Settled in the 13th century by German-speaking Walsers, Alagna Valsesia is a UNESCO-listed alpine town in Piedmont. It is clustered with traditional buildings dating back to the 16th century and serves as a base for hikers, mountaineers and off-piste skiers exploring the rugged wilderness of Monte Rosa.
Things to do in Alagna Valsesia
Stroll through the heart of Alagna Valsesia to admire the Church of Saint John the Baptist, a 16th-century building topped by a square-shaped tower and spire. It houses several sculptures by Giovanni d’Enrico, who was active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Nearby is a house once belonging to Tanzio da Varallo, an Italian painter of the Baroque period.
In the summer months, you can explore Alagna Valsesia’s alpine landscapes along one of the area’s many hiking trails. Visit ancient hamlets on the Frazioni di Alagna Valsesia Trail or hike the nine challenging stages of the Tour Monte Rosa. Alagna is also the starting point for trekking to the highest hut in Europe, which sits atop the 4,559-metre-high peak of Gnifetti.
Alagna Valsesia forms part of Monterosa Ski, a huge ski resort that connects three valleys at the base of one of the Alps’ highest peaks. Due to the morphological shape of its main valley, Alagna Valsesia has been nicknamed the “Freeride Capital of the World” and offers plenty of un-groomed trails that take in Monte Rosa’s magnificent scenery.
Getting around Alagna Valsesia
Alagna Valsesia is around an hour’s drive from Gattinara and just over two hours from the centre of Milan. Malpensa Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Alagna Valsesia and the town is small enough to explore on foot.