Exploring the Wild Beauty of Gran Paradiso

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a beautiful blend of history, nature, and gastronomy. Gran Paradiso never ceases to amaze me with its diverse offerings. It's a place where you can step back in time and then immediately be grounded in the present with a delicious meal and stunning views.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Sant'Orso in Cogne. The aroma of fresh pastries and local cheeses filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. Olivia and I enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the regional flavors before embarking on our journey to Verrès Castle.

The drive to Verrès was scenic, with the landscape transforming from lush meadows to rugged terrain. As we approached the town, the imposing silhouette of Verrès Castle came into view. Perched atop a rocky promontory, it looked like something straight out of a medieval fairytale.

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

Built in the 14th century by Ibleto di Challant, Verrès Castle is an architectural marvel. Its monolithic structure, a departure from the typical multi-building castles of the time, immediately captured my attention. Olivia and I spent a couple of hours wandering through its austere yet fascinating interiors. The sheer thickness of the walls and the strategic placement of the castle spoke volumes about its defensive purpose. We learned about the power struggles that played out within those walls and the noble families who once called it home. The castle's history is rich and complex, with the earliest records dating back to 1287 when it was owned by the De Verretio family. It later came into the possession of the Counts of Savoy, who granted it to Yblet de Challant in 1372.


Discover the historical allure and stunning views of Verrès Castle in the heart of Aosta Valley, a must-see for every traveler in Italy.

After immersing ourselves in medieval history, we drove back towards Gran Paradiso National Park for a change of scenery. Our destination was Petit Poignon, a peak offering panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape. The drive itself was an experience, winding through narrow roads with hairpin turns, each bend revealing a new vista of breathtaking beauty.


Explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of Aosta Valley at Petit Poignon, a tranquil tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers.

The trail to Petit Poignon started gently, meandering through a forest of larch and fir trees. As we gained altitude, the path steepened, and the vegetation thinned out, giving way to rocky terrain. The views became increasingly rewarding with each step. We paused frequently to catch our breath and take in the vistas.

Reaching the summit of Petit Poignon was exhilarating. From there, we could see the entire Gran Paradiso massif, its snow-capped peaks piercing the azure sky. The valleys below were a patchwork of green and gold, dotted with tiny villages and grazing livestock. We spent a good hour at the top, simply soaking in the tranquility and grandeur of the Alps. We also saw the remains of an ancient Roman aqueduct nearby.

For lunch, we descended to Rifugio Tetras Lyre - Campo Base Gran Paradiso. This mountain refuge, nestled in a wide green glade, offered a welcome respite and some hearty mountain fare. Olivia and I shared a plate of polenta, a regional specialty, and some local cheese, while enjoying the company of fellow hikers. The refuge had a rustic charm, with wooden interiors and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It was the perfect place to refuel and recharge before the next leg of our day.


Experience the charm of Rifugio Tetras Lyre: your cozy mountain retreat nestled in Gran Paradiso National Park with exquisite dining options.

In the late afternoon, we made a detour to Aosta to visit Mountain Shop Aosta. I needed to pick up a new pair of hiking socks, and Olivia wanted to browse their selection of outdoor gear. The store was well-stocked with everything from hiking boots to climbing equipment, and the staff were knowledgeable and helpful. I managed to find the socks I needed, and Olivia picked up a new waterproof jacket.


Discover top-quality outdoor gear and apparel at Mountain Shop Aosta, your ultimate destination for adventure in the stunning Aosta Valley.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Lou Ressignon in Cogne. This restaurant, known for its traditional Aosta Valley cuisine, did not disappoint. We started with a tagliere of local cured meats and cheeses, followed by seupetta à la Cogneintse, a traditional Cogne rice soup with Fontina cheese. For the main course, I opted for the carbonada of beef cheek with polenta, while Olivia chose the trout hamburger with purple potato chips. Every dish was a celebration of local ingredients and culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Lou Ressignon in Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Aosta Valley.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. From the medieval battlements of Verrès Castle to the panoramic vistas of Petit Poignon and the gastronomic delights of Cogne, it had been a day of contrasts and discoveries. Gran Paradiso continues to surprise and inspire me with its blend of history, nature, and culture.

Tomorrow, we're planning to hike to Passo dell'Invergneux and Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II. I'm looking forward to more breathtaking scenery and challenging trails. Before that, we'll have breakfast at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago, and then we'll have lunch at Rifugio Massimo Mila. In the evening, we'll be trying out Birrificio '63.