May is the perfect month to explore the Aosta Valley: the days get longer, nature awakens, and the calendar fills with cultural and sporting events.

Between nature and sport: Col de Joux and the Giro d’Italia

If you're looking for a trip off the beaten path, Col de Joux is the ideal destination: a peaceful spot surrounded by woods, with views over the central valley, a playground in the heart of nature, and the possibility to reach it by car, on foot, or by bike.

This year, the Giro d’Italia also passes through Col de Joux, offering intense excitement along the way:

  • On Friday, May 30th, stage 19 (Biella–Champoluc) crosses three steep mountain passes in the Aosta Valley – Tzecore, Saint-Pantaléon and Joux – before the climb to Antagnod and the finish line in Champoluc, marking the first-ever Giro arrival in the Val d’Ayas valley, in the Monte Rosa area.
  • On Saturday, May 31st, stage 20 starts in Verrès and heads toward Piedmont, with the first 15 km winding through the landscapes of the Aosta Valley — the last chance to experience the magic of the Giro up close among the highest peaks of the Alps.

The same mountain roads that challenge cyclists are also ideal for motorcyclists: scenic curves, charming villages and views that change with every turn.

A journey through history: Bard and Aosta

At the end of May, Bard becomes the stage for Napoleonica, a grand historical reenactment of Napoleon’s passage through the region in 1800. Over 300 costumed reenactors, military camps, manoeuvres and scenes of daily life bring history to life in the village.
Take the opportunity to visit the museums of the Fort of Bard and prestigious exhibitions, such as Wildlife Photographer of the Year, featuring breath-taking nature photography from around the world.

Continue your historical journey with a visit to the city of Aosta: stroll among Roman monuments, lively streets, outdoor cafés and local shops — a perfect ending to a spring holiday discovering the authentic beauty of the Aosta Valley.

Emotion and relaxation with a view of Mont Blanc

In Pré-Saint-Didier, walk safely along the panoramic footbridge suspended over the deep gorge carved by the stream, or treat yourself to a wellness break at the famous thermal baths. In both cases, the view of the Mont Blanc massif is truly unforgettable.

Nearby, explore La Salle on a walking route through historic noble residences and rural areas. From La Salle, you can also head to the hamlet of Derby, a small medieval gem.

Finally, in Morgex, visit the parish church and the museum of sacred art. With children, don’t miss the reading park and comic museum. Along the Dora Baltea river, enjoy a peaceful walk in the greenery of the Marais nature reserve.

Still want to ski?

In Breuil-Cervinia, the season continues until May 4th seamlessly transitioning into summer skiing at the foot of the Matterhorn.