Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

Gran Paradiso, Here We Are!

After a long drive from Heidelberg, we finally arrived at Gran Paradiso National Park, ready to immerse ourselves in the Italian Alps. The anticipation had been building for months, and the reality was even more breathtaking than we had imagined. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city, and the scenery was simply stunning. I'm so excited to share our first day's adventures with you all!

Our first stop was the charming village of Cogne, where we fueled up for the day at Hotel Restaurant Paradisia. A hearty breakfast of local cheeses, fresh bread, and strong Italian coffee was the perfect start to our adventure. Sofia was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the sights and sounds of this picturesque alpine village.


Discover alpine charm at Hotel Restaurant Paradisia in Aosta Valley – where comfort meets exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning mountain scenery.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore the Cascate di Lillaz. The short drive to Lillaz was scenic in itself, winding through lush green valleys with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. Parking was easy enough, and soon we were strolling through the village, following signs towards the waterfalls.


Discover the enchanting Cascate di Lillaz in Aosta Valley, where majestic waterfalls and scenic hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The path to Cascate di Lillaz was an easy walk, perfect for Sofia. The sound of rushing water grew louder as we approached, and then, through the trees, we caught our first glimpse of the falls. They were magnificent! The Urtier stream cascades down a series of rocky cliffs, creating three distinct tiers of waterfalls. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding rocks were covered in lush green moss.

We spent a happy hour or two exploring the falls from various vantage points. Sofia was fascinated, scrambling over rocks and squealing with delight as she felt the spray on her face. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the beauty of the falls from every angle. I simply sat and soaked it all in, feeling grateful for this precious time with my family in such a stunning natural setting.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After the Cascate di Lillaz, we decided to explore the Sentiero Natura Cogne. This nature trail promised an easy loop through the forest, with opportunities to learn about the local flora and fauna. We drove back towards Cogne and found the trailhead without any trouble.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Sentiero Natura Cogne, a natural wonder in Aosta Valley with stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The Sentiero Natura Cogne turned out to be a delightful experience. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, with informative signs along the way. Sofia loved spotting the different types of trees and flowers, and we all enjoyed learning about the local wildlife. The air was filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers, and the views of the surrounding mountains were simply breathtaking.

We took our time, stopping to admire the scenery and snap photos. Sofia even managed to spot a couple of chamois grazing on a distant hillside! It was moments like these that made the trip so special, connecting with nature and creating lasting memories with my family.

As lunchtime approached, we made our way to Bar Ristorante Valnontey in Valnontey. This charming restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the menu was full of delicious local specialties. We opted for a selection of traditional dishes, including hearty polenta, flavorful cheeses, and crusty bread. Sofia devoured her pasta with gusto, while Maximilian and I savored the rich flavors of the local cuisine.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Bar Ristorante Valnontey in Aosta Valley.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Valnontey, admiring the traditional stone houses and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect way to unwind after a morning of hiking and waterfall chasing.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a quick stop at Alpine World Shop and Guides in Cogne. I wanted to pick up a detailed map of the park and perhaps a small souvenir to remember our trip. The shop was well-stocked with everything from hiking gear to local crafts, and the staff were friendly and helpful.


Explore the Aosta Valley at Alpine World Shop and Guides: Your premier destination for sporting goods and guided alpine adventures.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Lou Ressignon in Cogne. This cozy restaurant is known for its traditional Valdostan cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by hearty portions of polenta and game stew. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Lou Ressignon in Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Aosta Valley.

As we sat down to dinner, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Our first day in Gran Paradiso National Park had been everything we had hoped for and more. We had explored stunning waterfalls, hiked through fragrant forests, and indulged in delicious local cuisine. More importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. I am missing sunscreen though; I should have remembered to pack it!

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Giardino Botanico Alpino Paradisia and the Fondation Grand Paradis. I'm particularly excited about the botanical garden, as I've heard it's home to a wide variety of alpine plants and flowers. And perhaps we will have time for a drink at Vinosteria Antirouille!

As I write this, nestled in our tent, the sounds of the forest lulling us to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible adventure. Gran Paradiso National Park is truly a special place, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Until then, arrivederci!