Antagnod: a pearl among the Alps

To immerse yourself in the grace of the Alpine landscapes, warmed by the high sun on the ski slopes, the village of Antagnod is certainly the destination of choice. Located at 1700 m above sea level, it dominates the Val d’Ayas, offering a splendid view of Monte Rosa. The village, extremely warm and welcoming, also offers a pass to Switzerland, while greeting tourists with its wonderful ski slopes to enjoy throughout the winter season. InItaly therefore offers in this article a complete overview of the highlights of this village in the Aosta Valley, an ideal place for family stays and more.

Antagnod: land among the slopes

The village of the Aosta Valley is renowned for its splendid ski slopes that attract families and skiers, both amateurs and professionals, from everywhere. Part of the Monterosa Ski area, it consists mostly of easy slopes. In fact, 62% are blue slopes, while the remaining 38% are red and black, with a clear predominance of red ones. For these reasons, it is an ideal destination for beginner skiers.

Near Antagnod, moreover, there are other important ski resorts, known worldwide. The village is only 4 km from Champoluc, also popular in summer for its mountain-bike trails. Just 10 km away is Brusson, a center also involved in the world Nordic skiing circuit.

Here is the price list:

Half-day skipass: €19.00 Daily skipass: €25.00 6-day skipass: €130.00

... Village, a pearl among the Alps

The village of the Aosta Valley outlines the classic mountain-style settlement, with charming and warm wooden houses and the typical rustic, pointed roofs. Among the alleys, where one can wander to feel the grace of mountain life, stand out some characteristic monuments. Particularly noteworthy are: the Church of San Martino da Tours, the Museum of Sacred Art of Ayas, and the splendid Villa Rivetti, from which it is possible to admire the magnificence of the Monte Rosa valley.

The Church of San Martino da Tours is strictly of Baroque origin, although it was only dedicated in 1852 to the French saint. The entire architecture gives particular prominence to the main altar, the result of several centuries of work (1500–1800) and horizontally divided into three sections. The central area dates back to the early 18th century (but the five statues in the niches are certainly older and can be assigned to the 16th century). The lower and upper areas were made in 1713 by the carvers Gilardi and Minaldi from Valsesia. Around the mid-19th century, the parish priest Dandrès had the tabernacle rebuilt. The altar was consecrated on May 29, 1716.

Also noteworthy is the Museum of Sacred Art of Ayas. The museum is located in the cemetery chapel of Antagnod (late 15th century), next to the parish church of San Martino. In the chapel, which also served as the seat of the various confraternities existing in the parish, there was also a painting belonging to the confraternity of the Holy Trinity, which is now displayed in the nearby parish church.

On the façade of the cemetery chapel are placed a statue of Our Lady of the Rosary and a large Cross with symbols of the instruments of torture used in the Passion of Jesus.

Antagnod: land of flavors

For the village of the Aosta Valley, the food and wine impact is certainly very significant. Dishes based on cheeses produced by local citizens, combined with the typical polenta of the area and both beef and pork meats, can offer a first-class experience for the palate.

In strictly rustic locations (which suit the atmosphere of the entire municipality in the Val d’Ayas), expert chefs delight tourists with great skill, at extremely modest prices. An ideal experience, especially for families.

How to reach Antagnod?

To reach the Val d’Ayas by car, take the A5 motorway and exit at Verrès. The SR45 crosses the entire valley, leading up to Antagnod. The nearest railway station to the village is in Verrès, 27 km to the south (public transport ensures regular connections).

The nearest airport is Turin-Caselle, 106 km away.

InItaly wishes you a pleasant trip to the pearl of the Alps!

Cover photo credits: Katerina Samsonova