Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

Alpine Waterfalls and Lakeside Serenity

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty of Gran Paradiso. Greta and I set out with a sense of adventure, ready to explore the natural wonders that this park holds. From cascading waterfalls to tranquil lakes, every moment was a feast for the senses. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the familiar comforts of Micoud for the unpredictable allure of the open road.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Trattoria Sonveulla Bar Salumificio in Cogne. The aroma of freshly baked bread and local salumi filled the cozy trattoria, instantly transporting me back to the comforting scents of my grandmother's kitchen in Saint Lucia. I opted for a simple yet satisfying meal of crusty bread, artisanal cheese, and a strong coffee. Greta, ever the adventurous foodie, chose a traditional polenta dish that she declared was the perfect fuel for a day of hiking. Reviews describe this Trattoria as a place to rediscover the ancient flavors of Cogne's traditions and I couldn't agree more. It was the perfect start to our day, setting the tone for the adventures that lay ahead.

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the Cascata di Noasca. The drive there was scenic, winding through lush valleys dotted with charming alpine villages. As we approached Noasca, the roar of the waterfall grew louder, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us. We parked the car and followed the well-marked trail leading to the falls. The path meandered through a dense forest, the air thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow that illuminated the path ahead. I couldn't help but think how different this was from the beaches of Micoud, yet equally captivating in its own way. Greta, ever the keen photographer, was already snapping away, capturing the play of light and shadow on the forest floor.

As we rounded a bend, the Cascata di Noasca came into view, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. The water plunged from a height of 32 meters, crashing onto the rocks below with a thunderous roar. Mist filled the air, creating a cool, refreshing spray that kissed our faces. The power and majesty of the falls were truly awe-inspiring. We spent a good hour simply marveling at the scene, taking photos and soaking in the natural beauty. I even tried my hand at capturing the perfect shot, channeling my inner photographer, but I quickly realized that no camera could truly capture the essence of this place. It was something that had to be experienced firsthand.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Cascata di Noasca, a stunning waterfall in Gran Paradiso National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Next on our itinerary was Lago Goletta, a serene alpine lake nestled high in the mountains. The drive to the trailhead was an adventure in itself, the road becoming increasingly narrow and winding as we ascended. We parked the car and began our hike, the trail immediately climbing steeply through a rocky landscape. The air was thin and crisp, and the views were simply stunning. We paused frequently to catch our breath and admire the panoramic vistas that stretched out before us. The higher we climbed, the more dramatic the scenery became, with jagged peaks and snow-capped mountains dominating the horizon. I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment with each step, knowing that we were pushing ourselves to new heights, both literally and figuratively.

The hike to Lago Goletta was challenging, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we crested a final ridge, the lake came into view, shimmering like a sapphire jewel against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the azure sky above. We found a secluded spot on the shore and sat in silence, simply soaking in the tranquility of the scene. It was a moment of pure bliss, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature on a deeper level. Greta and I shared a knowing glance, both of us feeling grateful for this shared experience.


Experience the serene beauty of Lago Goletta, an alpine lake in Aosta Valley, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we decided to try Bar à Fromage, restaurant de montagne, and it was an excellent choice. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional cuisine and focus on local cheeses. The interior was cozy and inviting, with a rustic fireplace and walls adorned with vintage farming tools. We started with a cheese platter, sampling a variety of regional specialties, each with its unique flavor and texture. For our main courses, I opted for a hearty mountain stew, while Greta chose a delicate pasta dish with wild mushrooms. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and attentive. It was the perfect place to refuel and recharge after our morning of hiking. The Bar à Fromage really delivered on its promise with fragrances, flavors, and dishes cooked slowly, staying true to the mountain traditions of Valle d'Aosta.


Discover authentic alpine cuisine at Bar à Fromage in Cogne, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Albergo Gran Paradiso for dinner. The hotel restaurant offered a more formal dining experience, with crisp white linens and attentive service. We were seated at a table with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, the setting sun casting a golden glow over the landscape. I ordered a classic Italian dish of osso buco, while Greta chose a fresh seafood risotto. The food was expertly prepared and beautifully presented, a fitting end to a day of culinary delights. The Albergo Gran Paradiso is a place where you can enjoy a meal while being surrounded by the beauty of the Gran Paradiso National Park. It was a perfect way to end our day, savoring the flavors of Italy while basking in the beauty of the alpine scenery.


Experience breathtaking mountain views and authentic local cuisine at Albergo Gran Paradiso in Valsavarenche's stunning Aosta Valley.

Before heading back to our campsite, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at Artis Mixology & Lab in Noasca. This trendy bar was a surprising find in such a small village, offering a creative menu of handcrafted cocktails. The bartender was a true mixologist, concocting unique and flavorful drinks using local ingredients and innovative techniques. I opted for a classic Negroni, while Greta chose a fruity concoction with a hint of alpine herbs. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. It was a fun and unexpected way to end our day, raising a glass to the adventures we had shared.


Discover Artis Mixology & Lab in Aosta for inventive cocktails and small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.

As we drove back to our campsite under a canopy of stars, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the majestic Cascata di Noasca to the serene Lago Goletta, every moment had been a testament to the beauty and wonder of Gran Paradiso. And as I thought about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II and Sentiero Miniere di Cogne, I knew that the adventures were far from over. I am excited to explore more of this park, and I look forward to sharing those experiences with you all.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II and Sentiero Miniere di Cogne. I am particularly excited about the hike to Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, as it promises stunning views of the surrounding peaks. I've heard that the refuge itself is a cozy and welcoming place, offering hearty meals and warm hospitality. And of course, I am eager to see the Sentiero Miniere di Cogne, a historic mining trail that winds through the mountains. I am fascinated by the history of this region, and I can't wait to learn more about the mining industry that once thrived here. Plus, Greta is keen on visiting Vertical Store Aosta. She says she needs some new gear for our hikes. I am always happy to support her hobbies, as long as she doesn't break the bank!

I am so grateful to be sharing this journey with Greta. Her enthusiasm and adventurous spirit make every day an unforgettable experience. And as I drift off to sleep under the starry sky, I know that tomorrow will bring even more adventures and discoveries. It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be living this life, exploring the world one adventure at a time.

In the meantime, I'm looking forward to sharing more stories and photos from our journey. Stay tuned for the next installment, and as always, thanks for following along!

Until then, *arrivederci* from Gran Paradiso!