At the foot of the alps, where Italy meets with France and Switzerland, is Piedmont. With the Aosta Valley as its neighbour, these two regions bring us the finest in wines, stunning Italian estates and countryside charm.

Piedmont, as its name may suggest, lies at the foot of mountains. With the Alps cornering it on three sides, the scenery is beautiful and dramatic. And though many may only venture to Courmayeur for the snow, the region has offerings throughout the seasons. Notably hiking through its lush mountains, and spending a few nights in the capital, Turin, where you can admire the great works of the Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical amongst others.

Inching closer to the borders with France and Switzerland is the Aosta Valley, with a unique blend of French and Italian cultures called Valdostan, offering a different take on cuisine linked to the Alpine regions of France. Here too is where the best snow sport conditions on the continent are found. Follows the breathtaking trails of the Pavillon du Mt Frety Nature Oasis amongst others. Visit the Giardino Botanico Alpino Saussurea, and you may be lucky enough to spot marmots, deer and ibexes among the brightly coloured flowers.