Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

A Day of Castles and Goodbyes

Today marked the last day of our family camping trip to Gran Paradiso National Park, and what a journey it has been! From the moment we arrived, driving our trusty car from Heidelberg, Germany, we were captivated by the stunning landscapes and the promise of adventure. We've hiked through verdant trails, marveled at the diverse wildlife, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of camping under the stars. As we prepared to bid farewell to this beautiful corner of Italy, we decided to make the most of our final day by exploring some of the historical gems nearby.

Our first stop was the Castello Reale di Sarre. The drive there was scenic, with the morning sun casting a golden glow over the Aosta Valley. As we approached the castle, its majestic presence was immediately striking. Built in the 18th century on the ruins of an older fortress, it has a rich history, having served as a hunting lodge for the Savoy royal family.


Explore the enchanting Castello Reale di Sarre, a historic castle nestled in the breathtaking Aosta Valley, rich in history and architectural beauty.

Stepping inside, I felt like I was transported back in time. Sofia was particularly excited, imagining princesses and knights roaming the halls. The castle is filled with period furniture, artwork, and historical artifacts that tell the story of the Savoy dynasty. Maximilian was fascinated by the Hall of Trophies and the Gallery, which are decorated with the horns of ibexes and chamois, a testament to the hunting expeditions that once took place here. While I found the sheer number of animal remains a bit overwhelming, I couldn't deny the unique and somewhat eccentric atmosphere it created. The views from the castle overlooking the valley were simply breathtaking, offering a perfect panoramic perspective of the surrounding mountains. We learned that Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy, chose this castle as his favorite hunting residence in the Aosta Valley. It was fascinating to imagine him and his successors using this as a base for their hunting trips in the nearby valleys of Cogne, Rhêmes, and Valsavarenche, areas that now form part of the Gran Paradiso National Park.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveler.

After thoroughly exploring the Castello Reale di Sarre, we decided to have lunch at Hotel Belvedere. Located in Cogne, it was a bit of a drive, but the promise of a delicious meal and a relaxing atmosphere was too tempting to resist. The drive itself was beautiful, winding through the heart of Gran Paradiso National Park. As we arrived, we were greeted by the stunning views of the mountains and the tranquil ambiance of the hotel.


Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Hotel Belvedere in Cogne's enchanting Aosta Valley.

The restaurant at Hotel Belvedere was delightful. We savored traditional Italian dishes while enjoying the picturesque scenery. Sofia enjoyed a simple pasta dish, while Maximilian and I opted for local specialties. Refreshed and rejuvenated, we continued our journey towards our next destination: Châtelard Castle in Aosta Valley.


Explore Châtelard Castle in Aosta Valley – a stunning medieval fortress rich in history, offering panoramic views and a serene escape into Italy's past.

Châtelard Castle, also known as Tour de Châtelard, stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley. Built in the 13th century by Rodolfo Grossi, the Bishop of Aosta, the castle has a rich and varied history. Over the centuries, it passed through several noble families and was even partially destroyed by French revolutionary troops in the late 18th century.

Unfortunately, we could only admire Châtelard Castle from the outside, as it is privately owned and not open to the public. However, even from a distance, its medieval charm was evident. The castle's imposing structure and strategic location spoke volumes about its historical significance. I imagined what life must have been like in the Aosta Valley during the Middle Ages, with the castle serving as a vital defensive stronghold.

Before heading back to our campsite for the final pack-up, we stopped by Cafè de l'Arc in Aosta Valley. Nestled in the historic center of Aosta, this charming café was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our adventures. The café is known for its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. We enjoyed some delicious artisanal ice cream and coffee, savoring the last moments of our Italian getaway. Sofia particularly loved her gelato, declaring it the best she had ever tasted.


Discover the cozy charm of Café de l'Arc, a bar in Aosta offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Aosta Valley.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to the campsite, a little melancholic that our trip was coming to an end. Packing up our camping gear, we reminisced about our favorite moments: the breathtaking hikes, the close encounters with wildlife, and the simple joy of spending quality time together as a family. Even the forgotten portable charger and sunscreen couldn't dampen our spirits; we had made unforgettable memories.

For our final dinner in Gran Paradiso, we chose Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago. Located on the shores of Lago di Ceresole Reale, this charming restaurant offered a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The stone and wood interiors gave it a rustic feel, and the views of the lake were simply stunning. We savored traditional Piedmontese and mountain dishes, made with local and organic ingredients whenever possible. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of our camping adventure.


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

As we drove away from Gran Paradiso National Park, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. This trip had not only allowed us to explore the natural beauty and historical richness of Italy but had also strengthened our bonds as a family. As we embark on our journey back to Heidelberg, I know that the memories of our Gran Paradiso adventure will stay with us for a lifetime.

While this leg of our journey has come to an end, the travel bug in me is already itching for our next adventure. Until then, it's arrivederci from Gran Paradiso!

I am so grateful to have shared this adventure with Maximilian and Sofia. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made every moment even more special. As we drove away, I thought about how lucky I am to have such wonderful travel companions. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories with the people you love.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back home. It's always a bittersweet feeling, leaving a place as beautiful as Gran Paradiso. But I know we will carry the memories with us, and I can't wait to start planning our next family adventure. Perhaps we'll explore more of the Italian Alps, or maybe we'll venture further afield. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes travel so exciting!

And so, our Gran Paradiso adventure comes to an end. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. I hope our experiences have inspired you to explore the natural beauty and historical richness of this amazing corner of Italy. Until next time, happy travels!