Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

Echoes of Ancient Rome in Aosta

Today was a delightful blend of history, culture, and culinary experiences as we ventured into Aosta, a city steeped in Roman history. It's amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you're surrounded by so much to see and do. The kids were particularly excited, and even Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was eager to explore. I was looking forward to a day filled with exploration and delicious food.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Maison du Gout Cafè. This charming café is known for its traditional Aosta Valley products, and we enjoyed a selection of local breads, pastries, and cheeses. Sofia especially loved the torcetti biscuits, while Maximilian savored the mécoulon sweet bread. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing. I must admit, starting the day with such delightful treats made me feel right at home, reminiscent of the cozy bakeries back in Savonlinna.


Discover authentic Aosta Valley cuisine at La Maison du Gout Cafè in Lillaz - where every dish tells a story.

Our first stop was the magnificent Arco di Augusto. This ancient Roman triumphal arch, erected in 25 BC, stands as a testament to the Roman victory over the Salassi tribe. It's incredible to think that this structure has stood for over two millennia, witnessing countless historical events. We spent some time admiring the intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the arch. Sofia was fascinated by the stories of Roman emperors and battles that Maximilian shared with her, bringing the history to life right before our eyes. The arch is located at the end of the decumanus maximus, marking the entrance to the ancient city. The surrounding Piazza Arco D'Augusto was bustling with activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The Aosta Valley region derives its name from Emperor Augustus. The arch has undergone several transformations throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it was called "Saint-Vout" from an image of the Savior that was placed there. In 1716, it was covered with a slate roof to protect it from water infiltration, and it was finally restored between 1912 and 1913.


Visit the Arco di Augusto in Aosta, Italy, and step back in time to explore this monumental Roman triumphal arch surrounded by the beauty of the Alps.

Exploring ancient monuments allows us to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of human civilization.

Next, we visited the Pont d'Aël, a Roman aqueduct located in the nearby comune of Aymavilles. Built in 3 BC, this impressive structure was designed to supply water to the newly founded colony of Augusta Praetoria, now known as Aosta. The aqueduct stretches for 6 kilometers and stands 66 meters above the valley floor. It's a marvel of Roman engineering, showcasing their advanced capabilities in construction and water management. We walked along the public trail that now runs through the water channel, marveling at the breathtaking views of the Aosta Valley. Sofia was particularly intrigued by the control corridor below the waterline, a unique feature of the aqueduct. Maximilian, ever the engineer at heart, was impressed by the sophisticated system used to direct water through the neighboring valley. Pont d'Aël is one of three remaining Roman bridges in the Aosta Valley. It was built by Caius Avilius Caimus.


Explore the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont d'Aël and experience breathtaking views in the heart of Aosta Valley's stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we headed to Bar à Fromage, restaurant de montagne in Cogne. This cozy restaurant is known for its cheese-focused dishes and traditional regional fare. The staff were dressed in traditional Aosta Valley costumes, adding to the charming ambiance. We indulged in a delicious fondue, a creamy cheese dish served with bread for dipping. Sofia enjoyed the favò, a comforting blend of beans, onions, garlic, and olive oil. Maximilian savored the tagliere di salumi e formaggi, a curated board featuring cured meats, cheese, bread, and pickles. The restaurant is set in a converted alpine dairy farm. The dishes are rooted in the mountain traditions of the Aosta Valley.


Discover authentic alpine cuisine at Bar à Fromage in Cogne, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at MPC Maison Publique de la Cervoise, a local bar known for its craft beers. I'm not usually one for beer, but Maximilian insisted we try some of the local brews. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we enjoyed sampling a few different beers while Sofia sipped on a refreshing juice. It was a great way to relax and soak in the local culture. The staff were friendly and the service was great. According to Google users, the bar has a rating of 4.6. The bar has a great location.


Discover Aosta's local flavors at MPC Maison Publique de la Cervoise, a premier beer hall offering an array of craft brews in a cozy atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose La Barme, a restaurant known for its authentic regional cuisine and warm mountain environment. Located in Cogne, this restaurant offers a delightful retreat with comfortable accommodations and a convenient location. The chef has been working at the restaurant for over 12 years, offering dishes rich in traditional flavors, accompanied by the best wines of the Aosta Valley. In the summer, you can dine on the terrace with a great view of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant also pays attention to vegetarian guests or guests with food intolerances. The hotel is popular with families. The rooms have garden or inner courtyard views. The restaurant has exceptional ratings.


Discover La Barme: A Cozy Hotel Offering Gourmet Dining and Easy Access to Skiing Adventures in Stunning Aosta Valley.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures over a nightcap. Aosta had charmed us with its rich history and vibrant culture. I was particularly moved by the resilience of the Roman structures, standing tall after all these years. It reminded me of the Finnish spirit of sisu, the determination to persevere against all odds.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Rutor Falls and the Chiostro romanico di Sant-Orso [sic] (XII s.) [sic], continuing our exploration of the Gran Paradiso National Park [sic]. I am looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure with my family.

There are several events taking place in Aosta Valley during the summer. The Cervino CineMountain is Europe's highest international mountain film festival, held from July 26 to August 2. The Gran Paradiso Film Festival continues in the tradition of an event rooted in the territory. Musicastelle festival offers 7 free concerts of Italian artists. On August 2, the 56th Foire d'Été will take place, a large crafts fair in the historic center of Aosta. On August 10, there is a show by Mago Allione and a Queen tribute concert.