WELCOME TO THE START OF YOUR
GRAN PARADISO JOURNEY
You are embarking on an adventure in a place and among people whose lives might vary from your own. Aspects of life in Europe and in the villages in the Italian Alps might seem unusual. Remember that these are often the same aspects that make an area an exotic and attractive destination.
The Gran Paradiso traverse can be a challenging journey. We of course try to make your journey as comfortable as possible with excellent food, great Guides and the best accommodation available along the trail. In addition to the personal physical challenges you may face, travel conditions can present unexpected obstacles, such as rough and bumpy roads and changeable weather conditions, especially in the mountains.
To prepare for this, “pack” a flexible and relaxed attitude. Bring a spirit of adventure and inquiry, a healthy sense of humour, and a willingness to encounter the unexpected, and you will find Walking the Gran Paradiso an incredible adventure!
The summit of the Gran Paradiso stands at 4061 meters and is the only 4000 meter peak solely in Italy.
Gran Paradiso National Park, located in the heart of the Graian Alps in northern Italy, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. This magnificent protected area, spanning over 70,000 hectares, is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its remarkable conservation efforts.
The history of Gran Paradiso National Park can be traced back to the early 19th century when hunting was a popular activity among the European aristocracy. In those times, the mountainous region was frequented by hunters who sought to pursue ibex, chamois, and other game animals. One notable figure in this history is King Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of a united Italy, who had a keen interest in hunting.
In the late 19th century, the ibex population faced a significant decline due to unregulated hunting and habitat destruction. Recognizing the need for conservation, King Vittorio Emanuele II established the Royal Hunting Reserve of Gran Paradiso in 1856. This reserve covered an area of approximately 21,000 hectares and was specifically designated for the protection of ibex.
Under the management of the royal family, the reserve gradually expanded, incorporating neighboring territories and increasing the area under protection. With the passing of time, the focus of the reserve shifted from hunting to conservation, and it became a symbol of Italy’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage.
In 1920, the area was transformed into the Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy’s first national park. The park was established to safeguard not only the ibex population but also the unique alpine ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna found in the region. The boundaries of the park were extended, encompassing high-altitude peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and dense forests.
During the mid-20th century, Gran Paradiso National Park underwent significant development and conservation initiatives. Efforts were made to protect endangered species, promote scientific research, and raise public awareness about the importance of preserving the park’s natural treasures.
In 1979, the park received international recognition when it was included in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program, acknowledging its exceptional ecological value. This designation further highlighted the significance of Gran Paradiso as a sanctuary for biodiversity.
The king set up a corps of specialized guards and ordered the paths and mule-tracks to be laid down, which today are still the best network path system for the protection of the fauna by the modern rangers and form the nucleus of the nature trails for tourist excursions.
Your Journey
Day 1: Overnight in Aosta. (L)
Day 2: Start trek Aosta to Cogne. Overnight in Cogne. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Cogne to Alps Money then back to Cogne. Overnight in Cogne (B,L,D)
Day 4: Cogne to Refugio Sella. Overnight in Refugio Sella. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Refugio Sella to Eaux Rousses. Overnight in Eaux Rousses. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Eaux Rousses to Rifugio Federico Chabod. Overnight in Rifugio Federico Chabod. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Rifugio Federico Chabod to Pont via Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele. Overnight in Pont. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Pont to Ceresole Reale. Overnight in Ceresole Reale. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Ceresole Reale to Torino. (B,L)
Day 10: Torino to Next Destination. (B)
Guest Portal
You can update all your personal information directly in our Guest’s Portal. There, you can add your Insurance, Flight Details, and anything else we need for the trip. When you first click on the link you will be asked to reset your password. Please use the same email address you used for your booking.
Male Ibex can grow to 170 cm tall (that's the tip of their horns) and weigh up to 120 kilograms. Male horns have been known to grow a full 5 feet.
A Day On The Trail
With an Italian breakfast of delicious coffee, pastries, and fruit and yogurt tucked away securely in our bellies we head out onto the trails of the Gran Paradiso.
We are first struck by the sheer size of the mountains and the narrowness of the valleys, exaggerating the towering height of the snow-capped summits and the enormous glaciers that spill from them. The trail is well defined; as it should be; once the abode of an Italian King, this sanctuary is now considered one of Europe’s “wild” places where rumor has it that wolves have once again returned to the forests and ridges of this epic landscape.
The trail inevitably climbs higher, affording us greater views, the price of admission to this show is a heightened heart rate, a few beads of sweat, and a desire to keep going. Leading up toward Col du Loson, one feels like I have entered Dante’s inferno. Clouds whirl across ridgelines, the rocks have turned black and the trail steepens. What is this place?
And as I reach the pass, the clouds part and I see down into the next valley, awash with sunlight, green meadows spill down into a valley below. And there in the distance, a mere speck on the horizon is our beautiful room for the night.
We head down and find a small patch of grass near a crystal-clear brook for lunch. The sun bathes us in warmth and all our cares dissipate.
Before we know we are off. Our guide points to a rocky outcrop, and there standing atop is an ibex. It truly is a wonderful and majestic sight to behold.
By late afternoon we have made it to our hotel, washed and ready for a delicious meal. But first is it a spritz or a beer? Does it really matter?
Ah the Gran Paradiso, fit for a King, just like me!
