Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

A Dream Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, Greta and I finally arrived in Gran Paradiso National Park. The journey from Berlin to Turin and then the drive to the park was smooth, filled with excitement and the kind of shared anticipation that makes traveling with my wife so special. As an ESL teacher, I always tell my students that the best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in the culture, and what better way to immerse ourselves than by exploring the stunning landscapes of Italy? Today was all about setting the stage for what promises to be an incredible week of hiking, exploring, and connecting with nature.

Our day began early, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at Rifugio Tetras Lyre - Campo Base Gran Paradiso. The rifugio was cozy, and the mountain air was crisp and invigorating. It felt a world away from the bustling streets of Berlin. The views from the rifugio were simply breathtaking; the majestic Gran Paradiso 4061m peak loomed in the distance, a constant reminder of the adventure that lay ahead. I remember thinking back to my childhood in Micoud, Saint Lucia, and how different this landscape was from the tropical paradise I grew up in. Yet, both places held a unique kind of beauty that stirred the soul.


Experience the charm of Rifugio Tetras Lyre: your cozy mountain retreat nestled in Gran Paradiso National Park with exquisite dining options.

After breakfast, we decided to tackle the hike to Gran Paradiso 4061m. Though we didn't plan to summit it today, getting closer to the mountain was a must. The trail was challenging but rewarding, with every turn offering a new, stunning vista. Greta, ever the librarian, was fascinated by the local flora, pointing out various alpine flowers and their unique adaptations to the harsh mountain environment. I, on the other hand, was more focused on capturing the scenery with my camera, trying to frame each shot to do justice to the grandeur of the landscape.


Explore the breathtaking Gran Paradiso, Italy's first national park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await every nature lover and adventure enthusiast.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

As we hiked, we encountered fellow travelers from all over the world, each drawn to this place by its promise of adventure and natural beauty. We shared stories and tips, a reminder of the universal appeal of travel and exploration. I even practiced my (admittedly still shaky) Italian, much to the amusement of a group of hikers from Milan. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the value of cultural exchange, something I try to instill in my students back in Berlin.

After a few hours of hiking, we descended and made our way to Cascate di Lillaz. The waterfalls were nothing short of spectacular. The crystal-clear water cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. The hike around the waterfalls was relatively easy, a welcome change after our earlier trek. Greta was particularly captivated by the falls, and I couldn't resist taking numerous photos, trying to capture the ethereal quality of the scene. I can see why the Cascate di Lillaz are a popular destination. Even in June, with the sun shining, the spray from the falls was cool and refreshing. The sound of the water was incredibly soothing, a perfect way to unwind after our morning hike.


Discover the enchanting Cascate di Lillaz in Aosta Valley, where majestic waterfalls and scenic hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we stopped at Bar Ristorante Valnontey in Valnontey. We enjoyed some delicious local cuisine, savoring every bite. Greta, with her German practicality, appreciated the hearty flavors and the generous portions. I, with my Caribbean palate, was intrigued by the subtle blend of spices and herbs. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to enjoy a taste of authentic Italian fare. I tried to explain to Greta some of the nuances of Caribbean cooking, and we laughed as I described the elaborate preparations involved in making a proper Saint Lucian stew.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Bar Ristorante Valnontey in Aosta Valley.

After lunch, we took some time to explore the Alpine World Shop and Guides in Cogne. I was hoping to find a portable charger since I had forgotten mine, but no luck. The shop had a wide array of hiking gear and souvenirs. It was interesting to see the variety of equipment available for mountaineering and hiking, a testament to the popularity of outdoor activities in this region. Greta picked up a small guidebook on the local flora, adding to her already extensive collection of books.


Explore the Aosta Valley at Alpine World Shop and Guides: Your premier destination for sporting goods and guided alpine adventures.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Lou Ressignon for dinner. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food was exceptional. The cozy interior, with its wooden ceilings and red booths, created a welcoming ambiance. The menu offered traditional flavors with gourmet variations, and the staff was incredibly knowledgeable about wine pairings. I opted for a local specialty, while Greta, ever the adventurous one, tried something completely new. We savored each course, discussing our favorite moments from the day and making plans for the days ahead. I was reminded of dinners back in Berlin, where we often invite friends over to share a meal and stories from our travels. Food, after all, is a universal language that brings people together.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Lou Ressignon in Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Aosta Valley.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to explore the Giardino botanico alpino Paradisia and the Fondation Grand Paradis. We plan to have breakfast at Ristorante Sant'Orso, lunch at Hotel Restaurant Paradisia, and dinner at Ristorante e Locanda Chalet del Lago. Greta is particularly looking forward to visiting the botanical garden, while I'm eager to learn more about the region's history and culture at the Fondation Grand Paradis. We might even stop by Vinosteria Antirouille for a drink in the evening.

As I write this, sitting in our tent under the vast, starlit sky, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and spend quality time with my wife. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share my experiences with others. The mountains, the waterfalls, the food, the people – it all adds up to an unforgettable adventure.

Tomorrow promises new discoveries and challenges, and I can't wait to see what Gran Paradiso National Park has in store for us. Until then, goodnight from the Italian Alps!

The weather in June here is quite pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 63°F, making it ideal for hiking. We were lucky to have clear skies today, but we're prepared for potential rain in the coming days. Packing the right gear is essential, and I'm glad we brought our hiking boots and warm clothing. I only wish I hadn't forgotten the sunscreen and the portable charger! But, as they say, every adventure has its little hiccups. And that's part of what makes it so memorable.

I am very excited for tomorrow, and I hope you will join me again as we continue our exploration of Gran Paradiso!