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

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today, Hans-Peter and I ventured into the heart of Valle d'Aosta's wilderness, seeking the serene embrace of nature. Our journey led us to cascading waterfalls and sprawling natural parks, each offering a unique perspective on the region's unspoiled beauty. It was a day of exploration, where the whispers of the wind and the rush of water painted a vivid picture of the Italian Alps.

We began our day with a delightful breakfast at Cibo Ristorante Vegano in Cogne. While I am not strictly vegan, I always appreciate a restaurant that focuses on fresh, plant-based ingredients. The breakfast was a refreshing start to our day, fueling us for the adventures that lay ahead. I opted for a hearty bowl of muesli with fresh berries and nuts, while Hans-Peter enjoyed a vegan croissant with a strong espresso. It was the perfect way to prepare for a day of hiking and exploration.

Cascate di Lillaz: A Symphony of Water

Our first destination was the Cascate di Lillaz, a series of three stunning waterfalls cascading down the mountainside near the charming village of Lillaz. As we approached, the air grew cooler, and the sound of rushing water filled our ears. The path to the falls was an easy walk, suitable even for someone like me, who prefers a leisurely pace. The surrounding forest was lush and green, with wildflowers dotting the landscape. I couldn't resist stopping to take several photographs, trying to capture the vibrant colors and textures of the natural world.


Explore the breathtaking Cascate di Lillaz in Aosta Valley, a stunning natural wonder perfect for hiking and enjoying serene alpine beauty.
When we reached the first waterfall, I was immediately captivated. The water plunged down with tremendous force, creating a fine mist that kissed our faces. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a rainbow effect, adding to the magical atmosphere. We spent a good amount of time simply watching the water, mesmerized by its power and grace. Hans-Peter, ever the artist, was busy sketching in his notebook, trying to capture the essence of the scene.

We continued to climb, following the path to the upper falls. Each cascade was more impressive than the last, with the final waterfall being the tallest and most dramatic. The views from the top were breathtaking, with the entire valley stretching out before us. I felt a sense of awe and gratitude for the beauty of the natural world, a feeling that is so easily lost in the hustle and bustle of Berlin.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After thoroughly exploring the falls, we decided to take a different route back to Lillaz, crossing a small bridge and walking along the other side of the river. This path offered new perspectives on the waterfalls and allowed us to appreciate the surrounding landscape even more. As we walked, we noticed several locals sunbathing on the rocks near the base of the falls, enjoying the cool mist and the sound of the water. It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most rewarding.

Parco Naturale del Monte Avic: A Hiker's Paradise

Our next stop was the Parco Naturale del Monte Avic, the first regional natural park in Valle d'Aosta. This vast protected area encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows, and is home to a variety of wildlife. We decided to explore the park on foot, choosing a relatively easy trail that would allow us to soak in the scenery without overexerting ourselves.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Parco Naturale del Monte Avic in Aosta Valley, Italy, a perfect escape for nature lovers.
As we entered the park, we were immediately struck by the tranquility of the surroundings. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. The trail wound its way through the forest, leading us past ancient trees and babbling brooks. I felt a sense of peace and solitude, a welcome escape from the noise and stress of city life. It reminded me of my childhood in Latvia, exploring the forests around Cēsis.

We continued our hike, eventually emerging from the forest into a wide-open meadow. The views were spectacular, with the snow-capped peaks of the Italian Alps towering in the distance. The meadow was carpeted in wildflowers, creating a riot of color that was almost overwhelming. I took several photographs, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, but no image could truly do it justice. It was a moment that had to be experienced to be fully appreciated.

According to recent announcements, the park is actively involved in environmental conservation and protection efforts. It's heartening to see such dedication to preserving this natural treasure for future generations.

We paused for a picnic lunch, enjoying the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere. I had packed a simple meal of bread, cheese, and fruit, which we savored as we sat on a grassy knoll. As we ate, we watched a group of chamois grazing in the distance, their graceful movements a testament to the wildness of the park. Hans-Peter pointed out several birds that he recognized, sharing his knowledge of the local fauna. It's moments like these that make our travels so special, the opportunity to learn and grow together as we explore new places.

As we hiked, I was reminded of a similar park, Gauja National Park, back in Latvia. It too boasts stunning natural beauty and a commitment to preserving the environment. Perhaps that's why I felt such a strong connection to Monte Avic.

Culinary Delights and Evening Reflections

After our hike, we were both feeling quite tired, but we were also eager to experience more of the local culture. We decided to treat ourselves to a delicious dinner at Hostaria del Calvino Trattoria Ristorante Aosta. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional Aosta Valley cuisine, and we were excited to try some of the regional specialties.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria del Calvino in Aosta – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
We started with a platter of local cheeses and cured meats, which were incredibly flavorful. For our main courses, I ordered the carbonada, a hearty beef stew cooked in red wine, while Hans-Peter opted for the polenta concia, a creamy polenta dish with melted cheese. Both dishes were rich and satisfying, the perfect reward for a day of hiking and exploring. We paired our meal with a bottle of local red wine, which complemented the food perfectly.

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll through the streets of Aosta, soaking in the evening atmosphere. The town was bustling with activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the warm summer evening. We stopped at Gekoo, a local bar, for a nightcap before heading back to our accommodation. As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Valle d'Aosta.


Discover the vibrant bar scene at Gekoo in Aosta, where locals and tourists meet for drinks, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the region's history with visits to the Castello Reale di Sarre and the Criptoportico Forense. I am particularly excited to explore the Criptoportico Forense, as I have always been fascinated by ancient Roman architecture. I am also looking forward to visiting Antica Latteria Erbavoglio, as I am always on the lookout for unique and locally made products. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration in this beautiful corner of Italy. I must remember to buy some sunscreen tomorrow as I forgot to pack it!