Exploring the Wild Beauty of Gran Paradiso

Finding Serenity and Splendor

Today was a day of contrasts, blending spiritual reflection with the raw power of nature. Gran Paradiso National Park continues to surprise and delight, offering experiences that feed both the soul and the senses. Olivia and I set out early, eager to explore the hidden gems tucked away in this alpine paradise.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at La Maison du Gout Café. It's a charming spot, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries filled the air. I opted for a simple omelette, while Olivia enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and bread. Fuelled up and ready for the day, we set off towards our first destination: the Eremo di San Grato.

The drive to Charvensod, the starting point for the hike to the hermitage, was beautiful. The winding roads offered stunning views of the Aosta Valley, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. As we parked the car and began our ascent, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The trail, marked as route 102, promised a moderate challenge with rewarding views.

The hike itself was a journey through lush woodlands, the air thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. The path was well-maintained, but the steady incline definitely got our hearts pumping. Olivia, ever the nature enthusiast, pointed out various wildflowers and explained their medicinal properties. I was more focused on not tripping, but I appreciated her knowledge nonetheless. We passed other hikers along the way, exchanging smiles and nods of encouragement. There's a certain camaraderie among those who choose to explore the mountains on foot.

The higher we climbed, the more breathtaking the panorama became, a tapestry of green valleys and rugged peaks stretching as far as the eye could see.

After about two hours and forty minutes, we finally reached the Eremo di San Grato. Perched at an altitude of 1,773 meters, the hermitage is a small, white chapel that exudes an aura of peace and tranquility. According to local tradition, Saint Grato, the bishop and patron saint of Aosta, often retreated to this spot to meditate and pray. The earliest records of the chapel date back to the 13th century, with expansions and renovations taking place over the centuries.


Discover the tranquility of Eremo di San Grato, a breathtaking hermitage in Aosta Valley, perfect for spiritual reflection and scenic views.

Inside, the chapel was simple yet beautiful, adorned with frescoes depicting the life of Saint Grato. The air was cool and still, a welcome respite from the warm August sun. Olivia and I took a moment to sit in silence, reflecting on the serenity of the surroundings. It's amazing how a place of worship, tucked away in the mountains, can offer such a sense of calm and perspective. I found myself thinking about my own life, my family back in Kelowna, and the simple blessings we often take for granted. It was a moment of genuine connection, a reminder of the importance of faith and reflection in our busy lives.

Leaving the hermitage, we descended with lighter hearts, the stunning views now imbued with a deeper sense of meaning. Instead of retracing our steps entirely, we decided to take a slightly different route, one that led us towards our next destination: Cascata Biolet.

After a quick drive, we arrived in Lillaz, a charming hamlet known for its waterfalls. We parked the car and followed the signs towards Cascata Biolet, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. The trail was relatively easy, a gentle stroll through a forest that opened up to reveal the cascading falls.

Cascata Biolet is a sight to behold. The water plunges down rocky cliffs in a series of tiers, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty. The spray from the falls created a cool mist that kissed our faces as we approached, a welcome refreshment after our earlier hike. We spent a good hour exploring the various viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective on the cascading water. Olivia, of course, was in her element, snapping photos from every angle. I simply stood in awe, marveling at the forces of nature that had sculpted this stunning landscape.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata Biolet, a stunning waterfall in Aosta Valley, surrounded by serene nature and picturesque hiking trails.

By now, our stomachs were beginning to rumble, so we made our way to Ristorante La Genzianella for a late lunch. This restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, and the menu was filled with tempting options. I opted for the homemade tortelloni, while Olivia chose a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. The food was delicious, the flavors fresh and vibrant. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of hiking and exploring.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we'd had so far in Gran Paradiso National Park. From the spiritual heights of Eremo di San Grato to the cascading wonders of Cascata Biolet, this region has a way of captivating the soul. It's a place where nature and culture intertwine, offering something for everyone. I was thinking about Thando back home in Kelowna, and how much he would have enjoyed seeing the waterfall.

After lunch, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Quot Café Green Bar. This cozy spot is known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. I ordered a glass of local wine, while Olivia opted for a cappuccino. We sat outside, soaking in the last rays of the afternoon sun, and watched as locals and tourists mingled and chatted. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover Quot Café Green Bar in Aosta – a cozy spot for local wines, delightful drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere to relax and unwind.

For dinner, we had reservations at La Lanterna del Duca, a restaurant known for its traditional Aosta Valley cuisine. We were both looking forward to experiencing the local flavors and savoring the culinary delights of the region.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Lanterna del Duca in Ceresole Reale – where delicious food meets stunning alpine views.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Sentiero Natura Cogne and Castello Reale di Sarre. I'm particularly excited about the nature trail, as I've heard it offers a unique opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna. Olivia is eager to visit the castle, as she has a fascination with history and architecture. We'll start the day with breakfast at Le Barmé de l'Ours, followed by lunch at Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio. In the afternoon, we might stop by La Bottega di Gibi to pick up some local souvenirs.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Gran Paradiso National Park has a way of reminding you of the simple joys in life: the beauty of nature, the power of faith, and the importance of human connection. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of this incredible day.

The Gran Paradiso Film Festival is also taking place in various villages in the Gran Paradiso valleys in August. It aims to deepen the knowledge of the natural heritage and develop a sensitivity of full respect for the environment. This might be something to check out during our trip.

It is worth noting that there is an exhibition by Fabrizio Ottoz in Morgex from July 23 to August 10, 2025. The exhibition features oil paintings of mountain landscapes. This could be an interesting activity for those interested in art.