Welcome to Roisan, the quaint Valdostan town that greets you amidst its mountains teeming with history and pristine nature.
Nestled within a bright hillside area, Roisan stands at an elevation of 870 meters, boasting views that stretch from Monte Emilius to Grivola, extending up to the Grand Combin. This slice of paradise is just 7 kilometers from Aosta, striking the perfect balance between the serenity of a mountain village and the lively proximity of the regional capital.
As you stroll through the town's streets, you can sense the deep breath of history rooted in the Roman era. Roisan's origins are intrinsically tied to the ancient road that offered an alternative route to the Colle del Gran San Bernardo, guiding travelers along the winding curves of the left orographic side of the Buthier stream.
The area's spirituality is epitomized in the Parish Church of San Vittore. Overlooking the town center, this sacred 15th-century structure mesmerizes with the depiction of San Vittore on its facade, transporting visitors back to the third century. Adding to the historical and artistic journey, the Castle of Rhins awaits, eager to recount medieval tales through the stones of its tower-fortress, accompanied by the seventeenth-century Chapel of the Apparition of Saint Michael.
Discovering Roisan also means diving into a realm of popular devotion, journeying amongst the numerous rural chapels that embellish the land, with the Chapel of Martinet standing as a silent testament to bygone times.
For nature and sports enthusiasts, Roisan presents a veritable earthly paradise. Trails of varying difficulties beckon one to walk or cycle alongside the "rus", ancient irrigation channels that sculpt the landscape. More daring hikes can lead up to the Becca di Viou, where you're treated to one of the most stunning vistas of the entire Valle d'Aosta. And for climbing aficionados, a well-equipped rock-climbing gym awaits just upstream from the main town.
Roisan proudly celebrates its traditions, and there's no better time to witness this than during the historical Carnevale of Coumba Freida. This event revives the tales and mysteries associated with the passage of Napoleonic troops in 1800. It's a unique chance to admire the "landzette", vibrant and eccentric masks that dance through the streets in a burst of color and joy.
Before ending your journey, let a piece of intriguing folklore surprise you: the Bridge of Calvin. Named after popular legend which asserts theologian John Calvin passed through Roisan in 1536, fleeing towards the Swiss Valais.
Roisan is easily accessible by public transport, making it an ideal starting point to explore all the wonders of Valle d'Aosta. We invite you to uncover this hidden gem; a land of history, nature, and traditions, where every nook tells a tale and every view takes your breath away.
