Exploring the Alpine Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

Alpine Adventures in Gran Paradiso: A Day on Monte Creya & Sentiero Natura Cogne

Today was nothing short of spectacular! Greta and I embarked on a journey that took us through some of the most stunning landscapes Gran Paradiso National Park has to offer. From conquering Monte Creya to wandering along the Sentiero Natura Cogne, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. It's days like these that remind me why I love exploring the great outdoors with my wife.

Our day began early, fueled by a hearty breakfast at Rifugio Grauson - 2510 m. The air was crisp, and the panoramic views from the rifugio were simply breathtaking. After a quick coffee and some pastries, we set off towards Monte Creya. The trail was challenging, but the anticipation of reaching the summit kept us motivated. As we ascended, the landscape transformed, revealing sweeping vistas of the Aosta Valley. I couldn't help but think of my students back in Berlin, and how much they would appreciate this view. I made a mental note to share some photos and stories with them during our next class.

The hike up Monte Creya was invigorating. The trail wound its way through rocky terrain and alpine meadows, with wildflowers adding splashes of color to the scenery. Greta, ever the enthusiastic photographer, captured countless shots of the landscape. I was particularly fascinated by the remains of old magnetite mines along the slopes of Monte Creya. It's incredible to think that mining activities in this area date back to Roman times, with communities built around the mines, complete with schools and hospitals for the families of the miners. These mines were a major source of income for the inhabitants until they closed in 1979.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

Reaching the summit of Monte Creya was an exhilarating experience. The 360-degree views were absolutely stunning, encompassing the entire Gran Paradiso massif. We spent a good hour at the top, soaking in the scenery and snapping photos. I even tried to identify some of the surrounding peaks using my travel guidebook, but the sheer number of mountains made it a bit challenging.


Discover the breathtaking views and outdoor adventures that await at Monte Creya in the enchanting Aosta Valley, Italy.

After descending from Monte Creya, we made our way to Sentiero Natura Cogne. This nature trail offered a more relaxed pace, allowing us to fully appreciate the park's biodiversity. The trail meandered through forests and meadows, with informative panels providing insights into the local flora and fauna. Greta was particularly excited to spot a variety of wildflowers, and she meticulously documented each one with her camera. I enjoyed learning about the different species of trees and plants that thrive in this alpine environment.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Sentiero Natura Cogne, a natural wonder in Aosta Valley with stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

For lunch, we stopped at La Brasserie du Bon Bec in Cogne. This charming restaurant offered a delightful selection of local dishes. Greta opted for the *polenta alla Valdostana*, while I savored the *frecachà*, a traditional Valdostan soup. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was the perfect spot to recharge after a day of hiking.


Experience authentic Aosta Valley cuisine at La Brasserie du Bon Bec in scenic Cogne—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

In the late afternoon, as we strolled through Cogne, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Old Distillery. This cozy bar had a rustic charm, with wooden beams and a welcoming atmosphere. I opted for a local craft beer, while Greta enjoyed a glass of wine. We chatted with the bartender, who shared some interesting facts about the area's history and culture. He even told us about some unique spirits being distilled nearby, including gin and genepy made using vacuum distillation at the Saint Bernard Distillery.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Old Distillery, a must-visit pub in Aosta offering local brews and delicious snacks in a cozy setting.

Before heading back to our campsite, we had dinner at Osteria Dei Viaggiatori. This charming osteria offered a traditional menu with hearty, home-style dishes. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, including *trota marinata* and *pierrade*, savoring every bite. The osteria had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff made us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Dei Viaggiatori in Frera Superiore - where every meal is a celebration of local tradition.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our incredible experiences. From the challenging hike up Monte Creya to the serene trails of Sentiero Natura Cogne, every moment was filled with wonder and beauty. I am so grateful to share these adventures with Greta, who always brings a sense of joy and enthusiasm to our travels.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Castello di Fénis and Maison Bruil di Introd. I've heard that Castello di Fénis is one of the most impressive medieval castles in the Aosta Valley, and I'm eager to learn more about its history. Maison Bruil di Introd, on the other hand, promises a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural life in the region. I am also looking forward to lunch at La Maison du Gout Café and dinner at Le Barmé de l'Ours. And, of course, we'll be sure to check out La Bottega Incantata for some unique souvenirs.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the beauty and wonder of Gran Paradiso National Park. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Days like these remind me why I love traveling – the chance to explore new places, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with the people I love. And as an ESL teacher, I always find ways to incorporate my travel experiences into my lessons, inspiring my students to explore the world and embrace new cultures.