Best things to do in La Thuile

Admire the marble "Porta dello Zodiaco," a 12th-century masterpiece, at Sacra di San Michele. Until recent times, skeletons of dead monks were visible at this large religious complex atop of Mount Pirchiriano. You can still walk up the Stairway of the Dead, which is flanked by arches and tombs. Explore the grounds of the Romanesque church and discover ruins from a monastery and an ancient church. After the winding drive to this area, you'll need to take a short, steep walk up from the parking lot. You must wear modest clothing to enter; you can borrow a shawl to cover your shoulders.

Pamper yourself with a spa afternoon at QC Terme Pre Saint Didier in the heart of the Aosta Valley. At the foot of Mount Blanc, the spa features several saunas, baths, and pools with natural thermal mountain water. Relax in the outdoor or indoor thermal pools with views of the mountains. Treat yourself to a deep-tissue massage or rejuvenating facial. Visit in the evening for discounted prices and a candlelit spa experience. The spa also offers an upscale hotel and restaurant.

Make your way up a trail through nature and scenic views to reach Lillaz Waterfalls. Walk from the village and follow the path around geological exhibits, through pine trees, and along a stream. Head strait to the top of the falls, or stop off at one of the many viewing points for different angles along the way. Prepare for slightly steeper steps near the end. Have a picnic at the top, and even drink from the cold, clear water. From the top you can go down the other side by crossing a bridge over the fall. Keep your eyes open for interesting wildlife on the way.

Val Ferret is the name shared by two valleys separated by the Col Ferret, a pass on the border between Italy and Switzerland. The valleys lie southeast of Mont Blanc Massif. The Swiss valley drains northeast towards Orsières and on into the Rhône basin; whereas the Italian valley drains southwest towards Courmayeur and on into the Po basin.

The two valleys are connected by a mountain footpath through Col Ferret which forms part of the 170 kilometres (110 mi) circular Tour du Mont Blanc route. Access to Col Ferret is forbidden for private motor vehicles, on both sides.