Day 37 IT Aosta to Châtillon

Aosta to Châtillon: From Alpine Majesty to Valley Serenity

After several breathtaking days in Switzerland, it’s hard not to reflect on just how spectacular that leg of the journey was—soaring alpine peaks, pristine lakes, and charming villages made it unforgettable.

But now, crossing into Italy opens up a whole new chapter. The day began early, around 6:45 a.m., with the sun already high and the temperature climbing. I set off alongside the powerful Dora Baltea River, which rushes through the valley wide and fast. Its energy was infectious—an invigorating start to the day.

Aosta itself turned out to be a lively and historic city. Roman ruins, beautiful arches, and bustling piazzas give it a timeless charm. Locals and visitors alike filled the streets, soaking up the sun. I had my first proper Italian meal here—simple, fresh, and deeply satisfying.

As I followed the river out of town, I passed numerous football fields and training grounds, a clear sign of how deeply rooted the sport is in everyday life here. Watching kids at practice made me think about how central football is to the culture across much of Europe.

The terrain today was thankfully flat—a welcome reprieve after the brutal climbs and descents of previous days. While the scenery wasn’t dramatic, the steady, easy trail offered a different kind of pleasure. I settled into a relaxed rhythm and let the day unfold.

A new challenge, however, is starting to emerge: the heat. As the trail winds deeper into the valley, the temperatures are rising quickly. It’s no longer about altitude, but about endurance—managing the intense sun and conserving energy. From here on out, early starts will be key.

One of the day’s highlights was a visit to Fénis Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the region. Built in the 14th century by the powerful Challant family, the castle is known for its unique pentagonal design, multiple towers, and beautifully preserved frescoes. Perched on a small rise above the valley, it looks like something out of a fairytale. Inside, walking through narrow corridors and fortified courtyards, it was easy to imagine life in another era.

I ended the day in Châtillon, a peaceful little town that felt like the perfect place to unwind. There’s a calm serenity here—the kind of place where people know each other, stop to exchange greetings, and genuinely seem happy to see one another. It’s not as buzzing as Aosta, but that’s exactly what I needed.

Dinner was at a fantastic local restaurant that’s been serving guests for over a century—classic, wood-fired pizza that absolutely hit the spot. I closed out the evening on my private terrace, overlooking the hills as the last light faded. A perfect end to a memorable day.