Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

Reaching New Heights in Gran Paradiso

Today was a day of conquering peaks, both literally and figuratively. The crisp mountain air, the stunning vistas, and the sheer joy of exploring Gran Paradiso with my family made it a day I will treasure forever. It's days like these that remind me why I love travel so much – the chance to challenge myself, to connect with nature, and to create lasting memories with the people I love.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Albergo Gran Paradiso. The hotel offered a spread of homemade goodies, and local products that gave us the perfect start. I enjoyed a cup of strong coffee and a selection of pastries, while Maximilian and Sofia filled up on fresh fruit and yogurt. It's always wonderful to start the day with a hearty meal, especially knowing we had a challenging hike ahead of us.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II. The trail started in Valsavarenche, and the path was well-marked, making it easy to navigate with Sofia in tow. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of alpine meadows and rugged peaks. Sofia was particularly excited, spotting wildflowers and chasing butterflies along the way. The August weather was perfect, with mild temperatures ranging between 9 and 20°C. The sun shone brightly, but there was a cool breeze that kept us comfortable as we hiked.

The hike to Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was challenging but rewarding. The refuge sits at an altitude of 2,732 meters, and the trail is a steady climb. We took our time, stopping frequently to catch our breath and admire the views. Along the way, we met other hikers from all over the world, each with their own story and reason for being there. It's always inspiring to connect with fellow travelers and share our experiences. The trail is popular and well-maintained, and dogs are allowed on the path from Pont-Valsavarenche to the Vittorio Emanuele II hut between July 15th and September 15th.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

Reaching Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was a triumph. The refuge itself is a historic building, dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy. It has been expanded over the years to accommodate the many climbers and hikers who use it as a base for exploring the Gran Paradiso massif. We took some time to explore the refuge, admiring the views of Gran Paradiso, Becca di Moncorvé, and Ciarforon. Sofia was fascinated by the old photographs and mountaineering equipment on display.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Aosta Valley at Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, your perfect mountain cabin retreat.

After our visit to the refuge, we began our descent, and the trail offered a different perspective on the landscape. We decided to take a detour to Petit Poignon. The trail to Petit Poignon was steep but manageable, and the views from the top were well worth the effort. The path meandered through forests and meadows, eventually leading us to the summit. From there, we could see the Roman aqueduct, a testament to the region's rich history. Sofia loved exploring the area, discovering hidden trails and spotting wildlife.


Explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of Aosta Valley at Petit Poignon, a tranquil tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers.

By lunchtime, we were famished, and Lou Bequet in Cogne was the perfect place to refuel. This charming restaurant, located near the entrance to Gran Paradiso National Park, has a cozy, alpine atmosphere. The large windows offered a magnificent view of Cogne and the Sant'Orso meadow. We savored traditional dishes made with local products. I opted for the Gran Paradiso soup, a regional specialty that changes with the seasons. Maximilian enjoyed a hearty polenta dish, while Sofia devoured a plate of homemade pasta. The restaurant has earned the Gran Paradiso Quality Label, ensuring the use of high-quality, local ingredients.


Experience exquisite Italian dining at Lou Bequet in Cogne - where tradition meets stunning Alpine scenery.

After lunch, we decided to take a break at 3ndy Bar Restaurant. This bar has a delightful ambiance and serves exceptional coffee. I enjoyed a cappuccino while Maximilian and Sofia shared a gelato. It was the perfect way to relax and recharge before our final adventure of the day.


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

For dinner, we headed to Rifugio Grauson - 2510 m. This mountain hut is located at 2,510 meters and offers stunning views of the Grauson valley. The hike to the refuge takes about 2.5 hours from Gimillan, following a gradually ascending path. We enjoyed traditional local dishes in the restaurant/bar, savoring the flavors of the Aosta Valley. The refuge is a popular spot for hikers and offers a warm welcome from the staff. It's also the last stop on the 10-day Tour of Gran Paradiso, making it a special place for those completing the trek.


Experience breathtaking views and hearty cuisine at Rifugio Grauson, your perfect mountain escape in the heart of Aosta Valley.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our campsite, filled with memories of a day well-spent. The August evenings in Gran Paradiso are cool, and the nights can get quite chilly. We bundled up in our warm clothing and enjoyed a hot drink before settling into our sleeping bags. The stars shone brightly above us, and the silence of the mountains was broken only by the occasional hoot of an owl.

Tomorrow, we plan to ascend Gran Paradiso 4061m and explore the Gran Paradiso massif. It’s a climb I’m looking forward to, but I know it will be challenging. I need to remember to pack the sunscreen that I forgot, as it can get very hot up there, despite the altitude. I’m also looking forward to visiting La Bottega Incantata, a shop, and trying the local delicacies at La Cave de Cogne Osteria & Bottiglieria, La Locanda dei Sognatori and Ristorante Hostellerie De L'Atelier. For now, I'm content to rest and recharge, knowing that another day of adventure awaits us in this beautiful corner of Italy.

The Gran Paradiso National Park in August offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're hiking to mountain refuges, exploring alpine meadows, or savoring local dishes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to pack appropriately for the weather and be prepared for some challenging hikes. And don't forget to take a moment to simply soak in the beauty of this incredible place. It's an experience you won't soon forget.