Au Rascard

Au Rascard is situated at an altitude of 1330 m above sea level, at the foot of Mount Rosa.  This corner of Val d’Ayas, in the autonomous region of Valle d’Aosta, is absolutely beautiful: set against the backdrop of Col de Joux Woods, the hotel is surrounded by the charming houses of Les Crêtes, a satellite hamlet of the town of Brusson.  The five buildings of this typical Italian alpine village have been recently and lovingly restored by the owners of Au Rascard. A mere 100 m away the internationally renowned “Trois Villages”, a Nordic cross-country ski trail, winds its way through the villages, and in Brusson there is also a shooting range approved for use in the Biathlon competitions.  On either sides of the town lie the ski resorts of Estoul-Palasinaz and Col de Joux whose facilities and gentle slopes, ideal for children and beginner adults, are within a 10-minute drive.   Alternatively, only 20 minutes away, is Champoluc, the most popular ski resort in the large Monterosa Ski area, which boasts 180 km of pistes connecting Val d’Ayas, Gressoney and Alagna, the latter located in the Piedmont region.

Au Rascard is a rustic chalet typical of the Valle d’Aosta region, a rascard in fact; this name was given to ancient cabins built by crisscrossing the logs and used as stables or barns.  The original building dated back to the 18th century and has been in the owners’ family for generations; recently rebuilt, it has nevertheless maintained the style of the old rascard and is in keeping with the architectural style of the other houses.  Au Rascard extends over two floors and features the characteristic sloping roof and wood balconies of the area, while reclaimed untreated fir panels and boards cover the walls and floors indoors. The owners are respectful of the local culture and artistic traditions, and their generous hospitality is certainly another trait of the communities of Val d’Ayas.  Their guests enjoy a feast of a breakfast prepared with local products, butter and homemade preserves, biscuits and cakes. Endless are the opportunities to explore the territory in all seasons: excursions of various difficulty levels and for all age groups are led by experienced guides that take the visitors up the glaciers or climbing on a Via Ferrata.  In the summer months the Aosta province offers even more ways to relax and enjoy one’s time, trekking and riding on horseback or mountain bike, to name but a few.

Au Rascard has six rooms, all with stunning views of the panorama of Valle d’Aosta, but four of them have balconies to step onto and breathe in the mountain air.  They are quintessentially rustic and very warm, the fir and larch wood of their furniture filling the space with its fragrance.  The spacious suite and two of the rooms feature lovely fireplaces that add to their charm and comfort.