Valpelline

Nestling among meadows and orchards at an altitude of 960 m, Valpelline is the village that lends its name to the entire valley. Village life was founded on farming, handicraft and mining. Until the early 20th century, it was known for its copper foundry and mines, which are now used as a storeroom for ageing wheels of fontina cheese. Adjacent to these storerooms, a visitor’s centre has been set up to illustrate the history, production and processing of this DOP-status cheese. Fontina is the principal ingredient of the village’s traditional dish – la seupa à la valpellinentse. An annual fête lasting several days is dedicated to this speciality. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Valpelline is the departure point for itineraries suitable for everyone, from easy walks to more demanding excursions to peaks such as the Becca di Viou. It is additional renowned by anglers for its 3 km trout fishing reserve along the Buthier mountain stream.