Exploring the Historical Charms and Natural Beauty of Valle d'Aosta

Farewell, Valle d'Aosta!

As our incredible journey through Valle d'Aosta draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the stunning beauty and rich history that has enveloped us these past ten days. Today was all about savoring those final moments, soaking in the alpine air, and celebrating the memories we've created. It's bittersweet, as always, but I know we'll carry a piece of this enchanting region in our hearts.

Our final day began, as many others have, with a delightful breakfast. We visited Ad Forum, a charming spot in Aosta. While Hans-Peter enjoyed a strong Italian coffee, I savored a pastry, a perfect start before our adventurous day. Ad Forum, with its lovely garden, provided a tranquil beginning, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ad Forum in Aosta - where tradition meets modern flair in a cozy setting.

Scaling Mount Emilius

With renewed energy, we set off for what promised to be a challenging yet rewarding experience: a hike up Mount Emilius. The mountain loomed majestically in the distance, its peak daring us to conquer it. I knew this would be a demanding trek, but the allure of panoramic views from the summit was too tempting to resist.


Discover the stunning beauty and thrilling adventures that await at Mount Emilius in the heart of the Aosta Valley, Italy.

The trail was steep and rocky, and I must admit there were moments when my legs questioned my sanity. Patches of snow lingered even in June, a reminder of the mountain's formidable nature. Fortunately, we were well-prepared with our hiking boots and layers of clothing. I was glad I remembered my hiking stick, it helped with maintaining balance across the more rugged parts of the trail.

As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The Aosta Valley stretched out beneath us, a tapestry of green meadows, quaint villages, and snow-capped peaks. It was a vista that made every drop of sweat worthwhile.

The higher you climb on the mountain, the smaller the problems appear.

Reaching the summit was an exhilarating triumph. The 360-degree panorama was simply awe-inspiring. We could see Mont Blanc in the northwest, the Matterhorn to the northeast and Gran Paradiso to the south. The sense of accomplishment, coupled with the sheer beauty of the surroundings, created a moment I'll treasure forever.

The descent was, as always, a little easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain and pausing frequently to absorb the views. Back in the car, we felt tired but deeply satisfied.

A Relaxing Afternoon at Parco di Brusson

After our invigorating hike, we decided to unwind with a leisurely visit to Parco di Brusson. This charming park offered a welcome contrast to the ruggedness of Mount Emilius. It was the perfect place to stretch our tired muscles and enjoy some tranquility.


Discover the natural beauty of Parco di Brusson, a serene park in Aosta Valley perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and unforgettable memories.

The park was a haven of lush greenery, with winding paths that meandered through flower-filled meadows and alongside a serene lake. We strolled hand-in-hand, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle sounds of nature. We found a bench by the lake and simply sat, watching the ducks glide across the water and the clouds drift lazily overhead.

I noticed a playground and several families enjoying the outdoors. Children's laughter filled the air, adding to the park's joyful ambiance. I was reminded of my childhood in Latvia, where I spent countless hours exploring the forests and meadows near Cēsis. Those memories are precious to me, and I felt a pang of nostalgia as I watched the children play.

A Culinary Farewell in Aosta

As evening approached, we returned to Aosta for our final culinary experience in Valle d'Aosta. We chose Ianua Ristorante, drawn by its reputation for traditional cuisine and its unique location near the ancient Roman Porta Pretoria.


Discover exquisite Italian dining at Ianua Ristorante in Aosta, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, with stone walls and soft lighting creating a cozy atmosphere. We were seated at a table overlooking the Porta Pretoria, a reminder of the city's rich history.

We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by a bottle of crisp, local white wine. For our main courses, Hans-Peter chose the *filetto di garronese alla piastra*, while I opted for the *crespelle alla valdostana*, a savory pancake filled with ham and cheese. Each dish was a celebration of local ingredients and traditional flavors.

As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our adventures in Valle d'Aosta. From the majestic Gran Paradiso National Park to the charming villages of Courmayeur and Etroubles, we had experienced so much in such a short time. We spoke of the kind people we had met, the delicious food we had savored, and the stunning landscapes we had witnessed. It was a trip that had nourished our souls and created memories that would last a lifetime.

A Final Toast

To conclude our evening, we ventured to 101bar Cocktails & Music - Specialità Gnocco Fritto for a nightcap. This cozy bar was known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere. We settled into a comfortable corner and ordered a couple of their signature drinks. The bartender, a friendly fellow with a passion for mixology, crafted our cocktails with flair.


Discover the lively 101bar in Aosta, where exquisite cocktails meet traditional gnocco fritto in a vibrant atmosphere.

As we sipped our drinks, we listened to the music and watched the locals mingle and laugh. It was the perfect way to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Aosta one last time. We raised our glasses in a toast to Valle d'Aosta, to our incredible journey, and to the many adventures that still lay ahead.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin. While I'm eager to return to my familiar routines and the comforting embrace of my own home, I know that a part of me will remain here, in the heart of the Italian Alps. Valle d'Aosta has captured my imagination and touched my soul, and I'm already dreaming of the day when I can return.

Until then, I'll cherish the memories we've made, the photographs we've taken, and the stories we've gathered. And who knows, perhaps this experience will inspire me to delve deeper into the history of the Aosta Valley for my work at the Deutsches Historisches Museum. There's always more to learn, more to discover, and more to share.

For now, it's *Arrivederci*, Valle d'Aosta. Thank you for the adventure.

P.S. I really need to remember to buy a power adapter before our next trip!