The Italian Alps: A Mosaic of Landscapes

Credit: Victoria Boyd

The Gesso Valley is rugged, wild, and sun-drenched due to its proximity to the Mediterranean sea. The region’s steep slopes are layered in rocks and boulders of all sizes, left behind in the Neolithic period by long gone glaciers. Credit: Victoria Boyd

A diverse range of wildlife calls the valley home, including marmots, chamois, ibex, and the largest wolf population in the Alps. As an area almost untouched by human presence, the Gesso Valley is a window into the Alps as they were 100 years ago. Credit: Victoria Boyd

As a highly inhabited area and a renowned tourist destination, the slopes of the Aosta Valley are a patchwork of green pastures and well-groomed forests. The highest mountains in the Alps, including the Mont Blanc (4810m) and the Matterhorn (4478m), tower above this carefully manicured region. Credit: Victoria Boyd

Due to its high elevation and northern latitude, the Aosta Valley experiences a much colder climate than other areas in the western Alps. As a result, the valley is characterized by extensive evergreen forests and white glaciers that stretch across the valleys like tumultuous rivers of ice. Credit: Victoria Boyd

Reaching nearly 3,000 metres, much of the Maira Valley stands above the tree limit. The absence of forests leaves wide open spaces that are perfect for pastures. Enormous granite rock formations emerge suddenly and tower above the pastures like blades of broken glass. The characteristics of this unique rock, as well as a relatively dry climate, provide excellent conditions for rock climbing. Credit: Victoria Boyd

Due to the conformation of the Alps and the mountain’s prominence above its surrounding peaks, the Rocca la Meja summit provides a 360 degree view of the Alps and the Maira Valley below. On a clear day, one can view faraway mountains that stand entirely on French and Swiss soil. Credit: Victoria Boyd

The valley’s northern exposure creates an interesting micro climate that resembles the northern Alps in Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia much more than its neighbouring mountains. The Pesio Valley experiences cool, rainy weather which creates the ideal conditions for the growth of the majestic white pine. Credit: Victoria Boyd

Vast white pine forests rise high above the slopes and seem to touch the sky. On a sunny day, golden light shines through the tall trees and dances across the earth in a way that evokes thoughts of fairy tale forests. Credit: Victoria Boyd

The Troncea Valley remains as one of the few wild corners in a highly developed downhill skiing destination. At a relatively low altitude, the valley is well forested and contains a unique mixture of six different types of pines including the Scots pine, Swiss pine, Silver fir, Larch, Norway spruce, and Mountain pine. Credit: Victoria Boyd

Mountain biking and cross country skiing along the long gravel path weaving through the valley are ideal activities for enjoying the peaceful solitude of the surrounding mountains. The only other sound one will hear rising above the valley’s sweet silence is the babbling waters on a long, winding brook. Credit: Victoria Boyd