Exploring the Wild Beauty of Gran Paradiso

A Journey Through Time

Today was a day of contrasts, a delightful dance between ancient Roman grandeur and medieval mystique. Leaving the serene landscapes of the Gran Paradiso National Park behind for a day, Olivia and I ventured into the heart of Aosta Valley, eager to explore the historical treasures nestled within its charming towns. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small region.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Old Grizzly. I opted for the classic eggs benedict, while Olivia chose the blueberry Dutch baby pancake. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the wonders that awaited us.

Arco di Augusto: A Roman Salute

Our first stop was the Arco di Augusto in Aosta, a majestic Roman triumphal arch that has stood for over two millennia. Built in 25 BC to honor Emperor Augustus, the arch served as a gateway to the ancient city and a symbol of Roman power. As we approached the arch, its towering stone pillars and intricate carvings transported us back to the Roman era. It's strategically positioned at the entrance of the city, which emphasizes its historical importance as a gateway to Aosta.

History whispers from every stone, reminding us of the empires that have risen and fallen, leaving their indelible mark on the landscape.

Olivia and I strolled around the vibrant piazzas surrounding the arch, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city. Informative plaques provided insights into the arch's significance and the history of the region. I tried to imagine what it must have been like to walk through this arch as a Roman citizen, returning home after a long journey or setting off to conquer new lands. The arch is not only a visual delight but also a great spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the arch is beautifully illuminated.


Visit the Arco di Augusto in Aosta, Italy, and step back in time to explore this monumental Roman triumphal arch surrounded by the beauty of the Alps.

After immersing ourselves in Roman history, we grabbed lunch at Albergo Gran Paradiso. The restaurant offered a delightful menu of local specialties. I chose a pasta dish with fresh pesto, while Olivia enjoyed a salad with local cheeses. The perfect fuel for our next adventure!

Castello Sarriod de La Tour: A Medieval Enigma

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the Castello Sarriod de La Tour, a medieval castle located in Saint-Pierre. As we drove towards the castle, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of rolling hills and vineyards, a picturesque setting for a medieval fortress. The castle dates back to the 13th century, with expansions and renovations carried out over the centuries by the Sarriod family.

The castle is reached by walking along a short path on the plain of Saint-Pierre, flanked by apple trees and gardens. When the weather is good the flow of the Dora Baltea can be heard, a stone's throw away. The oldest part of the castle included a chapel and square tower, or donjon, surrounded by the castle walls, typical of the Aosta Valley 10th- to 12th-century castles.

As we stepped inside the castle, we were greeted by the impressive Hall of Heads. This hall gets its name from the intricate decorative motifs featuring 171 corbels of grotesques, depicting mythological monsters and animals bearing coats of arms. It's a sight that will leave you in awe of the craftsmanship of the time. The castle's interior showcases period furniture, artwork, and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Sarriod family.

Wandering through the castle's rooms, we felt transported back to a bygone era, imagining the knights and nobles who once walked these halls. The views from the castle towers were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The serene atmosphere surrounding the castle makes it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and photography, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.


Explore the majestic Castello Sarriod de La Tour, a medieval castle steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Aosta Valley.

Before leaving Saint-Pierre, we took a moment to appreciate the charm of the town itself. We strolled through its narrow streets, admiring the traditional stone houses and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The nearby Dora Baltea River offered a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely walk.

Shopping for Magic

Before heading back to our guesthouse, Olivia and I decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We stopped by La Bottega Incantata, a charming shop in Aosta that specializes in handcrafted treasures and unique gifts. I was hoping to find a djembe drum, something to remind me of home, but sadly they didn't have one. It was still fun browsing the quirky items and soaking in the atmosphere of the shop.


Explore La Bottega Incantata in Aosta for a curated selection of antiques, linens, novelties, and perfumes, perfect for unique souvenirs.

I was a little sad to hear that La Bottega Incantata in Trieste is closing soon. Apparently, the owners are moving on to other projects, but it's always a shame to see a unique shop close its doors.

A Culinary Finale

For dinner, we ventured to Osteria Dei Viaggiatori in Noasca, a restaurant known for its traditional Piedmontese cuisine. The osteria is located in Frera Superiore, a charming hamlet of Noasca, nestled on the right of the Orco stream. The restaurant offers a variety of local and national dishes, providing an authentic culinary experience.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Dei Viaggiatori in Frera Superiore - where every meal is a celebration of local tradition.

We started with a selection of antipasti, including fried tomini cheese and salmon trout with herbs from Gran Paradiso. For our main courses, Olivia chose the carne alla losa, a local specialty of meat cooked on a hot stone, while I opted for the braised veal cheek. The meal was a true celebration of Piedmontese flavors, a perfect ending to a day of historical and cultural exploration.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the grandeur of the Arco di Augusto to the medieval charm of Castello Sarriod de La Tour, we had journeyed through time, experiencing the rich history and culture of the Aosta Valley.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Sentiero Miniere di Cogne and the Cascata di Noasca. I'm particularly excited about the Sentiero Miniere di Cogne, as I'm fascinated by the history of mining and industry in this region. After a day of hiking, we'll unwind at Bar Centrale, a local bar known for its friendly atmosphere.

It’s been an amazing trip so far, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Events in Aosta Valley

There are many events taking place in Aosta Valley during the summer. These include:
• Metamorphosis - theatrical performance
• Foire Festival - Coro La Vie est Belle
• Valle d'Aosta Mont Blanc International Bicycle Race
• Exhibit and competition of the traditional Aosta Valley handicraft
• Cervino CineMountain
• MusicCogne
• Hot Air Balloon Flight Over the Matterhorn and the Alps