Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gran Paradiso

A Royal Ramble Through History

Today, Aoife and I embarked on a delightful journey through the Aosta Valley, trading the rugged trails of Gran Paradiso for a taste of history and culture. It was a day filled with royal intrigue, rustic charm, and, of course, delicious Italian food. Sometimes, it's good to take a break from the wilderness and immerse oneself in the stories of the past, and that's exactly what we did.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Old Grizzly in Cogne. The cozy atmosphere and traditional fare were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I had a simple yet satisfying breakfast of local cheese and bread, while Aoife opted for a sweet pastry and coffee. It's amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day! The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. It reminded me of the warm hospitality I try to offer at my own restaurant back in Dublin.


Experience authentic Italian alpine cuisine at Old Grizzly in Aosta Valley - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we set off to Maison Bruil di Introd. This fascinating museum offered a glimpse into the traditional life of the Aosta Valley. The exhibits showcased the architecture and culture of the region, giving us a deeper understanding of the people who have called this place home for centuries. Aoife was particularly captivated by the displays of traditional costumes and tools. I found myself drawn to the old kitchen, imagining the countless meals that had been prepared within those walls. It made me think of my own culinary journey, from learning to cook in my mother's kitchen in Kluang to running my own restaurant in Dublin.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Aosta Valley at Maison Bruil, an enchanting museum showcasing local traditions and history.

History is not just a collection of dates and names, but a tapestry of human experiences, woven together over time.

Next on our itinerary was the Castello Reale di Sarre. This royal castle, once a hunting residence for the Savoy family, offered a glimpse into the lives of Italian royalty. The castle overlooks the Aosta Valley, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As we wandered through the elegantly furnished rooms, I couldn't help but imagine the lavish parties and royal gatherings that had taken place within these walls. The gallery of hunting trophies was particularly striking, a testament to the Savoy family's passion for the outdoors. Aoife, ever the librarian, was fascinated by the castle's history, poring over the information plaques and sharing interesting tidbits with me. The castle has a hall for 112 people that can be used for meetings or exclusive evenings.


Explore the enchanting Castello Reale di Sarre, a historic castle nestled in the breathtaking Aosta Valley, rich in history and architectural beauty.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, it was time for lunch. We headed to La Cave de Cogne Osteria & Bottiglieria, a charming restaurant in Cogne. The restaurant has a fantastic wine selection, and the owner and staff are very attentive. The restaurant also has a lovely terrace, but we decided to eat inside. The cozy interior, with its stone and wood accents, was the perfect setting for a relaxed lunch. I ordered a plate of tagliatelle, while Aoife chose a local cheese platter. Both were delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that make Italian cuisine so special. We shared a bottle of local wine, savoring the flavors and enjoying the leisurely pace of the meal.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine paired with exquisite wines at La Cave de Cogne Osteria & Bottiglieria in picturesque Aosta Valley.

In the late afternoon, we stopped by 3ndy Bar Restaurant for a drink. It was a laid-back spot, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. We sat outside, enjoying the warm sunshine and the stunning views of the mountains. I sipped on a glass of local beer, while Aoife opted for an Aperol spritz. We chatted about our day, reminiscing about the sights we had seen and the experiences we had shared.


Experience the charm of Aosta Valley at 3ndy Bar Restaurant, where exceptional coffee meets delightful ambiance.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Hostellerie De L'Atelier for dinner. This restaurant, known for its traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere, was the perfect end to our day of exploration. I ordered a hearty polenta dish, while Aoife chose a delicate risotto. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the kind of meal that leaves you feeling content and satisfied, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Hostellerie De L'Atelier in Cogne – where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these moments of cultural immersion. While I love the thrill of hiking and exploring the wilderness, there's something equally rewarding about delving into the history and culture of a place. And, of course, sharing these experiences with Aoife makes them all the more special.

Tomorrow, we're planning to venture back into the great outdoors, heading to Cascata di Noasca and Rutor Falls. I'm looking forward to seeing these natural wonders and breathing in the fresh mountain air. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, a day of royal history, rustic charm, and delicious Italian food. It's these kinds of experiences that make traveling so enriching and fulfilling. The 17th and 18th of July are also the dates for Youth at the Top 2025, a series of events across the Alps and Carpathians to raise awareness about nature conservation among young people.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the world with my wonderful wife. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience new cultures, and to share my adventures with all of you. And who knows, maybe one day I'll even open a Malaysian restaurant here in the Aosta Valley, bringing a taste of my homeland to this beautiful corner of Italy.

Until tomorrow, arrivederci!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention, I managed to find a portable charger today! It seems my forgetfulness is becoming a bit of a running joke on this trip, but at least I'm learning from my mistakes. Hopefully, I won't forget anything tomorrow!

Aoife also reminded me of an educational-experiential activity in Aosta for young children called Hunting for the Bear, maybe we can bring our daughter Róisín here someday.

I'm also curious about the ProsciutTiamo Ham Festival in Saint-Marcel and the Celtica Music Festival in Veny Valley, maybe we can check those out if we ever come back to Valle d'Aosta.