GRAN PARADISO
TRIP NOTES
What to Expect
Spanning over 700 square kilometers, the Gran Paradiso National Park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush valleys to towering peaks, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine alpine meadows, dense forests, and sparkling glacial lakes. The air is crisp and refreshing, carrying the scent of wildflowers and pine trees. Majestic waterfalls cascade down rocky slopes, providing a soothing soundtrack to your journey.
The park is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures as you traverse the trails. The vistas are simply awe-inspiring, with snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon and panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see.
The trail itself is well-marked (mostly). There are rugged sections and generally traverses the park at a much higher average altitude than say the Tour du Mont Blanc. As such you will be well above the tree line for most of your journey, closer to the glaciers and the summits, including the Gran Paradiso itself.
Travel Documents and Requirements
Visa
Australian citizens visiting Schengen countries (of which France, Italy and Switzerland are a part of) do not need to apply for visas if staying for not more than 90 out of 180 days.
For any other nationalities please click here to be referred to the Schengen Visa Info Website.
ETIAS
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System.
ETIAS will pre-screen travellers from “third countries”, who are citizens from countries not needing a Schengen Visa.
ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver, similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canadian eTA. Travelers currently visiting European Member countries visa-free will require an ETIAS from 2025 onwards. Passport holders of the EU single market are exempt from ETIAS.
Please click here for further information on ETIAS Requirements for Australian Citizens.
Please click here for further information on ETIAS Requirements for American Citizens.
Schengen Entry Requirements
You will have to present several documents at the Schengen port of entry, to be permitted to enter if you are a non-EU/Schengen country national, regardless if you are a visa-exempt or not.
The documents you need to provide when entering the Schengen Area are as follows:
- Valid Passport: Issued within the previous 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU.
- Schengen Visa: If you are a national of one of the countries in need of a visa.
- Covid 19: There are currently no COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions on entering the Schengen Zone or Switzerland.
We do however advise all of our guests to monitor and seek the official travel advisories of their government. - Please click here for latest news and to help identify the EU requirements according to your travel plans. Further, you can find the latest information on travel regulations for EU countries on the IATA website.
- EU/Schengen border officials may also ask for other information and documents such as sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, how long you intend to stay, round-trip airline ticket, the purpose of your entry, travel insurance, invitation letter, etc.
Please ensure the border officer gives you an entry stamp in your passport when you enter the Schengen area. Without a stamp, you could be fined or detained.
Please always seek up-to-date advise before your departure as entry conditions can rapidly change.
For further information please check out Schengen Visa Information, Schengen Visa News.
NRE Regulations
No Roads Expeditions is monitoring and following the guidelines of the Australian health authorities.
No Roads is not responsible for any in-country regulations of the country of your destination.
The Tour Du Mont Blanc is crossing through 3 countries, France, Italy, and Switzerland and our guides and trekkers are obliged to follow the regulations of these countries accordingly.
What are the rules to enter France, Italy, and Switzerland from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
COVID-19 travel restrictions and domestic pandemic measures have been widely lifted in Europe.
Please click here for more information about the Schengen entry requirements.
Please click here for the latest news on the official Schengen Visa Information site including Covid 19 regulations.
Further, you can find the latest information on the IATA website.
For our Australian guests, we suggest seeking more information on Smartraveller and WHO.
Departure
Please check with your airline and your returning home country or next/ final destination regarding COVID-19 and other entry requirements.
Further, you can find the latest information on travel regulations on the IATA website.
Insurance
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions.
Once you have booked an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment and other associated costs. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons.
For our Australian guests, we are offering policies from NIB Travel for adequate cover, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.
For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
Get a Quote
While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.
We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do List’ as soon as possible. We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance!
Already have a trusted insurance provider?
No problem at all! Our primary concern is that you have adequate cover.
Got a Pre-Existing Condition?
Simply notify us accordingly. After our team initiated your personal quote, simply call the NIB Insurance Team and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, no additional premium will apply. Many common conditions are automatically covered.
Please note: Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Italy which may cover some of your medical costs in the Italian public health system. Click here for more information.
For all other nationalities please explore insurance providers in your country.
Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.
