Gran Paradiso National Park, National park in Aosta Valley, Italy
Description
Gran Paradiso National Park is a protected area in the Graian Alps of Aosta Valley, covering alpine meadows, mountain forests, and glacial zones. The landscape ranges from fir woods at lower levels to rock faces and snowfields near the summits.
History
Vittorio Emanuele II established a royal hunting reserve here in the mid-19th century to save the ibex from extinction. After World War I, the House of Savoy transferred the land to the Italian state, which declared it the country's first national park.
Culture
The name comes from the icy summit that dominates the valleys and has served as a landmark for local herders for centuries. Stone walls and old shepherd paths along the slopes recall the time when these mountains were used for grazing and seasonal migration.
Practical
Trails are mostly snow-free in summer and lead through open high valleys where ibexes and chamois often graze within view. Sturdy footwear and warm clothing are advisable, as mountain weather can shift rapidly.
Did you know?
Ibexes often approach trails within a few meters in early summer to feed on fresh grasses and herbs in the alpine meadows. Some animals wear collars with transmitters that help researchers track their movements and behavior across the range.
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Gran Paradiso
3.7 km
Monte Emilius
20.5 km
Grivola
11.2 km
Sanctuary of San Besso
18.1 km
Lago Agnel
13.8 km
Santuario di Prascondù
15.9 km
Mont Avic
27.2 km
Ghiacciaio della Tribolazione
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Il Roc
3.4 km
Grande Aiguille Rousse
17.5 km
Lac Pellaud
16.7 km
Punta Tersiva
18.4 km
Sources de l'Isère Glacier
17.6 km
Ciarforon
5 km
Mont Tout Blanc
12.8 km
Rosa dei Banchi
19.2 km
Becca di Monciair
6.1 km
Punta Rossa della Grivola
10.2 km
Santa Croce
21 km
Royal castle of Cogne
12.5 km
Tresenta
3.6 km
La Cialma
12.2 km
Ciardoney Glacier
6.5 km
Mont Glacier
22.9 km
Torre del Gran San Pietro
4.5 km
Grande Rousse
18.8 km
Monte Colombo (Graian Alps)
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Punte Patrì
5.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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