Finding yourself in need of fresh air and relaxation? Why not try a quick mountain getaway in the Italian Alps? Today, we are taking you to Oulx, in Piemonte.
Although the valley is well-known by all the ski lovers, visiting the area in the summer also has its charms. Picture it: breathtaking landscapes, long walks to disconnect and recharge, picturesque villages and streets, time to yourself to read, sleep and enjoy every moment.
Some things to do
Go visit Sauze d’Oulx and walk around. Enjoy its adorable church and its little streets, very typical of a mountain village. You’ll find a lot of cute and cosy restaurants. Be careful, however, because most of them close when it’s off-season.
We have already told you about our hike on the Chaberton, which takes an entire day. Of course, in the mountains, there are tons of other pleasant walks you can try. A very easy one, yet very enjoyable, is the so-called Percorso des Ambrois in Oulx. It is not too long and doesn’t go up too much (perfect for me!). It will take you through gardens, small streets, a church, a medieval tower and more. Some signs along the way will also give you all the information you need about the local history.
What else nearby?
Less than one hour away by car, you can visit the old city of Briançon, on the other side of the border, in France. There, you can enjoy a great walk in a fortified city. The streets are beautiful and so are the landscapes all around it. To see a few pictures of our wonderful afternoon in Briançon, click here.
Where to eat
My best advice is to stop by the local market, to buy fresh products and cook them yourself. In Oulx, you can also try a little shop that sells fresh pasta (via Roma). Need I say more about the quality of local Italian food?
In Sestrière, my favorite place is l’Antica Spelonca. It’s quite cosy, with exposed stone walls. The warm “tommetta“ is a must!
Where to get a drink
Drive to Sauze di Cesana for a beer at Birreria El Rouet. This place is very atypical, in an old stable with wooden doors. Full of charm.
Going out
If you are into nightlife, your best bet is to go to Sestriere. I don’t have any particular address in mind, as for me, being in the mountains in the summer is all about relaxation, reading books and going to bed early.
Getting there
From Paris, there is a TGV leaving from Gare de Lyon that takes you directly to Oulx. It takes around 5 hours (more or less depending on the stops it makes in between) and it’s very convenient. You can also fly to Turin and drive.
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