Best things to do in Valle d'Aosta

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.

Experience a piece of history at Teatro Romano, the remains of a first-century amphitheater. Today, just seven of the original 60 arches remain in this structure that once held 20,000 people. There is also a surrounding wall of which only part remains, which stands 22 m (72 ft) tall. A walkway will help you easily navigate the area, and informational brochures are available nearby. Special events, such as light shows, are sometimes hosted here.

A fortified castle built in the 19th century by the House of Savoy, Forte di Bard reopened in 2006 as the Museum of the Alps. Although the main structure dates from the 19th century, the complex is built atop the foundations of a fifth- and tenth-century castle complex. The fortress repelled Napoleon's army of 40,000 with a mere 400 soldiers manning the castle. Visit the museum to learn more about the castle's defenses and the Alps.

Dramatic panoramic vistas and plentiful wildlife await you at Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso, an Italian national park set in a stunning Alpine landscape. Established in 1922 (making it Italy's first national park), the land is home to 4,000 alpine ibex, an endangered species that the park has been charged with protecting. Lush green rolling hills and valleys intertwine between the snow-capped peaks rising overhead. Weasels, hares, badgers, wolves, and chamois join the ibex here. You can explore easy hiking trails through the natural landscape, or it can also be traveled by bike.

At the top of a grassy knoll, Castello di Fenis features limestone watchtowers that rise high above the countryside. An opulent residence for the Challant family in medieval times, the pentagonal castle is now a museum run by the Aosta Valley autonomous region. Once inside the double boundary wall, you'll enter the ground floor to see the kitchen, woodshed, rainwater storage tank, and a display of medieval weaponry. Climb the stairs to the first floor to explore the lords' rooms and the chapel, where you'll find Giacomo Jacquerio's majestic frescoes. Guided tours are only in Italian, but informative pamphlets are available in other languages.

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.