Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gran Paradiso

Waterfalls and Wonders

Today was a day of chasing waterfalls and soaking in the natural beauty of Gran Paradiso. Aoife and I set out with a sense of adventure, eager to explore the hidden gems tucked away in this stunning landscape. We knew today would be memorable, but little did we know just how much we would discover.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Lanterna del Duca in Ceresole Reale. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. I opted for a simple yet satisfying breakfast of crusty bread with local cheese and a steaming cup of coffee. Aoife, ever the adventurous one, chose a slice of polenta, a regional specialty. The polenta, creamy and rich, was the perfect fuel for our morning hike. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a delightful start to our day. It reminded me of the simple, hearty breakfasts I used to have back in Kluang, Malaysia, before a long day of work.

With our bellies full, we drove towards Noasca, our first destination: Cascata di Noasca. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. As we approached Noasca, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. We parked the car in the village center and followed the signs leading to the waterfall. The path was well-maintained, though a bit steep in places. Aoife, ever the energetic one, bounded ahead, her red hair a vibrant splash of color against the green landscape. I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the sights and sounds around me. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth.

The Cascata di Noasca was truly a sight to behold. The water cascaded down the rocks with tremendous force, creating a misty spray that kissed our faces as we approached. The sheer power of the waterfall was mesmerizing, and we spent a good while simply watching it, listening to the roar of the water. We even ventured behind the waterfall, an experience that was both thrilling and a little daunting. The view from behind the curtain of water was surreal, with the village of Noasca framed in the distance.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Cascata di Noasca, a stunning waterfall in Gran Paradiso National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After Noasca, we set our sights on Rutor Falls. The drive to La Thuile was equally scenic, passing through charming villages and lush meadows. As we neared the trailhead, the landscape transformed, becoming more rugged and mountainous. We parked the car and began our hike towards the falls. The trail was steeper and more challenging than the one at Noasca, but the promise of stunning views kept us going. We passed through forests of pine and larch, the air filled with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. The sun peeked through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path.

The Rutor Falls are actually a series of three distinct waterfalls, each more impressive than the last. The first waterfall was relatively easy to reach, a short 25-minute walk from the trailhead. The second and third waterfalls required a more strenuous climb, but the effort was well worth it. The views from the top were breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of Mont Blanc and the surrounding glaciers. Aoife and I took our time, stopping frequently to catch our breath and admire the scenery. We even spotted a few chamois grazing on the slopes, their sleek bodies blending seamlessly with the rocky terrain.


Explore Rutor Falls, a stunning cascade in Aosta Valley, perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking breathtaking views and serene landscapes.

By lunchtime, we were both ravenous. We decided to stop at Brasserie Les Pertzes in Cogne for a well-deserved meal. The brasserie was bustling with activity, filled with hikers and locals alike. We managed to snag a table on the terrace, which offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains. I ordered a hearty plate of *cervo* (deer) with polenta, while Aoife opted for the *cinghiale* (wild boar). The food was delicious, the flavors rich and satisfying. The polenta, a staple of the region, was creamy and comforting, the perfect accompaniment to the gamey meat. We washed it all down with a bottle of local red wine, savoring each sip as we soaked in the atmosphere.


Discover authentic Aosta Valley flavors at Brasserie Les Pertzes – where local cuisine meets warm hospitality in Cogne.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We stopped by Vertical Store Aosta, a shop specializing in outdoor gear and clothing. I was hoping to find a new hat to protect me from the sun, while Aoife was on the lookout for a lightweight hiking jacket. The store was well-stocked with a wide range of products, and the staff were friendly and helpful. I ended up buying a stylish cap, while Aoife found a jacket that was both practical and fashionable. It's always nice to support local businesses, especially those that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.


Explore the best sportswear and gear at Vertical Store Aosta, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventure in the Aosta Valley.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Le Barmé de l'Ours in Rhemes-saint-georges for dinner. This restaurant had been highly recommended by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. The menu featured traditional Valdostan cuisine with a modern twist, and we were impressed by the creative use of local ingredients. I started with a *zuppa di Valpelline*, a hearty soup made with cabbage and Fontina cheese, while Aoife chose the *mocetta*, a cured meat specialty of the region. For our main courses, I opted for the *carbonade*, a beef stew cooked in red wine, while Aoife chose the *polenta concia*, a creamy polenta dish with melted cheese. The food was exquisite, each dish bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable.


Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst the stunning scenery of Aosta Valley at Le Barmé de l'Ours.

What truly stood out was their willingness to cater to dietary preferences. I overheard another patron requesting a vegan meal, and the chef happily composed a full vegan menu, including a zucchini starter with ice cream and a filling bear salad. It reminded me of my own restaurant in Dublin, where we always strive to accommodate our customers' needs and preferences. The meal was a perfect end to a perfect day, and we left feeling satisfied and content.

As we drove back to our campsite, the stars began to appear in the night sky. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. We reflected on the day's adventures, marveling at the beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park. From the cascading waters of Cascata di Noasca and Rutor Falls to the delicious local cuisine and the charming shops, every moment had been a delight. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this natural wonderland together.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit Arco di Augusto and Criptoportico Forense in Aosta. I'm looking forward to exploring the historical side of the region, and Aoife is excited to see the ancient Roman ruins. We'll start the day with breakfast at Albergo Gran Paradiso, followed by lunch at La Locanda dei Sognatori. In the evening, we'll unwind with dinner at LO SCIATORE Ristorante Bar and perhaps a drink at Gou bar. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I drift off to sleep under the starry sky, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Gran Paradiso National Park has exceeded all my expectations, and I know that the memories we're creating here will last a lifetime. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that take you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover the hidden gems that lie waiting to be explored.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself. It’s true, isn't it? Each place we visit, each experience we embrace, adds a new layer to our understanding of the world and ourselves. And as I continue this journey with Aoife, I know that there are many more adventures waiting just around the corner.

Goodnight from Gran Paradiso!