Accommodation
No Roads personally sources accommodation for our expeditions. Our aim is to provide a welcoming and comfortable home away from home.
In Torino, Aosta, and Cogne we will reside in one of our preferred hotels in twin/double shared rooms with en-suite facilities.
Throughout the trek, we use small family-run hotels and a couple of Rifugios. The hotels are quaint with very personal touches throughout. Often they will have a small waiting area where you can lounge and rest.
Please be aware that room sizes in hotels and their facilities will vary from one place to the next and sometimes from room to room within one hotel.
Single Supplements are limited along the Gran Paradiso and do not apply to the Rifugios. Please contact our team directly for further information.
Getting There And Away
Expedition Extensions
The No Roads Team is dedicated to ensuring your pre and on-trip experience is as enjoyable as possible. For those that have some extra time on their hands, we offer some interesting Expedition Extensions. These crafted itineraries will give you a more complete picture of your destination and give you an appreciation of the local cultural and natural history. Please contact us at info@noroads.com.au for more information.
Port of Arrival
Aosta is the start of the Expedition. You will need to be in Aosta, latest, on the first day of the trip. Accommodation in Aosta is part of the trip at the start. When we get to Torino on the last day, accommodation that night is also included. We can of course organise extra nights in Torino if you wish to stay a little longer.
Transfers
No Roads provides all transfers throughout the trek. We also include the transfer from Noasca to Torino at the end of the trip.
There will be a pre-trek meeting scheduled on your arrival day in Aosta, usually around 6pm. Rooms are ready for check-in after 2 pm.
Note: Please advise our team accordingly if your arrival time might be before 2 pm or after 7 pm and we will provide you with adequate instructions.
Luggage storage facilities are available at your accommodation in case your arrival might be before the room check-in time.
Destination Aosta
Strolling through the streets of Aosta, you may be struck by the sheer weight of history that cloaks this city. Here, in the heart of the Italian Alps, the past isn’t just remembered; it’s palpable. Roman ruins stand as stoic sentinels of antiquity, while the surrounding mountains whisper ancient secrets. It’s a place where every cobblestone, every weathered wall, tells a story.
Make your way to a local trattoria, a place that’s seen generations come and go, yet remains unchanged. The food here is simple, unpretentious, and profoundly delicious. Savor a forkful of “carbonada,” marvelling at how something as humble as beef and wine can be transformed into a dish that feels like a warm embrace. The Fontina cheese, a product of these very mountains, tastes like it contains the essence of the place itself—rich, complex, and unforgettable.
Later, wander the ruins of the Roman Theatre, imagining the spectacles that once enthralled audiences under the very same sky. There’s a timelessness to Aosta, a sense that despite the centuries, some things remain constant. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the enduring allure of discovery— you will experience it all, one bite, one step, one story at a time.
Destination Torino
If you wish to stay in Torino for a little longer after the trek, there is much to explore in this vibrant and historically rich city. You could begin your journey by visiting the iconic Mole Antonelliana, home to the National Cinema Museum, offering stunning city views. Explore the grandeur of the Royal Palace and its extensive gardens, and immerse yourself in art at the renowned Egyptian Museum. Don’t miss the unique experience of the Shroud of Turin at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Indulge in the city’s culinary delights, such as the famous chocolate and bicerin, and explore the charming streets of the Quadrilatero Romano. Finally, catch a match at the Juventus Stadium if you’re a football enthusiast. Turin is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and gastronomy, offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Weather on the Gran Paradiso
One of the multiple advantages of joining a guided expedition is that your guide will provide you with a daily weather update.
Mountain weather is very volatile and you may experience several conditions on the same day, so it’s essential you adequately prepare yourself with clothing for different weather conditions.
Basically, conditions in June and September are a bit cooler and it is more likely to encounter a bit of remaining snow on the high passes mid to end of June. In July and August days in the valleys are warm with temperatures ranging between 20-30 degrees Celsius. Nights can be cooler with temperatures around 10 degrees. Temperatures in the mountains are normally cooler as well and the weather can be labile. Even in August some snow after a storm in the higher parts is not unusual.
Gran Paradiso National Park
History
The history of the Gran Paradiso National Park is intertwined with the preservation of nature and the establishment of protected areas in Italy. The park is located in the Graian Alps, straddling the regions of Aosta Valley and Piedmont, and holds a rich historical significance.
