Family Adventure in Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

Echoes of the Past

Today’s adventure took us deep into the heart of Valle d’Aosta, where history whispers from ancient stones and echoes through the corridors of time. It was a day of exploring medieval castles and savoring local flavors, a perfect blend of culture and gastronomy that left us spellbound. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Maison du Gout Cafè in Introd. I ordered a cappuccino and a pastry, while Hans opted for a more traditional German-style breakfast with bread and cheese. Sofia, of course, chose a chocolate croissant, her eyes sparkling with morning excitement. Fueled up and ready, we set off to explore the historical gems of the region.

Maison Bruil di Introd: A Glimpse into Rural Life

Our first stop was Maison Bruil di Introd. This beautifully preserved example of rural architecture offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited this region. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I was particularly excited to see the intricate details of the building's construction and the artifacts it housed. The structure itself is a rare example of a construction made entirely of wood, a typical medieval architecture style in Aosta Valley.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Aosta Valley at Maison Bruil, an enchanting museum showcasing local traditions and history.
We wandered through the various rooms, each telling a story of a bygone era. Sofia was especially intrigued by the old kitchen, imagining the meals that would have been prepared there centuries ago. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the ingenious design of the building, which allowed for efficient storage of wheat and seeds. I was captivated by the wrought iron locks on the doors, one of which beautifully represented a castle.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

After soaking in the atmosphere of Maison Bruil, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of Introd. The fresh mountain air and the picturesque scenery made it a truly delightful experience. We even considered visiting the Introd Animal Park, but Sofia was too eager to see a real castle.

Castello di Fénis: A Fairytale Fortress

Next on our itinerary was the Castello di Fénis. As we approached the castle, its imposing silhouette against the clear blue sky was truly breathtaking. Unlike other castles in the Aosta Valley built for military defense, Castello di Fénis was constructed on a slight hillock, emphasizing its role as a prestigious seat for the Challant family.


Explore the enchanting Castello di Fénis in Aosta Valley, a medieval masterpiece showcasing Italy's rich history and stunning architecture.
The castle's history dates back to the 13th century when it belonged to the Challant family, one of the most influential families in the region. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions and modifications, resulting in its unique pentagonal layout with circular turrets.

We explored the castle's interior, marveling at the well-preserved frescoes that adorned the walls. The most famous of these depicts St. George slaying the dragon, a vivid representation of medieval art and culture. Sofia was absolutely mesmerized by the paintings, her imagination running wild with tales of knights and dragons. The frescoes on the wooden balconies, portraying sages and prophets, were also stunning.

As we climbed to the top of the 13th-century tower, the panoramic view of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks was simply magnificent. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the incredible beauty that surrounds us. I snapped several photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, knowing that no image could truly do it justice.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago

After our historical explorations, it was time for a well-deserved lunch. We drove to Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago , a charming restaurant nestled by a serene lake. The location was perfect, and the views were stunning. The weather was pleasant, with the mild May air adding to the charm of the surroundings.


Savor authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago in Ceresole Reale.
The restaurant itself exuded a warm and inviting atmosphere. We were promptly seated at a table with a view of the lake, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, a delicious introduction to the flavors of the region. For the main course, I opted for the homemade pasta with truffle sauce, while Hans chose the grilled steak with roasted vegetables. Sofia, predictably, went for the Margherita pizza.

Every dish was prepared with fresh, local ingredients and bursting with flavor. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the truffle sauce was rich and decadent. Hans raved about his steak, declaring it one of the best he had ever tasted. And Sofia devoured her pizza with gusto, a testament to its simple yet satisfying flavors.

For dessert, we shared a traditional Italian tiramisu, a sweet and creamy delight that was the perfect ending to our meal. As we savored each bite, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such culinary delights in such a beautiful setting.

Evening Reflections and a Toast to Adventure

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Old Distillery in Introd , a cozy bar known for its local spirits. While Hans sampled a local craft beer, I decided to try a grappa, a traditional Italian brandy made from the leftover grape skins and seeds after winemaking. It was a strong and flavorful drink, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Old Distillery, a must-visit pub in Aosta offering local brews and delicious snacks in a cozy setting.
Sofia, of course, couldn't partake in the alcoholic beverages, but she was more than happy with her glass of apple juice and a bag of chips. As we sat there, reflecting on our day, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. We had explored ancient castles, savored local flavors, and created lasting memories as a family.

Tonight, we dined at Osteria Dei Viaggiatori , a charming restaurant known for its traditional Aosta Valley cuisine. The menu featured hearty dishes made with local ingredients, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I opted for the carbonada, a rich beef stew cooked in red wine, while Hans chose the polenta with sausage and cheese. Sofia, as always, went for the pasta with tomato sauce.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Dei Viaggiatori in Frera Superiore - where every meal is a celebration of local tradition.
The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The carbonada was tender and flavorful, and the polenta was creamy and satisfying. Sofia enjoyed her pasta, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. For dessert, we shared a slice of homemade apple pie, a sweet and comforting treat that was the perfect ending to our meal.

As we walked back to our accommodation, the stars twinkled above us, casting a magical glow on the surrounding mountains. I thought about tomorrow’s itinerary, which includes a visit to the Fondation Grand Paradis and the Prato di Sant’Orso. I am particularly excited about visiting the park's visitor center to learn more about the local wildlife and the region's natural history. We are planning to have breakfast at Rifugio Massimo Mila and lunch at La Barme. I’m also looking forward to visiting La Bottega Incantata , a shop that I hope will have some unique souvenirs.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Gran Paradiso National Park had exceeded all my expectations, and I knew that the days to come would be filled with even more unforgettable experiences. Traveling with Hans and Sofia makes every adventure more special, and I cherish these moments together. I am also glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots and camera, as they have been essential for capturing the beauty of this region. I did forget my portable phone charger, though, so I need to remember to charge my phone every night so I can keep taking photos.

Tomorrow promises new adventures, and I can’t wait to share them with you all. Until then, ciao from Gran Paradiso!