Let us take you in full comfort and safety on a guided tour of the Val d’Ayas, between Brusson and Champoluc. From the scent of fresh milk in historic mountain fromageries to the tasting of traditional cheeses, and the fascinating visit to the Brusson gold mines, this itinerary lets you experience the true authenticity of the Val d’Ayas. Stroll through alpine pastures, enjoy a typical lunch at a mountain farmhouse or treat yourself to a moment of well-being at the Champoluc thermal baths while admiring the mountain views. Then descend into the heart of the mountain to discover the ancient crafts of the past. A complete experience of nature, flavor and culture in the most enchanting corners of the Aosta Valley.
Culture | Food & Wine
From Milk to Gold: Val d’Ayas Tour Discovering Mines and Traditions
An experience among alpine pastures, local products and history.
Group trip
Useful info
The Journey at a Glance
Your Journey
Imagine the scent of freshly milked dairy in the alpine pastures of the Val d’Ayas, the fresh mountain air of Brusson and Champoluc, and the evocative silence of the ancient gold mines of the Aosta Valley. A day that begins among local products and artisan cheeses, continues with authentic landscapes, moments of flavor and relaxation – even at the Champoluc thermal baths – and ends deep inside the mountain, where history comes alive. A guided tour featuring local products, local history, and ancient traditions, perfect for those who want to experience the Aosta Valley with all five senses.
Itinerary
9:00 AM – Departure from the agreed meeting points (Aosta or Saint-Vincent)
Organized transfer to Brusson, in the heart of the Val d’Ayas (Aosta Valley), to enjoy a guided tour filled with emotions, authentic flavors, and ancient Alpine traditions.
10:00 AM – Guided visit to a local fromagerie
Discover how traditional Aosta Valley cheeses are made during an immersive visit to a historic fromagerie: an authentic experience of ancient know-how and the scents of the mountains.
11:15 AM – Brunch with local products
Savor typical products of the Aosta Valley, including artisanal cured meats, mountain cheeses, and traditional bread, for a genuine moment of taste.
Afternoon – Free time with two options:
- Entry to the Champoluc thermal baths: Enjoy 4 hours of pure relaxation in panoramic hot springs surrounded by nature and silence.
- Farmhouse experience in Brusson: Free lunch (not included) featuring local products, followed by a visit to the barn, the milking area, and the cheese-aging cellar. Free time to relax in the tranquility of nature.
4:45/5:00 PM – Meeting point and transfer to the Brusson mines
6:00 PM – Guided visit to the mines and underground tasting
Live a fascinating journey into the ancient gold mines of the Val d’Ayas: evocative tunnels that tell the story of the territory. The day ends with a tasting of local products inside the mines, in a unique atmosphere of history and authentic flavors.
Please note: Timetables are approximate and may vary slightly for organizational reasons.
Available until August 29, 2025.
Mood of travel
Imagine a day scented with freshly milked dairy in the alpine pastures of the Val d’Ayas, where the fresh mountain air and silence precede the fascinating darkness of the ancient Brusson gold mines. Slow walks through authentic landscapes, eyes filled with wonder, and the true flavors of the Aosta Valley’s local products. From the bright light of the peaks to the heart of the underground tunnels, discover local history, ancient Alpine traditions, and crafts that have stood the test of time. A guided experience in the Aosta Valley among unspoiled nature, Alpine culture, and authentic flavors for those seeking a deep sensory journey.
Rules and characteristics
- Transfers
Organized transfers between locations in comfortable minivans or minibuses. - Participants
Minimum: 4 people – Maximum: 8 people. Suitable for families with children aged 6 and up. - What to bring
A filled water bottle, light backpack, and personal snacks if desired. - Schedule
The times provided are approximate and may vary due to organizational needs or logistical conditions. - Choice of afternoon experience
When booking, please indicate your preferred option:
Thermal Spa: pure relaxation in a panoramic thermal center. Please specify if you’d like to add a light lunch and/or a wellness kit (bathrobe, towel, slippers), available upon request for an additional fee.
Farm Experience: includes a short but moderately challenging walk and a guided tour of the barn, milking area, and cheese-aging cellar. Ideal for those who want to experience authentic mountain life up close.
It’s up to each participant to choose the experience that best suits their interests and pace.
Useful info/ travel documents
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Useful Information. Recommended clothing: Comfortable clothing suitable for museum visits, excursions, and tastings. Swimsuit if you choose the Champoluc thermal baths option.
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Dress in layers and bring warm clothing, especially for the visit to the Brusson mines where the temperature is very low.
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Comfortable or trekking shoes, windproof/waterproof jacket, hat, and a water bottle are strongly recommended.
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Documents: Valid ID card or passport.
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Weather conditions: The excursion takes place even in light bad weather. In case of weather conditions that could compromise safety, the activity will be canceled and an alternative date will be offered.
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Brunch and Aperitif
Shared
24/7 Assistance
Health insurance
What is included
- Full-day transfer service, with departure and return from Aosta and Saint-Vincent
- Guided visit to a local fromagerie
- Brunch with traditional local products
- Afternoon experience of your choice:
Admission to the thermal spa (without wellness kit and lunch)
Or guided visit to a farmhouse, including access to the barn, milking area, and cheese-aging cellar - Guided tour of the Brusson mines
- Final tasting inside the mine galleries
- Dedicated tour leader for the entire day
What is not included
- Lunch at the farmhouse (optional and at your own expense)
- Wellness kit at the spa (bathrobe, towel, slippers) – available for an additional fee
- Light lunch at the spa – available on request for an additional fee
- Personal expenses and extra purchases
- Anything not expressly mentioned under “What’s Included”
Faq
Frequent
questions
If you have doubts, we have the answer
In our FAQ section you will find clear and fast answers to the most common doubts. Take a look, the solution you are looking for is just a click away!
Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Yes, the itinerary is suitable for all ages. Some activities include short walks on natural terrain but do not require specific physical preparation.
How are the transfers organized during the day?
Transfers are organized in comfortable minibuses or coaches, with departure and return from Aosta and Saint-Vincent. They are included in the experience price.
Can I choose how to spend the afternoon?
Yes, at the time of booking you can choose between two options for the afternoon:
- Relax at the thermal spa, with access to the panoramic spa center (wellness kit and lunch not included)
- Guided visit to a farmhouse, including a tour of the barn, milking area, and cheese aging cellar
Is lunch included?
A brunch with local specialties is included mid-morning. Lunch is not included in the farmhouse experience. However, a light lunch at the spa can be added upon request for an additional fee.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing: A filled water bottle; A light backpack; Personal snacks, if desired; Comfortable, layered clothing (especially for the mine visit, where it can be cold), Comfortable shoes or hiking boots
What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience takes place even in light rain. In case of conditions that compromise safety, an alternative date will be offered.
Is the visit to the mines physically demanding?
No, it is a guided visit suitable for everyone, conducted safely and without any particular physical challenges.