In the late 19th century, the area faced threats from uncontrolled hunting, leading to the decline of local fauna, particularly the Alpine ibex. However, the park owes its origins to King Vittorio Emanuele II of Italy, who was an avid hunter and became deeply concerned about the diminishing ibex population. In 1856, he declared the royal hunting reserve of Gran Paradiso, spanning an initial area of approximately 21,000 hectares.
The king and his son, Umberto I, implemented conservation measures to protect the ibex, including banning hunting and restricting access to the reserve. This early initiative marked the first step toward preserving the area’s natural heritage. In 1920, the park was expanded to encompass a larger territory, and its name was changed to Gran Paradiso National Park.
Over the years, the park’s focus shifted from solely preserving wildlife to encompassing the protection of the entire ecosystem. Efforts were made to safeguard the unique flora, fauna, and landscapes found within the park’s boundaries. In 1947, the park was officially recognized as a national park, making it Italy’s first national park.
Since its establishment, Gran Paradiso National Park has continued to grow in size and importance. Today, it covers over 700 square kilometers and is a crucial sanctuary for numerous animal species, including ibex, chamois, eagles, and bearded vultures. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from forests to glaciers, support a rich variety of plant life as well.
The park’s historical significance as an early conservation effort and its ongoing dedication to preserving the natural heritage of the region make Gran Paradiso National Park a testament to the importance of environmental protection and sustainable tourism. It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to safeguard the planet’s biodiversity and ensure its preservation for future generations.
Packing for Trekking
Equipment
Trekking Gear
Generally speaking, you should pack as lightly as possible and we recommend keeping the weight under 15kg. Due to the limited capacity of luggage transfer vehicles, it is best to only bring essential items on the trip.
During the trip, your main luggage will be transferred for you to your next destination each day and you are only required to carry a daypack.
Suitcases are NOT recommended for this trip. The luggage or bag must be flexible, contain no sensitive or valuable material or any food product, and must not exceed a maximum weight of 15 kg. Most travelers carry their luggage in a backpack or a sports-type/carry-all bag with a shoulder strap.
When out walking, you will also need a good day pack to carry a jacket and personal items such as a camera, sunscreen, water, snacks, blister kit, etc.
Travel Documents
Travel Insurance
Air ticket
Credit card
Spending money in Euro and Swiss Franc
Personal First Aid kit
Your personal First Aid kit will contain Band-aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandages, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles), Anti-chafing cream, Pawpaw cream, Foot powder if needed, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
We also recommend sharing a First Aid Kit if you are traveling in a group.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to, ear infections or sinus problems, bring what you need with you.
Personal Items
- Comfortable daypack with a rain cover
- Waterproof bags for gear moisture protection in day pack while walking (garbage bags are fine)
- Water bottles or Camelbak system ( 2-3 liters recommended. Water is accessible from fountains and hotels along the way.
- Blister kit (see blister management), rehydration salts, and any personal medication you use
- Alarm clock and LED head torch/flashlight
- Sunscreen, hat, and high UV sunglasses with retaining cord
Clothing
- Well-worn in boots with ankle support, no sneakers on the trek – You are trekking in alpine terrain and will require shoes with a good grip, especially in wet conditions.
- 3 pairs of walking socks
- 3 T-shirts (lightweight quick-drying tech fabric) or long-sleeved Trekking shirts
- 2 pairs of shorts and at least one lightweight pair of pants (for walking in – avoid wearing Jeans!)
- Sleeping gear (lightweight and thermals)
- Warm fleece, sweater, hat, and gloves (cold mornings)
- Waterproof jacket & over-trousers
- Sun hat
Optional
- Walking poles (good for balance & taking the weight off your knees on descents)
Other Suggestions
- Silk sleeping liner (optional) – good for extra comfort with a blanket
- Trekking scarf (buff)
- Gloves
- Bathers
- Camera
- Spare batteries for camera
- Reading & writing material
- Pair of flip-flops/trainers for anything
- Knee brace or strapping tape – not essential but useful for injury
- Hand sanitiser
- Miniatures of your usual toiletries
- Snacks – though these can be purchased locally
- Book
- Swiss army knife or similar
- Mobile & charger
Recommended equipment for walking on snowfields (more likely in June/ September)
- Walking boots – Boots are higher than shoes and will help protect you from snow wetting your socks while crossing snowfields.
