Exploring the Wild Beauty of Gran Paradiso

A Day Among Giants

Today, Olivia and I embarked on a journey that tested our limits and rewarded us with unparalleled beauty. The air was crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the promise of panoramic views spurred us onward. It was Day 13 of our adventure in Gran Paradiso, and the mountains were calling.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago. The views of the lake were stunning, and the food was just what we needed to fuel our adventure. After breakfast, we set off towards Passo dell'Invergneux. The drive itself was an experience, winding through the Aosta Valley, each turn revealing more breathtaking alpine scenery. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my life back in Kelowna. Trading my software development desk for these majestic landscapes felt like the ultimate reset.


Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Passo dell'Invergneux in the picturesque Aosta Valley, a perfect retreat for outdoor lovers.

The initial part of the trail was a comfortable climb on a mountain gravel road, but as we ascended, the challenge increased. The trail became steeper, and in some sections, we had to push and carry our bikes. It was arduous, but the thought of the downhill awaiting us kept us motivated.

Sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most rewarding views.

Reaching Passo dell'Invergneux was a triumph. At 2,908 meters, the views were simply spectacular. Majestic peaks and lush valleys stretched out before us, a paradise for any photographer. Olivia, ever the nurse, reminded me to take it easy and hydrate, but even she couldn't resist snapping a few photos. The sense of accomplishment was immense, knowing we had conquered this challenging pass together. I thought back to my childhood in Kimberley, South Africa, and how the wide-open spaces there had instilled in me a love for exploration. This was a different kind of beauty, but it resonated just as deeply.

After soaking in the views at Passo dell'Invergneux, we began our descent towards Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II. The downhill was exhilarating, one of the longest and best descents in the Alps. The trail flowed, and we found ourselves gliding down with ease. We were surrounded by stunning scenery with every turn.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Aosta Valley at Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, your perfect mountain cabin retreat.

Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, nestled on the shores of Lago Moncorvé, was a sight to behold. The refuge is a popular starting point for climbing Gran Paradiso, and its history is palpable. Built in 1884 and later expanded, it's dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy, who was fond of the area as a royal hunting reserve. Inside, the refuge was bustling with climbers and hikers from all over the world. We secured a spot for lunch and enjoyed a hearty meal, swapping stories with fellow adventurers.

The Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II stands at 2,732 meters, offering panoramic views and a serene environment. It serves as a base for climbing Gran Paradiso and other peaks, and it's a popular stop along the Alta Via n°4. The refuge is open from late May to mid-September, offering 120 beds in 24 rooms. It's a place steeped in history, and it's easy to imagine the many climbers who have passed through its doors over the years.

For lunch, we opted to try Rifugio Massimo Mila. The refuge is nestled on the shores of Lago di Ceresole, surrounded by enchanting peaks. The rustic decor and warm atmosphere made it an inviting place to relax. We dined on traditional alpine dishes, savoring the local ingredients and flavors. The views from the terrace were unforgettable, enhancing our meal with the beauty of the alpine region.


Experience authentic alpine cuisine at Rifugio Massimo Mila, nestled in the breathtaking Italian Alps – a perfect blend of nature and tradition.

After our satisfying lunch, we made our way to Birrificio '63 for a well-deserved beer. Located in Aosta, it's a brewpub that offers Aosta's finest craft brews and authentic Italian cuisine. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and we enjoyed sampling a few of their unique beers. The atmosphere was lively, and it was a great way to unwind after a long day of hiking.


Experience Aosta's finest craft brews and authentic Italian cuisine at Birrificio '63, the ultimate brewpub destination.

Later, we headed to Ristorante Hostellerie De L'Atelier for dinner. This restaurant, located in Cogne, is known for its Italian cuisine and comfortable ambiance. We enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the local flavors and enjoying the cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Hostellerie De L'Atelier in Cogne – where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our guesthouse, reflecting on the day's adventures. The climb to Passo dell'Invergneux, the history of Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, and the stunning beauty of Gran Paradiso had left us both in awe. It was a day of physical challenge, historical immersion, and natural beauty, a perfect blend of everything we love about travel.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Roncas Palace and tackle the Ferrata Monte Emilius. It sounds like another thrilling day, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us.

Looking ahead, I am also hoping to find some time to explore the Gran Paradiso Film Festival, or the events in Aosta, if time allows. There is also a presentation by Gran Paradiso National Park staff on the topic of river ecosystems, accompanied by a Jazz concert in Locana on August 1st, which could be interesting.

Back in Kelowna, I often find myself caught up in the routine of work and daily life. But here, surrounded by the towering peaks of Gran Paradiso, I feel a sense of freedom and connection to nature that I rarely experience elsewhere. It's a reminder of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the unknown. And as Olivia and I continue our journey, I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with her, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Perhaps we'll even inspire Thando to join us on a future adventure, sharing the beauty of the world with the next generation.