(Alpine Skiing)

This is a renowned, elegant tourist district offering excellent accommodation.
Located at 1,385 metres above sea level, it covers a vast flatland full of vegetation, in a particularly interesting area due to its view of impressive mountain massifs and the Lyskamm glacier.

It has a characteristic historic centre, where some of the Walser houses, which are perfectly preserved, are grouped together around the church of San Giovanni Battista. Built in 1725 on a previous building dating from 1515, this church has an over-leaning roof and a beautiful bell-tower from the sixteenth century which opens with a mullioned window and crowned by a spire. The parish museum preserves a large crucifix that dates back to the XIII century, among the oldest masterpieces in Valle d'Aosta.

There is a picturesque lake just outside the town centre whose waters are a beautiful emerald green and reflect the surrounding, majestic summits. Immersed in the greenery of the woodland, in a panoramic locality called "Belvedere", you will find Castel Savoia, built during Queen Margherita's reign in 1894 as her residence on her frequent holidays.
The typical dress is a symbol of the oldest traditions, strongly rooted and traceable to the Walser culture, particularly the female costumes, which are strictly black and white, with a white blouse adorned with ornate lace and decorated by a rich cuff in gold filigree.
The winter sports infrastructures permit off-track and Nordic skiing, in a natural, very picturesque environment. The ski lift complexes serve the off-track pistes that cover over 13 kilometres. There is also an interesting cross-country piste that covers 25 kilometres, taking in woodland and magnificent views over the glaciers.

In January the international Nordic skiing competition takes placed called the "Monterosalauf", over a 25 kilometre route. Gressoney is a privileged starting point for alpine and mountain pass excursions. During the summer you can arrive to Brusson, in Valle d'Ayas, by crossing Colle della Ranzola, which is a beautiful walk; there are also plenty of other excursions thanks to the ski lifts which also operate during the summer period.

There is a traditional evening on the 23rd of June, St. John's feast day, which is characterised by a rite of fires; the real party begins the following day with a celebration mass, which includes the participation of the locals dressed in typical, Walser costumes, with celebrations lasting three days.

Altitude: 1385 m

Distances:
from Aosta: 80 km