Italian Alps Hiking Tours | Italian Alps

Italian Alps & Aosta Valley

Highlights

Explore Roman ruins in Aosta, the region’s capital
Hike classic walks in the foothills of the Matterhorn
Immerse yourself in the mountaineering culture in the alpine resort of Courmayeur
Discover an area rich in history, with castles and palaces, as well as alpine huts
Enjoy chocolates and truffles from the Piedmont region

The Alps in Italy stretch across the north of the country, bordering with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. While the Dolomite Mountains in the east are well-known for their impressive limestone peaks, the western side of the Alps should not be overlooked as an ideal hiking destination.

The Aosta Valley, known as the Heart of the Alps, has stunning scenery and rivals the experience on the Tour du Mont Blanc, but with much quieter trails. Keep an eye out for Roman ruins and castles for a dose of history alongside your hiking. Another way to discover this region is on the Via Francigana, known as the “Italian Camino,” and travel a portion of an ancient pilgrimage trail that goes from Canterbury to Rome. For those looking for a challenge, the Italian side of the Matterhorn is a gateway to alpine adventure. Of course, the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of Europe’s more iconic routes, passes through the Italian Alps with a visit to the alpine haven of Courmayeur.

The foothills of the Italian Alps offer even more areas to explore. If you’re looking for a more relaxed adventure, consider the Italian Lakes, with a visit to Lake Como. In the southwest, the Piedmont region is world-renowned for exquisite wines and a rich culinary tradition. What better way to explore than on foot and work up an appetite?

From valleys to peaks, Northern Italy and the Italian Alps has so much to offer. A self-guided hiking trip with Macs Adventure is an ideal way to explore this quieter corner of the Alps.

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Discover Italian Alps & Aosta Valley

Where are the Italian Alps?

The Italian Alps, a majestic mountain range, span the northern border of Italy, forming a natural frontier with neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. The Alps in Italy offer some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Europe, perfect for a hiking tour.

The Aosta Valley, located in the western Alps, is renowned for its majestic peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, and offers rugged trails that lead through pristine valleys and past ancient castles. It's a paradise for hikers seeking both challenging ascents and serene alpine meadows.
The Dolomites in the eastern Alps are famous for their striking, jagged limestone formations and vibrant sunsets. The Dolomites' trails range from easy walks to demanding via ferratas, winding through dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and charming mountain villages.
Dolomite FAQs

Are the Dolomites part of the Italian Alps?
Yes! The Dolomite Mountains are part of the Italian Alps. Located in northeastern Italy, the Dolomites are known for their dramatic peaks and unique limestone formations, and are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most popular routes in the Dolomites is the renowned long-distance hiking trail, the Alta Via 1.

What is a Via Ferrata?
The Dolomites are the birthplace of the via ferrata (iron paths), which are protected climbing routes that were originally created during World War I to help soldiers navigate the mountainous terrain. Today, these routes are popular with adventure-seeking hikers and climbers.
Piedmont, Italy – Wine, Truffles & Hazelnuts
- Piedmont is home to the world's finest hazelnuts, famously used by the Ferrero family to create Nutella.
- The region is known for its white truffles, particularly from Alba, which are highly prized in gourmet cuisine.
- Piedmont produces some of Italy's most famous wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco.
- The Slow Food movement was founded in Piedmont, emphasizing sustainable and traditional food practices.
- Trails meandering through pastoral landscapes dotted with historic castles and idyllic towns.