Aosta, Italy

AOSTA, the attractive mountain-valley capital of Valle d'Aosta province, is an ideal base for exploring the northwest of the region. Surrounded by the Alps, the town's key attraction is its position: with access to the lovely valleys of the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso, the ski resorts of Mont Blanc, and a sprinkling of castles in between. Founded by the Romans in 25 BC Aosta was primarily an imperial military camp, vestiges of which can be seen in the extensive ruins of some towers and city walls. Remains of medieval Aosta predominate, its narrow cobbled streets and overhanging upper storeys giving the place a very alpine air.