itfrende
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The Aosta Valley is a land rich in history and stories, a crossroads of ancient routes for thousands of years. Pilgrims, merchants, and warriors from all over Europe have traveled through this region. Anyone crossing the Alps had to do so on foot—perhaps accompanied by a mule or, for the nobler travelers, on horseback. Traveling by carriage through these rugged mountains was difficult, if not impossible.

The Via Francigena

Large sections of this historic pilgrimage route follow an ancient Roman road built to connect their vast empire. Over time, it became a spiritual path leading from Canterbury to Rome. The Via Francigena represented movement, trade, and pilgrimage. In the past, traveling meant embracing uncertainty, danger, and exhaustion, but also adventure, learning, meeting new people, and placing enormous trust in God.

Impression

And it is precisely along this historic route that our house is located, in the old center of Issogne, a picturesque village at the foot of the mountains, known for its charming Renaissance castle. This castle also served as a refuge for pilgrims, and the graffiti carved into its frescoes by past travelers bear witness to the wanderlust of our ancestors. Here, you will find the names of travelers from all over Europe, some dating back to the Middle Ages, along with their words of wisdom.

Climbing and the Fortress of Bard

Across from Issogne lies the Ayas Valley, known from the novel and film “Le Otto Montagne” (The Eight Mountains). Arnad, with its famous climbing wall “Il Paretone,” and the impressive Fortress of Bard can be reached on foot or in just 5–10 minutes by car.
You can also begin your hikes in the Vesey Valley, from where you can reach the stunning Mont Avic Regional Park, stretching between the Champorcher and Champdepraz valleys. The untouched forests surrounding Issogne are little known, yet in spring, wild peonies bloom in certain spots—a paradise for botany enthusiasts. However, hikers should be in good shape, as the trails are steep and overgrown. Perhaps a mythical Dahu, the legendary creature of the Aosta Valley, hides in this rugged and undisturbed habitat, feeling right at home.