Visit the Savoia Castle in Aosta Valley

Castello Savoia stands out in Gressoney-Saint-Jean. Its scenic look catches your eye from afar. It's one of the most charming castles in Valle d'Aosta. It wasn't built for defense or show, but for living.

Queen Margherita of Savoy wanted it. She fell in love with the area during summer stays with the Beck-Peccoz barons. So, she decided to make it her home. Not an official residence, but an alpine retreat. She wanted to escape court life in summer. You can still feel this today. The castle feels like a cozy home, not cold or monumental.

You can visit the interiors only with a guide. They still have the furniture Queen Margherita used. The original castle was lost over time, but much of the furniture is genuine. Some pieces came from Villa Margherita. Original ceilings, woodwork, and wallpapers make the rooms clear and authentic. The guided tour adds value. Guides share stories and context without overwhelming you. You must book in advance. The tour costs 10 euros per person.

Inside, the wooden staircase and veranda stand out. They show the castle's eclectic architecture. There's no single dominant style, just a mix of influences. The building reflects the queen's personal taste, not a specific architectural trend.

Reaching Castello Savoia is easy, but choose the right path. There's a small parking lot near the entrance. It's handy if you're short on time. Or, park at Lago Gover and walk up the Camminata della Regina. It's a peaceful, half-hour forest walk that sets the mood for your visit.

Outside the castle, there's a botanical garden. It's always open and adds to the experience.

The guided tour lasts about an hour. With a park walk and a village stroll, plan for at least half a day.

In the village, you can enjoy typical Valle d'Aosta dishes! That's a big plus for me.