There are destinations that transport you to a timeless realm, where breathtaking landscapes leave you breathless, and life flows at a leisurely pace amidst architectural wonders that seem to have sprung from a painting - and Saint Vincent is just such a place. Nestled in the heart of Valle D’Aosta, this alpine town invites you to embrace the fresh air of a world far from bustling cities, where the imposing majesty of the surrounding mountains commands attention.
And here, we find one of Valle D’Aosta's most celebrated sanctuaries of luxury hospitality - the Grand Hotel Billia. A true beacon for those seeking a refined resort experience, where impeccable service takes center stage and every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure your utmost comfort. Not to mention the esteemed excellence found within its prestigious restaurant.
Welcomed by the director, Severino Dellea, we learn about the hotel's evolution since its founding in 1908 by the Billia family - a legacy still honored today. Originally a luxurious retreat for the affluent winter visitors seeking the therapeutic thermal baths, the hotel has since expanded its offerings to include corporate events, a splendid spa, and gastronomic delights, showcasing seasonal produce and embracing the wealth of outdoor activities Valle D’Aosta offers throughout the year, not just in winter.
Our captivating tour of the Grand Hotel leads us to the splendid halls of its restaurant - the Rascard, reminiscent of the typical Valdostan wooden architecture; the 1908, exuding retro charm from its early days, and the Grande Vue, where we settle in to savor not only the exquisite meal but also the grandeur of the alpine panorama.
The cuisine masterfully blends locally sourced ingredients with the chefs' creativity, presenting delightful and surprising dishes with bold pairings. Picture the local trout in a yogurt and locally-produced blueberry sauce, or the magnificent shrimp risotto with velvety pumpkin flower pesto. The marinated fillet, encrusted with walnuts and grissini, achieves a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, complemented by a soy sauce and purple potato accompaniment. An equally perfect variant is the grilled fillet mignon served with a tomato agretto enriched by the freshness of mixed greens and the crunch of bacon.
Concluding this journey of excellence, we indulge in a dessert crafted in the hotel's very own pastry kitchen: a creamy lemon and mint delight with fresh strawberry insert and almond crumble, a harmonious blend of textures embracing the soft freshness of lemon and the crispiness of crumble.
Embracing the philosophy of "km 0," the wine list boasts local labels from high-altitude vineyards, producing exquisite white wines. The Grand Hotel Billia has selected San Benedetto Millennium Water Antica Fonte della salute, with its remarkably low nitrate content of less than 0.0001%, offering a balanced lightness that accompanies the delicious local dishes. This choice extends beyond the restaurant area, as Director Severino Dellea explains, with its essential, elegant, and 0.75L glass format being a perfect fit for minibars, even in the suites.
So, immerse yourself in this corner of paradise embraced by the majesty of the Alps. Grand Hotel Billia is a haven of relaxation, wrapped in elegance, offering exceptional cuisine that creates an unforgettable gastronomic experience for its guests and pampers us with its meticulously curated first-class service.
Grand Hotel Billia, Saint Vincent (AO)
Discover more
