Macugnaga

Located in western Piedmont at the foot of the majestic east face of Monte Rosa, Macugnaga is an Alpine village of Walser origin. The Germanic Walser people first settled in this broad green valley in the 13th century. The culture and traditions of these people are still to be seen in the characteristic architecture of the chalets, in the ancient communal bread-ovens, in the traditional costumes worn on festive occasions, and in the Titsch language, still spoken by old people in the village.

You can find evidence of this ancient culture round every corner in Macugnaga, making it a striking example of this kind of village. The Dorf, for instance, is the tiny centre of the village, inhabited since the 13th century. Two museums are open to visitors: the Walser museum, in the hamlet of Borca, and the Mountain Museum, devoted to mountaineering, in the hamlet of Staffa.

The Chiesa Vecchia, the Old Church in the ancient Dorf, is also well worth a visit. It was originally built in the 13th century close to the cemetery, next to the splendid, centuries-old lime tree from the same period, the symbol of the community of Macugnaga.

The central location of the Hotel Residence Cima Jazzi means that the facilities of the town and the Walser attractions are within walking distance. The hotel itself fits perfectly into the Walser atmosphere, finished as it is in wood, stone and pale coloured plaster. The natural setting of Macugnaga, surrounded by larch and beech woods, emerald pastures and rushing waterfalls, makes it an ideal holiday spot for lovers of unspoiled mountains and authentic traditions.

• Map