- Trekking Poles
- Short Gaiters – optional for snowy conditions on passes
- Sunglasses
A Note On Your Boots
The Gran Paradiso is an alpine trek and its conditions vary from well-defined treks to gravel to rocky terrain. Unless you are a very experienced trekker or trail runner we highly recommend wearing walking boots with ankle support on the trek to prevent you from any injuries.
A Note On Your Daypack
Being in high mountains you should prepare for all eventualities with the weather. High altitudes will always be cool and if clouds set in it can be cold & damp. Expect 20-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and at night temperature can fall below 10 degrees Celsius, so mornings can be cold. Better be prepared than sorry. Dress like an onion and take off/put on layers as required and store your gear in your day pack when not needed.
Personal Day Gear
- A comfortable day pack with a rain cover
- Water bottle or Camelbak
- Well-worn in trekking boots with ankle support
- Preferred trekking cloth – shirt, pants, socks, trekking scarf (buff), sun protection hat with cord, sunglasses with retaining cord
- Walking poles
- Trekking gloves for blister protection if you use walking poles
Recommended Contents of your Day Pack
- Blister kit (see blister management in pre-departure information tab), rehydration salts (Hydrolite), and any personal medication you use
- Rain gear (jacket and pants) according to the weather forecast
- Preferred snacks, fruit, and nuts, muesli bars, lollies, chocolate
- Fleece or Vest for extra warmth
- Beanie
- Camera (optional)
- Personal spending money
Note: If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please do not hesitate to contact us. We can provide you with additional information at any time.
Supplied Equipment
- Crampons (might be required for the early or late trips in the season)
- Luggage Transfer
- Additional First Aid Kit
Blister Management
Walking for extended hours for multiple days may affect your feet. We have put together some helpful advice on how to care for your feet along the trek.
Money
Currency Exchange
Euros are needed in Italy. Take some in cash to avoid having to change money at the beginning of the trip.
ATM Availability
There are a large number of ATM cash points that accept Visa and Mastercard in Torino and Aosta.
Credit Card Acceptance
In major restaurants and shops.
Spending
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Most of your meals are included but you will have to pay for the odd meal, any snacks & drinks en route, or evening drinks. Allow 30 Euro per day. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Any tip that you wish to give your local guides or leader in recognition of excellent service is always appreciated.
Guided Tour
Our Local Guide Team
To ensure an authentic experience No Roads is working with a group of local guides on the Gran Paradiso. With their knowledge of the area, they help us discover the natural and historical heritage and their personal stories let us immerse ourselves in the local culture and with people along the trek.
While you need to ensure to get into adequate physical shape for the trek, your qualified guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains while you enjoy an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
Your guide will enhance your trip by pointing out those things you might have overlooked, naming the flowers you are admiring, talking about local cultural diversities, and spotting local wildlife along the way.
Gran Paradiso FAQ'S
Gran Paradiso – What is so special?
The Gran Paradiso traverses the Gran Paradiso National Park, once the private domain of the last King of Italy. As such, trails in the park normally have a low gradient so that the King’s entourage could easily transport his private collection or art, food, and alcohol from one hunting lodge to the next. Some of the Rifugio used in the park were once the King’s lodges.
Aside from the history of the park, the sheer beauty and sense of remoteness set it apart from many other parts of Western Europe. Some days you may not see another trekker.
We traverse the park from the beautiful Roman town of Aosta, across high passes above 3000 meters to the base of the Gran Paradiso summit itself and then into Piedmont, with its beautiful lakes and waterfalls.
The Gran Paradiso trek is the next level up from the Tour du Mont Blanc as far as hiking difficulty, but you are rewarded with incredible food and wonderful Italian hospitality.
When is the best time to walk the TMB?
There are a few factors in play that will determine when to go. The first is the weather. Usually, high passes can be snowed under even into mid to late June and the snow can return mid to late September. Meadows are filled with blooming flowers in June and July, while by September the days are getting shorter but the air is a little cooler.
