Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

A Day of History and Heights

Our final day in Gran Paradiso National Park was a mix of historical exploration and thrilling views. As much as I've enjoyed the rugged trails and the serenity of camping in the wilderness, I was also looking forward to seeing some of the cultural landmarks the region had to offer. Today was all about that, and it was a fitting end to our alpine adventure with Greta.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Old Grizzly in Sarre. The family-run restaurant had a cozy, alpine atmosphere, and the food was a delightful mix of traditional and modern cuisine. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a pastry, while Greta enjoyed some local cheese and bread. Fueled up, we set off to explore Castello Reale di Sarre. This royal castle, with its roots in the 13th century, has a rich history, having been owned by various noble families before King Victor Emmanuel II, the 'Hunter King,' acquired it in 1869. It served as his base for hunting expeditions in the Gran Paradiso valleys. As we walked through the castle, we learned about its transformation over the centuries. From its early days as a fortified structure to its later use as a royal residence, each room had a story to tell.


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

The castle now houses the Museum of the Alps, which showcases the natural and cultural history of the Aosta Valley and the surrounding Alpine region. The exhibits covered everything from geology and wildlife to traditional crafts and the local way of life. I found the displays on the region's unique flora and fauna particularly fascinating, especially after having spent the last week immersed in the park's natural beauty. Greta was captivated by the historical reenactments and temporary art exhibitions, which added a contemporary touch to the historic setting. Wandering through the castle's gardens, we enjoyed panoramic views of the Aosta Valley. The well-preserved rooms, furnished with period furniture and adorned with art, offered a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Italian nobility.

The journey may end, but the memories and lessons learned will last a lifetime.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, we decided to grab lunch at LO SCIATORE Ristorante Bar. It was a delightful spot offering scenic views and traditional cuisine. Greta and I shared a pizza, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the past week. The restaurant's cozy ambiance and friendly service made it a perfect place to relax and recharge.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Lo Sciatore Ristorante Bar amidst breathtaking views in Ceresole Reale.

With renewed energy, we set off for our next destination: the Orrido di Pré-Saint-Didier. This natural canyon, carved by the Dora di Verney river, is a stunning example of the power of nature. But the real highlight was the panoramic skywalk suspended 160 meters above the gorge. As we stepped onto the skywalk, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. The views were simply breathtaking. The Mont Blanc massif loomed in the distance, while the village of Pré-Saint-Didier lay nestled below. Looking down, we could see the waterfall cascading into the gorge and the thermal spring cave.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Orrido di Pré-Saint-Didier, a stunning gorge in Aosta Valley perfect for hiking and scenic photography.

The skywalk itself is an impressive feat of engineering, with steel beams, pillars, and cables creating a safe and stable platform. Despite my initial hesitation, I quickly grew comfortable and was able to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. Greta, ever the adventurous one, was practically skipping across the skywalk, snapping photos and pointing out various landmarks. After soaking in the views, we took a leisurely stroll through the surrounding woods, enjoying the peace and quiet of the natural environment. The path leading to the skywalk was accessible to all fitness levels, and we saw families with young children and older couples enjoying the walk.

Our final dinner in Gran Paradiso was at Lou Bequet, a restaurant known for its traditional Alpine cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant, resembling a mountain chalet, welcomed us with a warm fireplace and a large window offering views of Cogne and the Sant'Orso meadow. We savored traditional dishes made with local products, reflecting on our incredible week in the park.


Experience exquisite Italian dining at Lou Bequet in Cogne - where tradition meets stunning Alpine scenery.

The Gran Paradiso soup, a regional specialty, was a highlight, its flavors changing with the seasons. We also enjoyed a hearty polenta with local cheese and mushrooms, a perfect dish for a cool evening. As we dined, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. The challenging hikes, the stunning vistas, the peaceful campsites, and the chance encounters with wildlife – it all added up to an unforgettable experience.

As we prepare to leave Gran Paradiso tomorrow and head back to Berlin, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a chance to reconnect with nature, challenge ourselves physically, and deepen our bond as a couple. I’m already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Before heading back to our campsite, we decided to stop by Beautiful bar for a nightcap. It was the perfect way to wind down and reflect on the day’s adventures. As we sipped our drinks, we talked about our favorite moments from the trip and made plans for future adventures. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the locals and fellow travelers.


Discover a charming pub in Aosta Valley with local flavors, extensive drinks, and a warm atmosphere perfect for tourists.

As we packed up our gear for the final time, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness. Gran Paradiso National Park had captured our hearts with its stunning beauty and challenging trails. But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and it was time for us to bid farewell to this alpine paradise. We'll carry the memories of our time here with us, and I know we'll be back someday to explore more of its hidden corners.

Tomorrow, we leave Italy and head back to Berlin. It’s always a mixed feeling, leaving a place you’ve grown to love. But home awaits, and I’m eager to get back to my students and share my stories with them. Until next time, arrivederci!

Safe travels, everyone!