We have been to Noussan 8 times in summer, winter and fall and we think that the Lomas' house is really paradise. The accommodation is modern and nicely decorated. You can eat in a cosy dining area with large windows with the view on the mountains. In summer, the warmth of the late afternoons allows you to have a drink or eat on the balcony with the same view. Noussan is a quiet hamlet with old stone houses typical of the Alps. Tranquillity is guaranteed for those who not looking for a crowd of people and trendy nightlife.

In summer, you can walk directly from the house onto paths in the high meadows and woods with magnificent views on Cervino (the Matterhorn). Monterosa and many other snowy peaks. If you wish you can climb steep paths to reach the summits of different mountains like Tantane right above Noussan. We had many memorable picnics with stunning views eating great sandwiches made with good prosciutto, salami and Fontina (regional cheese). We greatly appreciate not having to fear the grizzlies or the mountain lions like in the Rockies. In fact, the most dangerous animal you might meat is a 'chamois', the shy mountain goat.... Usually we meet cows with bells around their necks! After a great day of hiking, the glass of wine one the balcony admiring the sun setting behind the mountains is a true moment of peace.

In winter, the location of the accommodation allows you to ski in many different resorts and you can choose according to the weather. The Aosta Valley is situated in the southern part of the Alps and enjoys a lot of sunny days with blue skies. Skiing in that region offers really good snow conditions and hundreds of kilometres of slopes, always with a view on the white peaks. It is also possible to go for a quiet walk with snow shoes.

For us, another considerable advantage is the food on the slopes for lunch. You can always find typical Italian or Aostan cuisine and we love stopping for pasta on a sunny terrace.

You can find good regional food and incredible wines in the shop in Antey, 10 minutes from Noussan. Valtournenche also offers many fine shops for wines, food and typical handicrafts from the Alps. There are also good restaurants with pastas, pizzas and regional specialities. These are the reasons why, even if we have to cross the Atlantic Ocean to go to Noussan, we have visited so many times and will certainly come back!

Lise-Anne Desjardins and Paul Granda
Montréal Québec
Canada