pila, La Thuile and Cervinia are must-visit destinations. Cogne boasts 45 kilometres of trails, some which wind through the Gran Paradiso National Park, while the Monterosa area also offers a plethora of routes. Families and less experienced cyclists need not to fret, as there are numerous trails suitable for various skill levels, accessible via e-bikes. Additionally, cyclists can explore a wealth of mountain passes throughout region.
About Aosta Valley: The smallest region of Italy located in the Northwest of the country; Aosta Valley boasts spectacular scenery, world-class skiing and snowboarding, food of the highest quality and a history stretching back to Roman times. At the heart of the alps and bordered by France and Switzerland, Aosta Valley is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in Europe: Cervino, Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso and the king of them all, Mont Blanc, which at 15,781 feet is the highest mountain in Europe, the roof of the old Continent. With Turin, Milan and Geneva airports all within easy reach, the Aosta Valley resorts are among the easiest to get to from the UK making it an ideal destination for a weekend or short break. For more information on Aosta Valley visit: www.aosta-valley.co.uk