Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

Reaching for the Roof of Gran Paradiso

Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively. The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as Greta and I set out to explore two iconic spots within Gran Paradiso National Park: Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II and Sentiero Miniere di Cogne. Each location offered a unique perspective on the park's natural beauty and rich history, leaving us with memories we'll cherish forever.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Aosta Valley at Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, your perfect mountain cabin retreat.


Discover the scenic beauty and historical richness of Sentiero Miniere di Cogne, a remarkable hiking trail in the heart of Aosta Valley, Italy.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at La Lanterna del Duca. I savored every bite, knowing we needed the energy for the day's adventures. The aroma of fresh coffee and pastries filled the air, setting a perfect tone for what was to come. After breakfast, we packed our essentials – water, snacks, and of course, my camera – and headed towards Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II.


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

The drive to the trailhead was stunning. The winding roads offered panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. Greta and I chatted about our experiences so far, reminiscing about the chamois we spotted earlier in the week and the charming villages we passed through. It's moments like these, sharing laughter and stories with my wife, that make these trips so special. As an ESL teacher, I often find myself drawing parallels between learning a new language and exploring a new place. Both require patience, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unfamiliar.

The hike to Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The trail wound its way up the mountainside, offering breathtaking views at every turn. We passed through lush meadows dotted with wildflowers, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the rugged terrain. The air was filled with the sound of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves, creating a symphony of nature that soothed the soul. As we ascended, the landscape transformed, becoming more rocky and barren. The snow-capped peaks loomed closer, their majestic presence inspiring awe and respect. I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment with each step, knowing that we were pushing ourselves both physically and mentally.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

Reaching Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was an experience in itself. Perched at an altitude of 2,732 meters, the refuge offered unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. We took a moment to catch our breath and soak in the beauty before exploring the refuge itself. The building has a rich history, originally built in 1884 and later expanded in 1961. It's dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy, who was a frequent visitor to the area. Inside, we found a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Hikers from all over the world gathered to share stories and experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie that transcended language and culture. We chatted with a group of Italian climbers who were preparing for their ascent to Gran Paradiso's summit. Their passion and determination were infectious, reminding me of the importance of setting goals and pursuing dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem.

After a quick lunch at Ristorante La Genzianella, we began our descent, retracing our steps back down the mountain. The views were just as stunning in reverse, offering a different perspective on the landscape. As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on the experience. Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was more than just a place; it was a symbol of human resilience and determination, a testament to our ability to overcome obstacles and reach for the sky. It reminded me of my own journey, from growing up in the small town of Micoud, Saint Lucia, to teaching English in Berlin. Each step of the way has been a challenge, but also an opportunity for growth and discovery.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Genzianella in Ceresole Reale, where tradition meets breathtaking alpine views.

In the afternoon, we drove to Cogne to explore Sentiero Miniere di Cogne, a hiking trail that winds through the area's historic mining sites. The trail offered a fascinating glimpse into the region's industrial past, showcasing the remnants of old mines and mining infrastructure. We started our hike at the village of Montroz. The path took us through a beautiful forest, with the sound of rushing water accompanying us. The trail then opened up to reveal stunning views of the valley below. As we walked, we learned about the history of magnetite mining in the area, which dates back centuries. The mines were once a major source of iron ore, employing hundreds of local workers. The trail led us past several abandoned mining buildings, their weathered facades a reminder of a bygone era. We explored the ruins, imagining what life must have been like for the miners who toiled in these mountains. It was a humbling experience, giving us a newfound appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices of those who came before us.

One of the highlights of the trail was the opportunity to meet one of the last miners who worked in the Cogne mines. He shared stories of his time underground, describing the challenges and dangers of the job. His passion for the mines and his community was evident, and his words resonated deeply with me. As an ESL teacher, I often work with immigrants and refugees who have faced their own set of challenges. I try to instill in them the same sense of resilience and determination that I witnessed in the old miner. After our hike, we stopped at Vertical Store Aosta to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful postcard of Gran Paradiso, which I plan to send to my students in Berlin. I want to share my experiences with them, inspiring them to explore the world and pursue their own adventures.


Explore the best sportswear and gear at Vertical Store Aosta, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventure in the Aosta Valley.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a delicious dinner at Hotel Sant'Orso - Mountain Lodge & Spa. The restaurant offered a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We savored traditional Aosta Valley cuisine, enjoying dishes made with local ingredients and flavors. Greta and I reflected on our day, sharing our favorite moments and discussing what we had learned. We both agreed that it had been a truly unforgettable experience, one that had deepened our appreciation for the natural beauty and rich history of Gran Paradiso National Park.


Discover tranquility at Hotel Sant'Orso - where luxury meets nature in the stunning Aosta Valley.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our alpine adventure. We're planning to visit Castello Reale di Sarre and Orrido di Prè-Saint-Didier before heading back to Turin for our flight to Berlin. I'm excited to see what these final destinations have in store for us, but I'm also a little sad to be leaving this beautiful corner of Italy. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, exploring new cultures, and spending quality time with loved ones. As we prepare to return to our everyday lives, I know that the memories and experiences we've gained here will stay with us forever.

Back at our campsite, Greta and I sat by the crackling fire, sipping hot cocoa and gazing at the starlit sky. The silence was broken only by the gentle sounds of the forest, creating a sense of peace and tranquility that was hard to describe. I wrapped my arm around Greta, feeling grateful for her presence and for the opportunity to share these incredible experiences with her. As I looked up at the stars, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. The universe is so vast and mysterious, and we are just a small part of it. But in moments like these, surrounded by nature and loved ones, I feel a sense of connection to something larger than myself. And that, I realized, is what travel is all about: connecting with the world, with others, and with ourselves. It's about discovering new perspectives, challenging our assumptions, and expanding our horizons. And it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile. Today had been a day of adventure, discovery, and connection. And as I looked forward to our final day in Gran Paradiso, I knew that the best was yet to come.