Castles and Culture
A journey through the history and beauty of the Aosta Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, our hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Aosta Valley.
Here, where nature meets history, you can discover fairy-tale castles, ancient Roman ruins, and age-old traditions. Each visit will allow you to immerse yourself in a world of legends, art, and timeless architectural beauty.
A Little Loire in the Aosta Valley
The Aosta Valley is renowned for its castles, ancient fortresses, and stately homes that narrate centuries of history, such as the majestic Sarre Castle, a royal residence for King Victor Emmanuel’s hunting expeditions, or the fairy-tale Fénis Castle, famous for its battlemented towers and frescoes. If you love Renaissance art, Issogne Castle will captivate you with its old-world charm. And don’t forget Saint Pierre Castle, built on a rocky spur with a marvellous view of the valley.
Roman Aosta: A Dive into Antiquity
Aosta, known as the “Rome of the Alps,” is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Founded by the Romans, it still preserves significant historical monuments such as the Arch of Augustus, the Porta Praetoria, and the Roman Theatre, impressive remnants of the Roman civilisation that once ruled the region.
Pont d'Aël: Roman Ingenuity
Just a few kilometres from Pré-Saint-Didier, Pont d’Aël is an engineering masterpiece not to be missed. This aqueduct, built in 3 BC, is a monumental structure that spans a dramatic gorge, showcasing the Romans’ skill in shaping the landscape to suit their needs. Today, visitors can walk across it and appreciate the grandeur of ancient engineering up close.
Craftsmanship and Traditions: The Museum of Valdostan Craftsmanship
If you wish to delve into local traditions, a visit to the Museum of Valdostan Craftsmanship in Fénis is a must. Here, you’ll discover the art of working with wood, iron, and fabric, which has been a cornerstone of alpine culture for centuries. The museum exhibits tools and artefacts that tell the stories of generations of artisans and the techniques used to create unique and valuable objects.
Spirituality and Nature: The Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Guérison
The Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Guérison is a place of great spirituality, famed for miracles, located at the foot of the Brenva glacier. Built in the 19th century, it has long been a pilgrimage destination and a place to admire the natural beauty, offering an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity amidst the Alpine peaks.
These are just some of the cultural excursions you can enjoy while staying at our 3-star Superior hotel in Pré-Saint-Didier.