How hard is the Gran Paradiso?
Hiking the Gran Paradiso is a great way to experience the Italian Alps. Groups can travel at their pace and leisure taking frequent breaks set in the beautiful landscape along the way. However, with its daily elevation gain and loss, it is no walk in the park and one should physically prepare for it. You’ll hike for at least 5-6 hours per day carrying a light day pack.
What do I have to carry?
Included in your trip is a daily Luggage Transfer.
How do I train for the Gran Paradiso?
To prepare safely and effectively you will need to train specifically for this trek in the European Alps for a period of at least five to six months. We suggest that during your training you should undertake frequent training walks, which you will need to progressively increase in hiking time, distance, and elevation gain.
During your walks, you need to familiarise yourself with walking with a day pack (weight of 5-7 kilos) and your walking poles.
We will share a basic training regime as part of our welcome pack to help build your trekking-specific conditioning.
You do not need to be Superman to complete the expedition but the fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find it.
Altitude and Distance
At only around 80 km of walking, at first glance the Gran Paradiso seems like a leisurely hike. But with over 12000 meters in ascent and descent, the trek is quite difficult. The Gran Paradiso trail takes us high into the mountains with several passes over 3000 meters including Col du Loson at 3299m.
What’s it like underfoot?
Underfoot you will experience a variety of tracks and trails in the Gran Paradiso National Park. Typically the mountainous sections of the park run on single-track paths that can be rocky in places, sometimes with steps but mostly just the bare earth. Mud is not a problem in the same way as on Mountain paths in Victoria, for example! Tracks are also common – perhaps gravel forest roads, ski pistes, or rough tracks for vehicles over agricultural land.
Tip: Walking Poles are a good option for this trip and do not only provide you with extra stability but also ensure even blood circulation in your arms.
Why choose a guided tour?
Walking with a Guide provides security and the possibility to discover the natural and historical heritage of the area you visit. A professional guide will provide you with weather updates and trek conditions daily. His great knowledge of the area gives him/her the ability to adapt the route according to weather conditions and group strength.
While you need to ensure to get into an adequate physical shape for the trek your guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains while you enjoy an unforgettable experience.
What is the accommodation like?
We are using a mix of luxury boutique-style hotels, boutique family-run hotels, and Rifugios on this trek. We need to use Rifugios so that we can remain high in the mountains, and so we can traverse from one valley to the next.
You will have included in the trip 1 night in Torino in a boutique hotel in the center of town. The small hotels used on the trek are locally owned and run. They are very comfortable with a great warm feel and often serve excellent homemade meals.
COVID 19 – What are the procedures along the trek?
A new world requires new ways to look after our guests and that is why we have developed even better safety protocols for all guests and team members. No Roads is constantly monitoring the situation and is following the advice of government bodies in regard to the changing circumstances in the affected countries. We are also in constant contact with our local partners and teams abroad in order to monitor and comply with the implemented safety measures and restrictions. More detailed information outlining the safety protocol for your trip will be sent along with the joining information before your departure.
We know things will return to “normal” in time, but we will never become complacent with your safety.
Expedition Grading
High Heart Rate Holiday
The Gran Paradiso is considered on our own expedition scale as a High Heart Rate Holiday. Whether you are pushing up a mountain or doing other physical activities, this holiday is primarily focused on challenging yourself physically. There are sections that will certainly get your heart rate going and other sections that are quite easy. Balance this with well-maintained trails, excellent accommodation and food as well as luggage transfers and this trek fits perfectly into an active holiday category. You need to be of average to high fitness for this expedition or willing to commit to training to take part. Call us if you are unsure of your fitness level and we talk you through what you need to do to be ready.
Fitness
Hiking the Gran Paradiso is a great way to experience the Italian Alps. Groups can travel at their pace and leisure taking frequent breaks set in the beautiful landscape along the way. However, with its daily elevation gain and loss, it is no walk in the park and one should physically prepare for it. The Gran Paradiso is considered a High Heart Rate Holiday.
If you are planning on hiking the Gran Paradiso, you must make special efforts to get in good physical condition for the trip. The fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find this expedition.
Every participant should have a health check with a medical physician to ensure that they are in good physical health prior to embarking on their trip. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek. As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).
