Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

Day 11: Chasing Waterfalls and Ancient Echoes in Aosta

Today was a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical exploration, and culinary indulgence here in the Aosta Valley. It's amazing how much this region has to offer, blending stunning landscapes with rich cultural heritage. The weather was kind to us, with moderate temperatures hovering around 17°C, though the chance of rain was always a slight concern. Still, we were determined to make the most of our day!

Our first stop was the magnificent Rutor Falls. The drive there was scenic, winding through charming alpine villages and offering glimpses of the towering mountains. Once we arrived near La Thuile, we followed the signs to 'La Joux,' a quiet road leading to a small parking area. From there, the adventure truly began with a hike to the falls.


Explore Rutor Falls, a stunning cascade in Aosta Valley, perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking breathtaking views and serene landscapes.
The trail was well-marked, and even Sofia, our energetic seven-year-old, managed it with enthusiasm. The path was moderately steep, but the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys kept us motivated. As we got closer, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the spectacle ahead. I was so glad I remembered to pack our hiking boots; they were essential for navigating the rocky terrain. Maximilian, of course, was in his element, pointing out various geological formations and plant species along the way. I tried to remember some of it, knowing my dad would quiz me later. He loves to hear about the flora and fauna of the places we visit.

Finally, we reached the first of the Rutor Falls, and it was breathtaking. The water cascaded down with immense power, creating a misty spray that cooled us instantly. The falls originate from the Rutor Glacier, and the water has a unique blue color due to the mineral content. We continued hiking, reaching the second and third waterfalls, each more impressive than the last. Sofia was thrilled, exclaiming that it was like something out of a fairy tale! I must admit, I felt a sense of awe myself. We took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty and power of nature, though no picture could truly do it justice.

Nature's beauty has a profound way of reminding us of the simple joys in life, offering moments of peace and wonder amidst the chaos.

After spending a good part of the morning at Rutor Falls, we drove back towards Aosta, our next destination being the Chiostro romanico di Sant-Orso (XII s.), a Romanesque cloister with a rich history. The drive itself was lovely, with picturesque views of the Aosta Valley. I always appreciate these moments of transit, as it gives us a chance to reflect on what we've seen and anticipate what's to come.


Explore the stunning medieval architecture and serene ambiance of Chiostro Romanico di Sant-Orso in Aosta's historic heart.
The Chiostro romanico di Sant-Orso is a stunning example of 12th-century Romanesque art. As we stepped through its ancient arches, we were greeted by a serene atmosphere. The cloister features beautifully carved columns, each telling a unique story through its intricate designs. Sofia was fascinated by the carvings, and we spent time deciphering the various biblical scenes and figures. The play of light and shadow in the cloister was particularly captivating, creating a magical ambiance. It was a peaceful retreat, a place to reflect on the history and artistry of the Aosta Valley.

I found myself particularly drawn to the history of the place. The cloister was part of a collegiate church founded to support the order of Augustinian monks. It's incredible to think about the generations of monks who lived and prayed in this very spot. The intricate details of the columns, each telling a story from the Bible, were a testament to the skill and dedication of the artists. I could almost hear the echoes of ancient chants and the rustling of robes as we walked through the tranquil gardens.

Before heading to dinner, I took a detour to BeMass, a local shop known for its Valdostan artisanal creations. I wanted to find a small souvenir that captured the essence of our trip. The shop was filled with beautiful embroidered textiles, showcasing traditional designs and patterns. I ended up buying a small cushion with a deer design for our living room back in Heidelberg. It will be a lovely reminder of our time in Gran Paradiso.


Discover the charm of Aosta at BeMass, a unique novelty store offering a delightful range of products including home goods, children's clothing, and festive decorations.
For breakfast, we started our day at La Brasserie du Bon Bec in Cogne. The reviews were raving about it, and it was close to Sant'Orso. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for a family meal. I ordered the Polenta alla Valdostana, a regional specialty with melted Fontina cheese and butter. It was rich, comforting, and utterly delicious. Maximilian opted for the La Frecachà, a hearty veal dish with potatoes and onions. Sofia, of course, went for the simple pasta with tomato sauce, which she devoured with gusto.


Experience authentic Aosta Valley cuisine at La Brasserie du Bon Bec in scenic Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Lunch was at Ristorante La Genzianella, and it was an experience. The restaurant had a cozy, alpine feel, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. We decided to try their polenta, which came highly recommended. It was creamy, flavorful, and perfectly complemented the hearty meat dishes we ordered. I overheard some other diners praising the ravioli, so I made a mental note to try it next time we're in the area.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Genzianella in Ceresole Reale, where tradition meets breathtaking alpine views.
Dinner was at Old Grizzly in Aymavilles. The restaurant had a rustic charm, and the menu featured traditional Valdostan cuisine. I ordered the tagliata di cervo (sliced deer), which was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. Maximilian went for the fonduta, a classic cheese fondue that was both comforting and indulgent. Sofia enjoyed her pasta, and we all shared a delicious dessert of Tegole Valdostane, a local almond biscuit.


Experience authentic Italian alpine cuisine at Old Grizzly in Aosta Valley - where every dish tells a story.
The Old Grizzly had a very cozy atmosphere. The service was excellent, and the staff was friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. These are the moments that we will cherish for years to come.

As we head into our final day tomorrow, we plan to visit the Castello Reale di Sarre and Châtelard Castle. We'll grab breakfast at La Maison du Gout Cafè, have lunch at Hotel Belvedere, and celebrate our last night with dinner at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago. And perhaps, if time allows, we'll sneak in a quick drink at Cafè de l'Arc. It's hard to believe our trip is coming to an end. It feels like just yesterday we were driving through the Alps, excited about the adventures that lay ahead. Time really does fly when you're having fun!

Tomorrow, we will start our day with breakfast at La Maison du Gout Cafè, followed by visits to the Castello Reale di Sarre and Châtelard Castle. For lunch, we'll dine at Hotel Belvedere, and in the evening, we'll have our farewell dinner at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago. If time allows, we might even squeeze in a drink at Cafè de l'Arc.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for our final day in this beautiful region. Goodnight from Gran Paradiso!