Family Adventure in Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

Finding Serenity in the Aosta Valley

Today was a day of exploration and quiet reflection amidst the stunning landscapes of Gran Paradiso National Park. It's amazing how quickly a change of scenery can shift your perspective, and today was a perfect example of that. Leaving the charming village of Cogne behind, we set out to discover some of the Aosta Valley's best-kept secrets. I was looking forward to enjoying the attractions of today, while Hans was already making plans for climbing Gran Paradiso tomorrow. Sofia, of course, was excited about both!

Our first stop was the Eremo di San Grato, a hermitage perched high above the village of Péroulaz. The drive there was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the valley below. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I couldn't help but think of my hometown of Teruel, Spain, and how the mountains there held a similar sense of peace and history. I was excited to share this experience with Hans and Sofia.


Discover the tranquility of Eremo di San Grato, a breathtaking hermitage in Aosta Valley, perfect for spiritual reflection and scenic views.

The hermitage itself is a simple yet striking chapel dedicated to San Grato, a bishop from the 5th century. According to local lore, San Grato often retreated to this spot for meditation and prayer. The earliest written records of the chapel date back to the 13th century, but it was expanded in 1754. As we approached, I noticed the statue of San Grato facing towards Aosta. The walk from the parking area was short but steep, and Sofia, ever the energetic one, practically skipped ahead. The hermitage is located at 1773 meters above sea level, surrounded by meadows and forests, providing a beautiful view of Aosta and the surrounding mountains.

Inside the chapel, the atmosphere was serene, filled with a sense of history and devotion. Frescoes depicting the life and miracles of San Grato adorned the walls. I lit a candle, offering a silent prayer for my family's health and happiness. Hans, ever the pragmatist, admired the architecture, while Sofia was fascinated by the colorful paintings. We spent some time exploring the grounds, enjoying the panoramic views of the Aosta Valley. The tranquility of the place was palpable, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was easy to see why San Grato chose this spot for contemplation.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest places.

After our visit to the hermitage, we drove towards Cascata Biolet, a waterfall near Lillaz. The drive took us through charming villages and alongside the rushing Dora Baltea river. We parked the car and followed the signs towards the falls. The path was well-maintained, making it an easy walk for Sofia. The anticipation grew with each step as the sound of rushing water grew louder. The hike to Cascata Biolet is a gentle ascent that leads to a rocky viewpoint.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata Biolet, a stunning waterfall in Aosta Valley, surrounded by serene nature and picturesque hiking trails.

And then, there it was – Cascata Biolet, a stunning waterfall cascading down the rocks. The water was crystal clear, and the spray created a refreshing mist in the air. Sofia squealed with delight, running towards the best vantage point to take photos. We spent a good hour there, simply enjoying the beauty of nature. The sun peeked through the trees, casting rainbows in the mist. It was a perfect moment, one that I knew we would all cherish.

For lunch, we stopped at LO SCIATORE Ristorante Bar. I had heard good things about it, and we were all starving after our morning adventures. The restaurant had a cozy, mountain-lodge atmosphere. Hans ordered a hearty pasta dish, while Sofia opted for a simple pizza. I chose a local specialty, a dish with fontina cheese and polenta, eager to taste the flavors of the Aosta Valley. The food was delicious and satisfying, and the service was friendly and efficient.


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

In the late afternoon, we headed back to Cogne, but not before stopping for dinner at Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio. This restaurant is known for its traditional Aosta Valley cuisine and its use of local products. The trattoria is in an old stable and barn that has been renovated. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. We started with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, including the Arnad lard and Bosses ham. For my main course, I chose the zuppa Valpellinentze, a traditional soup from the region. Hans had a grilled meat dish, while Sofia enjoyed a simple pasta with tomato sauce. Everything was delicious, and we savored every bite.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio in Cogne - where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.

After dinner, as the day drew to a close, we decided to experience MPC Maison Publique de la Cervoise. We decided to stop in for a nightcap. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring. The atmosphere was lively, and the selection of beers was impressive. I tried a local craft beer, while Hans opted for a classic German pilsner. Sofia enjoyed a sparkling apple juice. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover Aosta's local flavors at MPC Maison Publique de la Cervoise, a premier beer hall offering an array of craft brews in a cozy atmosphere.

Tomorrow is our last day in Gran Paradiso National Park, and Hans is determined to climb Gran Paradiso 4061m. I'm a bit nervous, but I know he's well-prepared and capable. Sofia and I will probably explore some of the easier trails around Cogne, maybe visit the Alpinart gallery or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. We might also pick up some souvenirs at Vertical No Limits Aosta. Whatever we do, I know it will be another memorable day in this beautiful corner of Italy.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to travel with my family and experience new cultures and landscapes. It's moments like these that make life so rich and rewarding. And as I look forward to tomorrow, I know that whatever adventures await us, we'll face them together, as a family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings as we prepare to bid farewell to this stunning national park. I'm already looking forward to sharing more stories and photos from our Italian adventure. Until then, arrivederci!