Val di Susa – Piedmont: historic passes, majestic mountains and a valley open to travel. The Val di Susa extends from Turin to the French border, crossing the Cottian Alps. It is one of the largest and most historically rich Alpine valleys in Europe, a crossroads of peoples and trade since ancient times. Between castles, abbeys, high-altitude paths and medieval villages, the valley combines spectacular landscapes and testimonies of millenary civilizations. 🏰 Millenary history and symbolic architecture: From Roman times to medieval religion, the valley preserves unique testimonies: the archaeological complex of Susa, the majestic Abbey of Novalesa and above all the Sacra di San Michele, perched on the rock and visible from miles away. Each era has left its mark along the valley. 👉 Tip: Walk up to the Sacra di San Michele following the pilgrims' path from Sant'Ambrogio: a path immersed in the woods with a view of the plain. ⛰️ Mountains for every season: The peaks of the Val di Susa lend themselves to numerous outdoor activities: from excursions to Rocciamelone and Monte Chaberton, to winter snowshoeing and skiing in the towns of Bardonecchia, Sestriere and Cesana. The views range as far as Monviso and the French peaks. 👉 Tip: In summer, walk the Balcony Trail above Bussoleno for spectacular views of the valley and the western Alps. 🚶 Spiritual and cultural paths: The Val di Susa is crossed by the Via Francigena, which connects Canterbury to Rome. Ancient stretches of the path lead through woods, meadows, votive chapels and silent villages. It is a spiritual and landscape path at the same time, also suitable for occasional walkers. 👉 Tip: Walk from Avigliana to Chiusa di San Michele: a short stretch, rich in history and nature, with a stop at the Avigliana lakes. 🏘️ Villages, fortresses and alpine culture: Towns such as Susa, Oulx, Exilles and Chiomonte tell stories of frontiers and mountain architecture. The historic centers are animated by local markets, museums and re-enactments. Fortresses, such as the Fort of Exilles, can be visited and offer spectacular views. 👉 Tip: Stop in Chiomonte for a visit to the art gallery and a tasting of wines from the valley, in one of the cellars carved into the rock. 🍇 Wine, cheeses and border flavors: The cuisine of the Susa Valley reflects the encounter between Alpine and Piedmontese culture: alpine cheeses, polenta, cured meats and rustic desserts. Among the symbolic products is the Avanà wine, grown on dry terraces, and the toma del Moncenisio, produced in the mountain pastures. 👉 Tip: In summer, attend one of the village festivals to savor traditional dishes cooked on the spot, with music and conviviality. The Val di Susa is a valley of crossing and memory, where every road and every path tell of the passage of men, ideas and mountains.