Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

Following Royal Footsteps in Gran Paradiso

Today, Greta and I immersed ourselves in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Gran Paradiso National Park. From exploring a former royal hunting house to wandering through expansive alpine meadows, it was a day filled with discovery and appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding us. It’s amazing how much history is woven into these mountains, and I’m excited to share our experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Barme in Valnontey. The hotel was charming, decorated in a traditional Alpine style, and the buffet had everything we needed to fuel up for our adventures. I enjoyed some local cheese and fresh bread, while Greta savored the homemade yogurt. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

After breakfast, we set off towards the Royal Hunting House at Orvieille. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the valleys below. As we approached the hunting house, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like for King Vittorio Emanuele II to traverse these same paths centuries ago. The hunting house, now restored, stands as a testament to the area's royal past. We explored the simple yet elegant structure, imagining the royal entourage seeking respite here after a long day of hunting. The views from Orvieille were simply majestic, offering a sweeping vista of the surrounding peaks and valleys.


Explore the Royal Hunting House at Orvieille, a historical gem in Aosta Valley, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.

Nature's beauty and history's echoes intertwine seamlessly in Gran Paradiso, creating an unforgettable experience.

The Royal Hunting House at Orvieille was originally built for the royal house of Savoia in the mid-19th century. Between 1860 and 1900, over 300 kilometers of mule-tracks were built to connect these hunting houses. The Orvieille house, along with the one at Gran Piano di Noasca, is still used today for research purposes. As we walked along some of these paths, I imagined the royal entourage coming from Turin or Valle d'Aosta, riding on horseback to these houses. The paths have a constant rise of about 8-10%, with remarkable dry stone walls and paved ground. It’s incredible how well-preserved many of these routes still are.

From Orvieille, we made our way to Prato di Sant’Orso, near Cogne. As we arrived, the expansive meadow unfolded before us. It’s known as one of the largest alpine meadows in Europe, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The vibrant green grass stretched out like a carpet, framed by the towering peaks of the Gran Paradiso massif. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of wildflowers.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Prato di Sant’Orso, a nature preserve in Aosta Valley, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and tranquil escapes.

We took a leisurely stroll through the meadow, enjoying the tranquility and the stunning scenery. The Prato di Sant’Orso is not only a natural wonder but also a place steeped in local history and tradition. Legend has it that Saint Orso of Aosta cleared the area of wild animals, making it habitable for the mountain villages. Today, it’s a haven for tourists and locals alike, a place where you can relax and soak in the beauty of the Alps. In the summer, the locals harvest hay for their livestock, while in the winter, the meadow transforms into a stage for international Nordic skiing competitions.

Greta, ever the avid photographer, was in her element, capturing the beauty of the landscape from every angle. I tried my hand at a few shots myself, but my skills are no match for her trained eye. Still, it was fun to try and capture the essence of this magical place.

Next on our agenda was a visit to Les Dentellières de Cogne, a local cooperative dedicated to preserving the traditional art of lace-making. This intricate craft dates back to the 16th century, when Benedictine nuns fleeing Cluny introduced it to the area. At the Maison di Pitz, we watched the artisans at work, their fingers moving with incredible speed and precision as they created delicate patterns on their tombolo cushions. Greta was particularly fascinated by the process, admiring the skill and dedication required to master this art. We ended up purchasing a small, hand-made doily as a memento of our visit, a tangible reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the region.


Explore the enchanting world of lace-making at Les Dentellières de Cogne, a unique craft store and art museum in the heart of Aosta Valley.

For lunch, we headed to Rifugio Massimo Mila, located next to the picturesque lake in Ceresole Reale. The rifugio is easily accessible by car, making it a popular spot for weekend tourists. We enjoyed a hearty meal of local specialties, including polenta with wild mushrooms and a delicious cheese platter. The rifugio itself was cozy and welcoming, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. I can see why it's so popular with hikers and families looking to experience the beauty of the Gran Paradiso National Park.


Experience authentic alpine cuisine at Rifugio Massimo Mila, nestled in the breathtaking Italian Alps – a perfect blend of nature and tradition.

In the afternoon, we took a short walk around the lake, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lake was crystal clear, reflecting the towering peaks like a mirror. It was a perfect spot to relax and soak in the tranquility of the natural surroundings. We even spotted a few windsurfers out on the water, taking advantage of the gentle breeze.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hotel du Grand Paradis - 1899 Auberge Boutique for dinner. The hotel is located in the heart of Cogne, and its restaurant is known for its refined cuisine and traditional Val d'Aosta dishes. The ambiance was elegant and inviting, with a touch of old-world charm. We savored a delicious meal of local specialties, paired with a bottle of regional wine. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Discover luxury and tradition at Hotel du Grand Paradis in Cogne's breathtaking Aosta Valley; your gateway to adventure awaits.

Looking back on the day, I realize how much we managed to pack in. From royal hunting houses to alpine meadows, from traditional lace-making to lakeside strolls, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Gran Paradiso National Park. As we head into tomorrow, we are planning on visiting Monte Creya and Sentiero Natura Cogne. I am excited to see what new adventures await us!

As I reflect on our experiences, I am reminded of how important it is to connect with nature and to appreciate the history and culture of the places we visit. Gran Paradiso National Park has offered us a unique opportunity to do just that, and I am grateful for the memories we have created here.

“The mountains are calling and I must go.” – John Muir. This quote perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being in Gran Paradiso. The mountains have a way of drawing you in, of making you feel small yet connected to something much larger than yourself. It’s a feeling I will carry with me long after we leave this beautiful place.

Good night from Gran Paradiso,
Joseph