Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

A Day of Discovery in Gran Paradiso

Today was a day filled with the kind of simple joys that make traveling with family so special. We immersed ourselves in the natural beauty and local culture of Gran Paradiso, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish for years to come. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing our adventures with you all, hoping to inspire your own family travels.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Maison du Gout Cafè in Cogne. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of local flavors drew us in. I opted for a cappuccino, while Maximilian chose a strong espresso to kickstart his day. Sofia, of course, was thrilled with her hot chocolate. We also ordered some local pastries, which were the perfect blend of sweet and flaky. The café had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed watching the town come to life as we ate.


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

After breakfast, we headed to the Giardino botanico alpino Paradisia. The garden, nestled at 1,700 meters, is a stunning showcase of alpine biodiversity. As we strolled through the various sections, Sofia was absolutely captivated by the colorful array of flowers and plants. Maximilian, with his keen interest in photography, found endless opportunities to capture the beauty around us. I appreciated the garden's efforts to recreate natural alpine environments, from wetlands to moraines, providing a comprehensive look at the region's flora.


Explore the stunning Giardino botanico alpino Paradisia, a botanical garden in Aosta Valley showcasing over 1,200 alpine plant species amidst breathtaking mountain views.

The garden is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, and it’s clear that it’s a labor of love. We joined one of the guided tours, which was incredibly informative, learning about the unique adaptations of alpine plants and the ongoing research efforts to protect them. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the butterfly garden, where she chased after the fluttering insects with glee. The views of the Gran Paradiso massif towering in the background were simply breathtaking.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Next on our itinerary was the Fondation Grand Paradis. This organization is dedicated to promoting sustainable development and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Gran Paradiso area. We explored the visitor center, which offered fascinating exhibits on the park's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Sofia enjoyed the interactive displays, especially the ones focused on local wildlife. We learned about the ibex, the symbol of the park, and the efforts to protect its habitat.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Fondation Grand Paradis in the heart of Aosta Valley, Italy.

It was interesting to learn that the Gran Paradiso Film Festival, an international festival dedicated to nature films, is organized by the Fondation Grand Paradis. The festival aims to deepen the knowledge of the natural heritage and promote respect for the environment. We found out that the festival takes place in Cogne and other locations in the Gran Paradiso valleys in August, with all events being free.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago, enticed by its reputation for extraordinary food quality and stunning views of Lake Bracciano. Although it wasn't actually located on Lake Bracciano, the Chalet del Lago in Ceresole Reale offered a similar charming experience. The restaurant is known for its Piedmontese and mountain dishes, with a focus on local and organic products. Maximilian and I shared a hearty dish of polenta with wild mushrooms, while Sofia enjoyed a simple pasta with tomato sauce. The staff was attentive and welcoming, making our dining experience truly special.


Savor authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago in Ceresole Reale.

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to take a leisurely walk around the nearby area, soaking in the alpine scenery. We found a peaceful spot by a small stream, where Sofia spent time building a little dam with pebbles and twigs. It was a perfect moment of connection with nature and each other.

As evening approached, we made our way to Rifugio Tetras Lyre - Campo Base Gran Paradiso for dinner. Located a short walk from Pont Valsavarenche, this mountain refuge offered a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The refuge is nestled in a green glade amidst a larch forest, creating a serene setting. We enjoyed typical Valle d'Aosta specialties as well as some international dishes. I had a delicious homemade pasta dish, which was highly recommended. Maximilian opted for a hearty meat stew, and Sofia enjoyed a simple but tasty cheese and bread.


Experience the charm of Rifugio Tetras Lyre: your cozy mountain retreat nestled in Gran Paradiso National Park with exquisite dining options.

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Vinosteria Antirouille for a nightcap. This wine bar in Aymavilles is known for its local wines and relaxed atmosphere. We sampled a few regional wines, enjoying the cozy ambiance and friendly service. The bar is known for its cured ham and cheese boards, sold by length. Although we didn't order a board that long, we enjoyed a smaller one with our wine. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our day of alpine adventures.


Discover the authentic taste of Aosta Valley at Vinosteria Antirouille, a charming eatery and wine bar offering exquisite local cuisine and wines.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Prato di Sant’Orso and Sentiero Miniere di Cogne. We’ll start the day with breakfast at Ristorante Sant'Orso, followed by a packed lunch at La Barme. For dinner, we’re planning to try Rifugio Massimo Mila. We also hope to visit Les Dentellières de Cogne, a local shop.

As I sit here writing, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and with you. Each day in Gran Paradiso brings new discoveries and deeper connections, reminding us of the beauty and importance of the natural world. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Until next time, happy travels!