Driving from region to region, we became aware of Italy’s diverse and rich cultural heritage. At first blush it was the architecture. The “castle on every hill” and Roman ruins smack dab in the middle of town gave Aosta’s past away immediately. But as we explored the smaller towns of Alien and Saint Oyen, the Swiss and French influences became more apparent. Here in the Italian Alps near the French and Swiss boarder there was a more Tyrollean flavor. Hewn rock construction and slate tile roofs help keep the frigid winter air where it belongs.
It’s all about color and texture in this Italian courtyard. Who can resist pink and grey? The stone’s cold grey becomes an asset as a soothing background for the pink, red, and white pallet of geraniums. A placement of Dusty Miller in the foreground greenery pulls the grey off the walls and into the garden itself.
Your home makes a statement. Be sure to consider every aspect, including things that can be easily overlooked. Here in the valley almost every home is roofed with hand hewn slate tiles. Remarkably beautiful texture. Notice how this homeowner chose a complimentary stone color for the patio and surrounding walkways. This ties the whole landscape together and ties the house to the garden spaces.
You can stay at many of the farms around Italy. Called agriturismo, farm stays offer the tourist a local’s eye view. Experience the life of the farmer and eat daily fresh cuisine. You’ll work up an appetite scaling those stairs!
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