The Dolomites are often the first mountains that spring to mind when one thinks about visiting the great outdoors in Italy. There is plenty for everyone to do in this well-known mountainous Italian paradise, whether it be skiing down slopes that have been well groomed, trekking through stunning alpine meadows, or visiting lovely towns.
On the other hand, when you go away from the throng in the Dolomites and find yourself snuggled between the provinces of Piedmont and Val d’Aosta near the border with France, you will find a breathtaking jewel. Away from the rush and bustle of its more famous cousin, Gran Paradiso National Park is home to a breathtakingly natural beauty that really transcends expectations.
The landscape of Gran Paradiso, which is Italy’s oldest national park, is exceptional in terms of both its beauty and its history. After the Savoy royal family’s very own King Victor Emmanuel III gave his cherished hunting grounds to the Italian people in 1922, the region was designated as a national park. Prior to that, it had been classified as a game reserve for the Savoy royal family.
Access to the Piedmont and Aosta sides of the park may be gained via Turin Airport, as well as by bus, rail, or vehicle. Transportation to the park is straightforward. Gran Paradiso National Park is a destination that appeals to a wide variety of interests once you arrive. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker who wants to climb the 13,323-foot Gran Paradiso peak or a vacationer who wants to take in the pure mountain air from the comfort of your hotel balcony, the choices are almost limitless.
Explore the natural plants & creatures up close & personal
Gran Paradiso National Park is home to an incredible variety of flora and animals, which may be seen by tourists while they are visiting the park. Over the course of the 19th century, the Alpine Ibex, which served as the park’s most prominent inhabitant and icon, was in danger of becoming extinct. Nevertheless, the International Conservation Union for Conservation of Nature reports that the park’s ibex population has been restored back to over 4,000 as a result of the remarkable conservation efforts that have been undertaken.
On the Alpine Ibex Trail, which is 25 miles long and offers views from meadows to mountains, visitors may also see ibex, marmots, and golden eagles. This trail is a great opportunity for anyone who are interested in these well-known long-horned wild goats.
The Paradisia Alpine Botanic Garden in Valnontey is an attraction that botany enthusiasts will not want to miss out on. This magnificent garden, which is located at an elevation of 5,557 feet and is perched between mountain peaks, is home to more than one thousand different varieties of alpine plants, both local and international.
Visit the garden between the middle of June and the middle of July to see a sea of blooms set against the background of the dreamlike mountains. Those who are wishing to see the garden in full bloom should do so during this time period. Beginning in June and continuing through September, visitors may pay a charge of three euros to enter the garden.
Trails for hiking that are located inside Gran Paradiso National Park
There is no better way to explore Gran Paradiso National Park than on foot, considering that the park has paths that stretch for more than 300 kilometers.
The Gran Paradiso Circuit is the best option for hikers with experience who want to completely immerse themselves in the rough and varied scenery. During this four-day adventure, trekkers will go from hut to hut, passing snow-capped mountains, powerful waterfalls, and through lush alpine meadows. Along the route, they will be treated to breathtaking vistas of glaciers and the awe-inspiring landmark Mont Blanc.
The Valnontey River Trail is a great hiking destination for families with children. This walk is 1.3 miles long and follows the flowing Valnontey River. The trail is well maintained and level, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, which are contrasted with the charming Italian farmhouses that are found in the region.
The months of May through September are great for hiking in the park since the weather is at its most comfortable and there is no snow on the trails during this period. It is essential to make reservations for accommodations and excursions in advance so that you do not miss out on the peak season, which occurs in August, when the majority of Europeans are on vacation. The high elevation may be difficult for some people to acclimate to; in order to ensure that everyone has a nice time on a trek, you need make sure that you are well-versed on how to prevent altitude sickness.
It is important to remember to bring these necessary gear for hiking on vacation in order to make your trip to Grand Paradiso National Park an experience that you will never forget. The tough and diverse terrain also demands different equipment than the normal Italian getaway. Remember to carry these essentials.