Exploring the Wonders of Gran Paradiso with Family

A Day of Castles and Culinary Wonders

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Aosta Valley's history and culture. From exploring ancient castles to savoring traditional cuisine, every moment was filled with delightful discoveries. It's amazing how much you can learn and experience in just one day, and I’m excited to share all the details.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Sant'Orso - Mountain Lodge & Spa. The hotel offered a delightful spread of sweet and savory specialties, including freshly baked brioches, mountain butter, and local Aosta Valley apple juice. Sofia especially loved the freshly prepared sweet crepes, while Maximilian enjoyed the eggs and omelettes. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I made sure to grab an extra brioche, knowing our little one might need a boost of energy later in the day.


Discover tranquility at Hotel Sant'Orso - where luxury meets nature in the stunning Aosta Valley.

Journey to Castello di Fénis

After breakfast, we set off to Castello di Fénis, one of the most famous castles in the Aosta Valley. Driving through the Aosta Valley is always a treat. The views are simply stunning, with the Alps providing a dramatic backdrop to the charming villages and lush landscapes. The late summer sun cast a golden glow over everything, making the journey even more magical.

Arriving at Castello di Fénis felt like stepping back in time. The castle's architecture is truly impressive, with its towers, crenellated walls, and well-preserved structure. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the major tourist attractions in the region. The castle first appeared in a document in 1242 as property of the Challant family. From 1320 to 1420, under the lordship of Aymon of Challant and his son Boniface I of Challant, the castle was expanded to its actual appearance. Aymon gave the castle its pentagonal layout, the external boundary wall, and many of the towers.


Explore the enchanting Castello di Fénis in Aosta Valley, a medieval masterpiece showcasing Italy's rich history and stunning architecture.

We took a guided tour, which I highly recommend to anyone visiting. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the castle's history, architecture, and the lives of its inhabitants. The castle was originally designed as a defensive structure but evolved into a prestigious noble residence. Inside, we explored the grand halls and admired the intricate frescoes dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Sofia was particularly captivated by the frescoes in the courtyard, depicting Saint George slaying the dragon. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the castle's defensive features and strategic design. As we wandered through the castle, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like during the medieval era. The blend of defensive and residential elements truly made it unique.

Castello di Fénis is an extraordinary gem, representing the essence of medieval architecture and history.

Discovering Rural Traditions at Maison Bruil

Next on our itinerary was Maison Bruil di Introd, an ancient rural house that exemplifies the traditional architecture of the Gran Paradiso area. Driving from Fénis to Introd, we enjoyed more of the Aosta Valley's picturesque scenery. The landscape shifted from the imposing castle grounds to the more pastoral setting of Introd, nestled at the foot of Gran Paradiso National Park.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Aosta Valley at Maison Bruil, an enchanting museum showcasing local traditions and history.

Maison Bruil is one of the best examples of rural architecture in the Gran Paradiso area. It is a rural house where all functions were concentrated in the same space. The current shape of the building resulted from architectural evolution between 1680 and 1856. The building grouped all the spaces needed for the survival of animals and people under a single roof. The tour of Maison Bruil took us through three levels, each containing traditional areas that have been restored to their original functions. The “crotta” (natural glacier), the “crotteun,” the “peillo,” the drying areas, and the garret were all open to the public, offering insights into traditional architecture.

The exhibition on food preservation was particularly interesting. It showcased traditional produce and the evolution of food-preservation techniques over the centuries. We learned about the various methods used by Valdostan farmers at the beginning of the 20th century, such as salting, drying, and isolating food from air. The Atelier du Goût was a highlight, featuring local products and offering tastings that highlighted the cultural context in which wines and food were created. Sofia enjoyed sampling some local cheeses, while Maximilian appreciated the opportunity to learn about the region's culinary heritage. It was fascinating to see how tradition and experience taught mountain dwellers numerous preservation techniques based on different physical and chemical principles.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch at La Brasserie du Bon Bec

For lunch, we headed to La Brasserie du Bon Bec in Cogne. This charming restaurant serves dishes that are perfect for sharing, with a focus on traditional Aosta Valley cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a family meal. I decided to try the Polenta in Aosta Valley style, which was absolutely delicious. Maximilian opted for La Frecachà, a veal dish with potatoes and onions served in a pan. Sofia enjoyed the bread-coated goat cheese with green salad, walnuts, and pears. For dessert, we shared Cogne's cream, a delightful combination of cream, chocolate, almond, caramel, and egg. The restaurant maintains its simplicity and pleasant features by serving everyday dishes and informal cuisine that closely follow tradition. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Aosta Valley cuisine at La Brasserie du Bon Bec in scenic Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Evening Delights at Artis Mixology & Lab

As evening approached, we made our way to Artis Mixology & Lab in Aosta for a pre-dinner drink. This cocktail bar is known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. The mixologists here are true artists, crafting unique and flavorful drinks that are as beautiful as they are delicious. I decided to try one of their signature cocktails, while Maximilian enjoyed a classic aperitivo. Sofia was thrilled with her special non-alcoholic fruity drink. The bar had a great vibe, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. It was a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the evening before dinner. The cocktails were delicious and varied, and the service was passionate and helpful.


Discover Artis Mixology & Lab in Aosta for inventive cocktails and small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.

Dinner at LO SCIATORE Ristorante Bar

For dinner, we chose LO SCIATORE Ristorante Bar, known for its regional dishes and high-quality meat cooked on a grill. Located in the old village of Dolonne, the restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Maximilian was excited about the barbecued meat options, so he ordered the Fiorentina (T-Bone steak). I opted for one of their Valdostan specialties, and Sofia enjoyed a simple pasta dish from the kids' menu. The food was excellent, and the service was attentive. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients and offering a wide variety of wines. It was a perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Lo Sciatore Ristorante Bar amidst breathtaking views in Ceresole Reale.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Eremo di San Grato and Passo dell'Invergneux. We'll also be dining at L'Abro de la Leunna for breakfast, Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio for lunch, and Rifugio Le Fonti Minerali - Pizzeria - Ceresole Reale - Guide Alpine Valle Dell' Orco for dinner. Plus, we plan to stop by Vertical No Limits Aosta for some shopping. It promises to be another exciting day in Gran Paradiso National Park.

Tonight, as we settle into our campsite, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared today. From the majestic Castello di Fénis to the charming Maison Bruil and the delightful culinary adventures, every moment was a treasure. The Aosta Valley has a way of captivating your heart and leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! It’s moments like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family. These memories are the ones we’ll cherish for years to come. Good night from Gran Paradiso!