Exploring the Wild Beauty of Gran Paradiso

A Day of Exploration and Reflection

Today was a blend of natural wonder and historical intrigue, a combination that always invigorates my soul. Gran Paradiso National Park continues to surprise and delight, revealing new facets of its beauty with each passing day. Olivia and I set out with eager hearts, ready to embrace whatever adventures awaited us. From the serene trails of Sentiero Natura Cogne to the regal halls of Castello Reale di Sarre, it was a day filled with exploration and reflection.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Sentiero Natura Cogne, a natural wonder in Aosta Valley with stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Le Barmé de l'Ours. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a day filled with exploration had us both in high spirits. After fuelling up, we headed towards Sentiero Natura Cogne, a nature trail that promised a gentle immersion into the park's flora and fauna.

The air was crisp and clean as we started our walk, the scent of pine filling our lungs. The trail meandered through lush meadows and dense woodlands, with the occasional clearing offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Olivia, ever the keen observer, spotted a variety of wildflowers, their vibrant colors adding splashes of joy to the landscape. I tried my hand at capturing their beauty with my camera, hoping to preserve these fleeting moments of natural artistry. We even took the cable car up to the top of the trail, which was quite fun.
As we walked, we noticed several families enjoying the trail, their laughter echoing through the trees. It was heartening to see so many people connecting with nature, especially the children, who seemed particularly fascinated by the various plants and insects along the way. This reminded me of Thando back home in Kelowna and how much he would have loved to explore this trail with us. I made a mental note to find similar trails back home so we can continue to nurture his love for the outdoors.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

After a refreshing morning hike, our stomachs started to rumble, guiding us towards Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio for lunch. This charming eatery promised a taste of traditional cuisine from Cogne, and we were eager to indulge. The trattoria was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. Olivia and I managed to snag a cozy corner table and perused the menu, our mouths watering at the descriptions of the various dishes.

We decided to share a platter of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by a hearty bread. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. We also sampled the Seupetta, a traditional dish, showcasing rich, perfectly cooked flavors. Olivia, with her nursing background, was particularly interested in the nutritional value of the ingredients, while I was more focused on savoring every mouthful. The staff were friendly and accommodating, adding to the overall warmth of the experience.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our afternoon adventure: a visit to Castello Reale di Sarre. This royal castle, with its storied past, promised a glimpse into the lives of Italian royalty and a deeper understanding of the region's history. As we approached the castle, its imposing facade commanded our attention, a reminder of the power and influence it once held.


Explore the enchanting Castello Reale di Sarre, a historic castle nestled in the breathtaking Aosta Valley, rich in history and architectural beauty.

The castle's interior was a treasure trove of historical artifacts and opulent furnishings. We wandered through the various rooms, each one telling a different story of the Savoy dynasty. I was particularly fascinated by the Hall of Trophies, a room adorned with the horns of ibexes and chamois, a testament to King Victor Emmanuel II's passion for hunting. Olivia, on the other hand, was drawn to the castle's art collection, admiring the intricate details and the stories they conveyed.

As we explored, we learned about the castle's transformation from a fortress to a royal residence. It was fascinating to imagine the kings and queens who once walked these halls, their lives intertwined with the fate of the Aosta Valley. The castle also offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, a reminder of the region's natural beauty and its strategic importance throughout history.
Before leaving Cogne, we stopped by La Bottega di Gibi, a local shop known for its handmade leather goods and artisanal shoes. I was immediately drawn to the craftsmanship and the attention to detail evident in every item. The owner, Gilberto, was a friendly and knowledgeable man, passionate about his craft and eager to share his expertise.


Discover La Bottega di Gibi in Cogne, where handcrafted shoes meet local artistry in a charming shopping experience.

Olivia and I spent some time browsing the shop, admiring the various bags, belts, and shoes on display. I was tempted to purchase a pair of handcrafted hiking boots, but I resisted, knowing that I already had a perfectly good pair back in Kelowna. Olivia, however, couldn't resist a beautiful leather handbag, its rich color and supple texture too alluring to pass up. We chatted with Gilberto about his work, learning about the traditional techniques he employed and the challenges of running a small business in a competitive market. It was inspiring to see his dedication and his commitment to preserving the region's artisanal heritage.

As evening approached, we made our way back to Cogne, our hearts full of memories and our minds buzzing with new knowledge. For dinner, we decided to try La Barme, enticed by its reputation for serving traditional Aosta Valley cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. The restaurant did not disappoint. I savored every bite of the hearty mountain fare. Olivia enjoyed the vegetarian options, which were equally delicious and thoughtfully prepared.


Discover La Barme: A Cozy Hotel Offering Gourmet Dining and Easy Access to Skiing Adventures in Stunning Aosta Valley.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how fortunate we were to experience the diverse offerings of Gran Paradiso National Park. From the invigorating hike along Sentiero Natura Cogne to the captivating history of Castello Reale di Sarre, it was a day that touched both our bodies and our minds. As we prepare for another day of exploration tomorrow, with plans to visit Orrido di Pré-Saint-Didier and Maison Bruil di Introd, I am filled with anticipation, eager to uncover more hidden gems in this enchanting corner of Italy. Perhaps we'll even find time to enjoy a drink at Artis Mixology & Lab [Artis Mixology & Lab is mentioned as an activity for tomorrow].
The beauty of Gran Paradiso is not just in its scenery, but in its ability to connect us with nature, history, and each other. It's a place where we can slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple joys of life. And as we continue our journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Olivia, my partner in life and adventure.