Family Adventure in Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

A Fond Farewell

Our family adventure in Gran Paradiso National Park has come to an end, leaving us with hearts full of unforgettable memories and lungs full of crisp mountain air. Today was a day of both exhilarating experiences and quiet reflection, a perfect culmination to our nine-day journey. As we prepared to bid adieu to this stunning Italian landscape, we made sure to soak in every last bit of its beauty.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Rifugio Grauson, nestled at 2510 meters. The morning air was invigorating, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The views from the rifugio were simply breathtaking, a panoramic vista of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. It was the perfect spot to fuel up for our final day of exploration. Sofia was particularly excited, pointing out every bird and flower she could spot, her enthusiasm infectious. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had enough water and snacks for the day.


Experience breathtaking views and hearty cuisine at Rifugio Grauson, your perfect mountain escape in the heart of Aosta Valley.

After breakfast, we took some time to simply sit and absorb the scenery. There’s something profoundly calming about being surrounded by such majestic natural beauty. I closed my eyes, listening to the wind rustling through the trees and the distant sound of cowbells. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones where you simply allow yourself to be present, to breathe in the beauty around you, and to let the mountains speak to your soul.

Our main goal for the day was to get a good view of Gran Paradiso itself, standing tall at 4061 meters. While we didn't attempt to climb it—that's a challenge for another trip, perhaps—we wanted to pay homage to the park's namesake. We drove to a vantage point that offered a clear, unobstructed view of the peak. The sight was truly awe-inspiring. The mountain, with its snow-covered summit piercing the sky, seemed to radiate a sense of timelessness and grandeur. I tried to capture its essence with my camera, hoping to preserve the memory of this majestic view forever.


Explore the breathtaking Gran Paradiso, Italy's first national park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await every nature lover and adventure enthusiast.

As we admired Gran Paradiso, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought us here. From the initial planning stages in our cozy Bonn home to the exhilarating hikes and unexpected discoveries along the way, every moment had been a gift. I thought about how lucky we were to share this experience as a family, creating memories that would bind us together for years to come. I am so glad we didn't forget the camera, as I know we will want to relive this scenery.

For lunch, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at La Cave de Cogne Osteria & Bottiglieria. This charming spot, located in the heart of Cogne, is known for its traditional Aosta Valley dishes and extensive wine selection. The restaurant itself has a welcoming ambiance, with a stone and wood interior that exudes rustic charm. We sat in their lovely garden, enjoying the views of the church. The cave is known for being the heart of the food and wine tradition in Cogne.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine paired with exquisite wines at La Cave de Cogne Osteria & Bottiglieria in picturesque Aosta Valley.

We started with a platter of local cold cuts and cheeses, accompanied by a crisp, refreshing white wine. For the main course, I opted for the *polenta concia*, a hearty dish of creamy polenta topped with melted Fontina cheese. Hans chose the *seuppa valpellinentze*, a traditional bread and cabbage soup, while Sofia happily devoured a plate of homemade pasta. The food was delicious, a true taste of the region's culinary heritage. We even tried the Crème de Cogne, which was delicious !

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We stopped by Vertical No Limits Aosta , a sporting goods store known for its high-quality equipment and knowledgeable staff. Although we weren't planning on any major purchases, I wanted to pick up a small souvenir to remember our trip. I ended up buying a beautiful hiking map of the park, a perfect memento of our adventures. It was great that the store was staffed with experts, who were happy to give advice. It was interesting to learn that the store is actually a hub for the local adventure community, and they often host events and workshops for outdoor lovers.


Explore the Aosta Valley with top-notch gear from Vertical No Limits, your go-to sporting goods store in the heart of adventure.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way back to our accommodation, feeling a sense of contentment and gratitude. Our final dinner was at Albergo Gran Paradiso, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional cuisine and warm hospitality. We savored every bite of our meal, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. It was the perfect way to end our Gran Paradiso adventure.


Experience breathtaking mountain views and authentic local cuisine at Albergo Gran Paradiso in Valsavarenche's stunning Aosta Valley.

Looking back, this trip was more than just a vacation; it was an immersion into nature, a celebration of family, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. We hiked through breathtaking landscapes, spotted diverse wildlife, and savored delicious local cuisine. We laughed, we explored, and we created memories that will last a lifetime.

Gran Paradiso National Park, with its stunning beauty and tranquil atmosphere, has captured a special place in my heart. It’s a destination that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply someone in search of peace and quiet, this park has something to offer everyone.

As we prepare to leave this natural paradise, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness. But I also know that we're taking with us something far more valuable than souvenirs: the memories of a truly unforgettable family adventure. Until next time, Gran Paradiso!

Tomorrow, we start our journey back home to Bonn, filled with stories to tell and photographs to share. It's always bittersweet to leave a place that has touched your heart, but I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to conquer the summit of Gran Paradiso itself!