To prepare safely and effectively for this trek in the European Alps you specifically need to train for a period of at least five to six months. We suggest that during your training you should undertake frequent training walks, which you will need to progressively increase in hiking time, distance, and elevation gain.
During your walks, you need to familiarise yourself with walking with a day pack (weight of 5-7 kilos) and your walking poles.
We will share a basic training regime and training walk suggestions in Australia as part of our welcome pack to help build your trekking-specific condition.
Health And Safety
All No Roads Expeditions trekkers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/ or the rest of the group, No Roads Expeditions reserves the right to exclude them from all, or part of a trip without refund.
Although there are no specific health requirements for this trip please be aware you need to be in good health to undertake this trip due to the sometimes demanding conditions that exist in these areas. You should consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions to assess your suitability before departure.
Your leader will have a first aid kit for emergencies we recommend that you carry First Aid supplies for common ailments as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities for some time during this trip, and for legal reasons, our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc.
We will do everything we can to support guests that have disclosed a medical condition, allergy, or anaphylaxis, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests in this situation to assist us by reconfirming this information in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable adventure experience
General Travel Advice
All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and wellbeing an absolute priority and always follow the travel advice and guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Smartraveller. To further maintain the safety of our travellers, we promote good personal and hand hygiene along with adherence to safe food preparation practices.
Dietary Requirements
We are able to cater to all common special dietary requirements on this trip. The villages along the Gran Paradiso are well known for their excellent and typical cuisine. Each valley provides a different and delicious cuisine. These regional diets include choices of pasta, potatoes, cheeses, cured meats, salads, and fruits. Due to this heavy gluten, cheese, and meat-based diet, the meal choices for special requirements might be limited depending on your requirements.
Please advise us prior to your departure if you have any food allergies we should be aware of.
Note: The No Roads team will do everything it can to support any allergies which might require a special diet, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made for all meals. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests to assist us by providing this information while traveling, in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you do have an uncommon dietary requirement please contact our office directly.
COVID 19
Unfortunately, COVID is the “New Normal” and we all have to follow certain guidelines to ensure the safety of ourselves, our fellow guests, our team, and the local communities.
Immunization
COVID 19
Depending on your country of origin and port of arrival in Europe requirements are ranging from proof of vaccination, certificate of recovery, and/or proof of a negative PCR.
Please click here to identify the country-specific requirements according to your travel plans.
You may also find further helpful information in response to Coronavirus here.
No further vaccinations are compulsory for entry to the Schengen Zone. However, you should consider MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) and a combination vaccine TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis). We recommend that you ensure your tetanus cover is up to date. Depending on the season and the area of travel you might also consider a flu vaccination and other area-specific recommended vaccinations.
Please consult your doctor on these matters.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) Vaccine– Over the last decade, measles outbreaks have become more common in Europe. Protect yourself with this simple immunization.
TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) Vaccine– Due in part to immigration patterns, some diseases like diphtheria have resurfaced in Europe.
Flu Vaccine– Europe has been hit quite hard by the flu in recent years. If you plan on traveling during a high flu time (September to April) be sure to have the vaccine before you go.
Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together.
Sustainable Travel
Philosophy
We believe strongly in low impact or rather a positive impact from tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please see our online policy for more details on our social and environmental approach and commitment.
THE ENVIRONMENT
Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:
- Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers in the countryside along the way. These may be put in your backpack and disposed of at your local hotel at the end of the day.
- Follow the well-marked walking tracks and avoid walking through grassland and regrowth areas.
- Do not touch or feed any wildlife spotted on the way as you might cause severe harm to the animal.
By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for their children’s children.
The Local Community
Our philosophy and aim are to pay back to the local communities.
No Roads dedicated to supporting local environmental projects in the places we visit. A $20.00 donation from each expedition booking is going towards a local charity project. For more information please visit our charity tab on the top of each expedition page.
We Are Here To Help!
We have tried hard to provide you with a greater insight into this expedition but we ain’t perfect!
If you do have further questions please contact our expert team members through one of the below channels.
No Roads Expeditions Support Hub
Australia HQ: +61 (03) 95988581
Email: info@noroads.com.au
