On the map above, the funnel-shaped symbol in the top right-hand corner allows you to choose which points of interest to view.
Click again on the funnel to close the legend and begin your exploration of the Lower valley and Mont Avic tourist area, defined by the coloured area.
If you wish to explore further, you can access the corresponding descriptive sheet by clicking on the point identified.
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A treasure chest containing history, nature and ancient traditions
In the Lower valley and Mont Avic tourist area you can rediscover the charm of rural life and the distant echoes of ancient legends and historical facts.
A riot of bunches of grapes and terraced vineyards, in which mighty chestnut trees alternate with bushes of wild berries, while the fragrance of wild flowers mixes with the scent of freshly baked black bread or roasted chestnuts. A land in which rivers of excellent wine flow, so valuable that the first Controlled Designation of Origin label of the Aosta Valley was born among its barrels in Donnas.
Taste the delicious Chambave Muscat wine and the Lard d'Arnad POD and let yourself be conquered by the authentic and genuine flavours of this land.
Here stand castles and fortresses, the scene of fierce battles and intrepid exploits, such as Napoleon's siege of the Fort of Bard, or the tenacious resistance of Catherine of Challant within the walls of the manor of Verrès.
Also discover the wild side of this area in the Mont Avic natural park, among its pine forests and its bodies of water that extend between Champorcher and Champdepraz.
A territory that lends itself to being discovered on foot as pilgrims and wayfarers have done over the centuries along the "Via delle Gallie" consular road and the Via Francigena, crossing medieval villages and bridges of centuries-old beauty.
Added to the alpine environments and the numerous cultural destinations, castles and remains from the Roman era, are the entertainment options of the Saint-Vincent Casino and the lively tradition of historical carnivals in Pont-Saint-Martin and Verrès.
A corner of nature that is still intact, a world of flora and fauna with many species impossible to find elsewhere.
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Cly castle is one of the oldest castles of the Aosta Valley. The large defensive walls, crowned by gabled Guelph merlons, surround constructions erected between the eleventh and fourteenth centuries.
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The fortress of Bard was an unconquerable nineteenth century barrier fortress. It is now a European cultural centre, with museum and exhibition spaces.
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Next to the mineral water spring, a designer spa is devoted to relaxation and beauty.
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Issogne Castle
An expression of the metamorphosis of Gothic to Renaissance, Issogne castle holds surprising art treasures, such as the wrought-iron pomegranate fountain.
Arch on the road to Gaul
In Donnas, the stretch of paved road lies below an arch which is cut into the rock and features a carefully worked archway.
The prisons of the Fortress of Bard
The history of the Fortress of Bard is revealed in a permanent museum space housed in the prisons.
Pont-Saint-Martin Bridge
One of the most beautiful and best-conserved bridges of the Roman world and the biggest with only one span.
Casino de la Vallée
In Saint-Vincent, one of Europe's largest and most prestigious casinos.
The tour of the bridges
An itinerary on foot to discover Pontboset, in the Champorcher valley, between bridges and old houses.
Events in the area
Bard | 7 December 2024 - 6 January 2025
Christmas lights at the Fortress of Bard
Entertainment and shows - BardA 360° immersive spectacle of sound and light in the fortress's large Piazza d'Armi: a new display dedicated to the theme of constellations: the realm of the stars. A journey into the secrets of the cosmos between wonder, science and mystery.
Bard | 7 December 2024 - 26 January 2025
Li Santoun d'Arles - Provençal Nativity Scene
Exhibitions - BardIn the chapel of the Fort of Bard, you can admire a majestic nativity scene covering 80 square meters, depicting a typical Provençal village from the 9th century, with over 250 handcrafted statues.
Verrès | 11 January 2025
Historical Carnival of Verrès - Opening Ball
Carnivals - VerrèsEvery year, before the celebrations begin, the Carnival characters are presented in the village square. The story of the Lady of the Castle - “friend of the people” - is re-enacted every year by the people of Verrès, still grateful for her lovely gesture, which was most unusual for the time.
Donnas | 17 - 19 January 2025
Sant'Orso Fair in Donnas
Craft/fairs/markets - DonnasSmaller and more compact than the one in Aosta, Sant’Orso Fair in Donnas is a pleasant craft fair that takes place along the main street in the Medieval town.