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Farming and local produce: centuries of cultivation
Today's mountain landscapes were shaped by crop and livestock farmers who carved the Alpine pastures out of the original forests and scrublands. Many generations lived off the grasslands and transformed the gifts of nature into many kinds of local produce.
When you walk in the Pays du Mont-Blanc, it is difficult to imagine just how much the area's gracious living owes to the hill farmers. From the mountain pastures which become ski pistes in winter to the hamlets which have protected their authenticity, it is this image of the mountain which makes it so attractive. The Pays du Mont-Blanc would not be what it is today without its farmers. Due to them, the charm of our hamlets and villages remains intact. Traditional homes which have kept their souls have all modern amenities and historical and cultural events symbolise a deep-rooted belief in hospitality and sharing. The transhumance of the herds up to and down from the mountain pastures, cow fighting and the agricultural shows are all authentic and enjoyable moments to discover. And in the logic of this country culture, the Art of Living features marvellous, local, absolutely healthy and natural produce - fruit from the orchards, plants from the alpine meadows, milk from the mountain pastures, honey from bees gorged on the pollen of wild flowers and animals fed on summer hay! Part of the mountain tradition. To savour at a farm or one of the many weekly town and village markets!
