From sunlit meadows scented with wild thyme to high passes where the sky feels close enough to touch, the Italian face of the Matterhorn holds a world of beauty and challenge for every hiker.Matterhorn Footpaths: A Hiker's Journey Through Italy's High Valley Trails is both a vivid travel memoir and a practical hiking companion. Drawing on years of trekking through the Valle d'Aosta, the author takes readers along glacial lakes, ancient trade routes, and secluded alpine villages - revealing not just the trails, but the culture, history, and heart of this extraordinary region.Inside you'll find: Detailed trail descriptions for day hikes and multi-day treks on the Italian side of Monte CervinoSeasonal advice to help you plan the perfect hiking windowGear lists, safety tips, and insider knowledge for alpine trekkingCultural insights into Aosta Valley traditions, cuisine, and festivalsFirst-hand stories of mountain life, encounters with locals, and the quiet magic of the AlpsWhether you dream of crossing the Colle del Theodulo, picnicking beside Lac Bleu, or simply breathing in the crisp air of a high meadow, this guide will help you step confidently into one of Europe's most breathtaking landscapes.