 Profile: Antagnod
& Cogne — Italy, Jul 4 - Jul 19, 2009
|
The Town 
Antagnod lies high above the Val d'Ayas, which runs north from the main Aosta Valley. Formerly, the valley's seat of power, it has ceded this role to nearby Champoluc, a well-known ski resort. Just a five-minute bus ride from Champoluc, it has a wide variety of shops and restaurants in a quieter setting than its better known neighbor. It also has unsurpassed views of the Monte Rosa massif to the north and ancient buildings of great architectural interest. While Italian is widely spoken, the inhabitants speak a patois which reflects the area's earlier relationship to the Haute Savoie.
The Hikes 
The possibilities are almost endless. From the Rifugio Ferraro we can climb to the Palon de Resy or visit the remote lakes of the same name. The Monte Zerbion is an extraordinary viewpoint, looking out on the Gran Paradiso, the Mont Blanc and the entire Monte Rosa range. A beautiful walk through deep woods brings us to the charming village of Mascognaz. With an assist from a van, we can cross the Colle di Nana and descend to Cheneil in the Valtournanche, with the Matterhorn as our background.The Hotel I first discovered the Petit Prince some 20 years ago – a favorite headquarters during ski mountaineering trips around the Monte Rosa. More recently, trekking groups enjoyed its cozy (25 rooms) ambience, grass-covered roof (designed by its Norwegian architects) and its breath-taking views of the Monte Rosa frontier range. Now, they have added a fine restaurant (I've sampled the fare) and offer tasty half pension. Guests enjoy the friendly bar, and the dining room with its beautiful paintings, piano and Tyrolean stove. Silvio Obert is a mountain guide. He and his wife, Paola and their four daughters have catered to mountain lovers since acquiring the hotel in 1974. When You're Not Hiking It is possible to visit one of the many small hamlets which dot the valley – or even visit the main Aosta Valley at Verres or Saint Vincent. There are several castles open to the public. Shorter strolls and shopping are also options, as well as a wide variety of restaurants featuring regional specialities. Come Join Us If you are intrigued by our "small is beautiful" philosophy and would like to receive additional information or make reservations for Antagnod, or any of our upcoming trips, please email Sheila Duigan or call her direct at 800-291-8126. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hiking Program 2009
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sheila Duigan · Alpine Travel, Inc. · P.O. Box 159 · White Plains, NY 10605 · tel 800-291-8126 · fax 914-747-2266
Alpine Trails and alptrails.com are copyright ©
Website design and hosting: Robert Engle, New York City.