At the foot of the Pennine Alps: Ayas

Ayas - Ayas is the smallest town in the Aosta Valley. Located at the foot of Monte Rosa, Ayas is characterized by its division into numerous villages that offer different points of view over the valley. The small village is lost among stone paved alleys, flowered balconies and squares from which it is possible to see majestic landscapes. The origins of the city date back to the times of the ancient Romans, the Salassi were the first inhabitants who dealt with agriculture, breeding and hunting.

Val d'Ayas was used as a passageway to other territories. As for the typical buildings of Ayas are the rescard, buildings made of stone and wood built in simple forms, used both as houses and as stables. In Antagnod you can enjoy a fine view of Monte Rosa and the imposing bell tower of the church of San Martino. The church preserves the main altar built in carved, painted and gilded wood. Enriched with numerous statues, it is the most admired Baroque-style monument in the area. Throughout the valley it is possible to find equipped and fun areas prepared for summer tourism. In Ayas it is possible to practice in the whole area, during the summer season, horse riding, trekking and mountain biking. In any season it is possible to do Nordic walking, a beneficial activity mixed with trekking and yoga. Useful for increasing the benefits of walking. The hamlet of Champoluc is located on a basin characterized by the background of the glaciers that close the head of the valley and is known for the ski facilities that connect the valleys to Monte Rosa. The winter tourism of the Val d 'Ayas is mainly due to the ski resort, although in recent years tourism has chosen Ayas even in summer thanks to the coolness and the sun. In fact, the valley is used for mountaineering at both beginner and advanced level. It is also possible to take tours where you can fully get to know all the hamlets of Ayas and the mountains. Ayas tourism is tourism aimed at wellness, in fact there is a large wellness center in the place with thermal water, saunas and relaxation rooms. To admire the wonderful landscape, the ideal is to take a walk in a cart. Along the stream it is possible to admire wooden statues depicting magical and fairy beings. Along the promenade there are craftsmen engaged in woodworking, to forge ever-changing statues. The tradition of woodworking that has always been handed down in the valley is implemented with summer courses for anyone who wants to try their hand at this ancient art. The clogs are among the most requested souvenirs, they are wooden clogs used in every season of the year by the elderly. The production is still in force both to keep the tradition alive and used by skiers as après-ski. The typical activities of the city are the production of milk and cheese and livestock. Renowned products are red wines, cheeses and cured meats all from organic farming. Ayas opens up like a natural terrace on the pink mountain, and is a perfect fusion of nature, culture and folklore.