Getting There and Away
Now this is important: Turin is the birthplace of solid chocolate, it can be traced back to 1560. THANK YOU TURIN!
Transfers
We will be providing on this trip from Aosta. Once you complete the trek we will transfer you from Ceresole Reale to Torino.
Weather
Torino and Aosta
Torino’s and Aosta’s climate is more continental orientated than the Mediterranean. In summer the temperature rises to averages of around 30C.
In The Mountains
The trails through the Gran Paradiso expereince much lower temperatures than Aosta and Torino, due to their altitude and geography. Day temperatures can start off below zero and go as high as 30C.
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.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
The Gran Paradiso National Park is home to 168 species of fauna, 1,124 species of flora, 59 glaciers and 183 lakes.
Our team will do everything it can to support you and to ensure you are adequately prepared for your entry into Europe. However, in this fast-moving environment, we do suggest and encourage all guests to monitor relevant travel- and entry documentation-related information for your trip on equivalent official websites as part of your preparation process.
Further information will be provided in your trip-specific joining instructions closer to your departure date.
Visa
Australian citizens visiting Schengen countries (which Italy is 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.
Please click here for further information on Italian Visa Requirements.
ETIAS
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System.
ETIAS will pre-screen travellers from “third countries”, who are citizens from countries not in need of 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, in order 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 third countries in need of a visa.
- Covid 19: There are currently no COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions on entering the Schengen Zone.
We however advise all of our guests to monitor and seek the official travel advisories of their government. - Please click here to 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.
Our guides and trekkers are obliged to follow the in-country health regulations of Itlay.
What are the rules to enter Italy from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?
COVID-19 travel restrictions and domestic pandemic measures have been widely lifted in Europe and Italy.
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 Covide 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 Lis”t 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.
Things to Remember with Insurance
A Credit Card/Travel Card that can be used internationally. Often, any medical centre or hospital will require payment sooner than some insurance companies will have approved payment (meaning you need to be able to pay them, then seek reimbursement from your insurer).
The international emergency contact number for your insurance company. We will initiate emergency procedures for you, however, it is a far easier process for you to coordinate matters with the insurance company directly (most things we are unable to finalise on your behalf).
Documents to keep on your person, or obtain in event of emergency:
A copy of your flight itinerary with information including – Ticket Number, Airline Reference Number (PNR), Agency Flight Reference Number (if purchased via a travel agency/3rd party as well as contact information for them)
A copy of a Medical report (if you required treatment) and keep copies of all receipts for anything that you have been required to pay.
Remember t
o travel with a copy of your policy or at least your policy number and provider
Accommodation
The Gran Paradiso National Park is divided into 5 valleys: Valle Soana, Valle Orco, Valle di Cogne, Valle di Rhêmes, and Valsavarenche.
We personally source all our accommodation on the Gran Paradiso. For this journey we have a mix of three different styles of accommodation, each is condsidered the best available in the area.
Luxury Hotels in Torino, Aosta and Cogne
Just because you’re doing a tough trek doesn’t mean you have to rough it at night, where you sleep. On the contrary, for the first few nights on this journey, before we get deep into the park, we will be using very luxurious and fine hotels in Torino, Aosta, and Cogne.
In Torino, we use the beautiful and centrally located Grand Hotel Sitea. This classic hotel exudes history and style and a collection of Tortoise in the outdoor breakfast area.
In Aosta, we use the very comfortable Hotel Duca D’Aosta and in Cogne we use the Hotel du Grand Paradis which was first built in 1899 (Bella).
Please note: 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 available for this trip. Please contact our team directly for further information.
Local Boutique Hotels
In the various valleys we will cross into on the Gran Paradiso, we will be staying in small family-run boutique hotels. These are quaint and simple places usually with ensuites. But it is the food that makes these places stand out, showcasing the local cuisine that has been handed down from one generation to the next. These are warm and cozy affairs and we just love them.
Rifugio
To stay high up in the mountains, we must use Rifugio (or mountain lodges) for a couple of nights on our journey. These places are warm and welcoming with great mountain food. They accommodate people from all over the world, and the bustling main dining areas are usually a pot pori of languages and cultures.
Sleeping arrangements are usually dorm-style however we do endeavor to get more private rooms of 6 to 8 beds in each. All pillows and blankets are provided for, however, we do need to bring a sleeping sack, either cotton or silk. Our main luggage will be transferred to the next hotel, so all we have to do is pack enough gear for an overnight stay in a Rifugio.
Cogne, at 1700 meters, is one of the world's premier ice waterfall climbing destinations, with over 150 waterfalls to choose from, with relatively easy access.
Equipment
Trekking Gear
As we will be moving from one village to another each day, with our luggage being transferred for us, it is best to pack our gear into a soft duffle bag. Suitcases are not recommended for this journey.
Travel Documents
Personal Vaccination Documentation
Travel Insurance
Air ticket
Credit card
Spending money in Euro
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.
- 4 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
- Lightweight puffer or down jacket
- Bathers
- Sleeping gear (lightweight for the hotel and thermals for Rifugio)
- Warm fleece, sweater, hat, and gloves (cold mornings)
- Waterproof jacket & over-trousers
- Sun hat
- Walking poles (good for balance & taking the weight off your knees on descents).
Other Suggestions
- Silk or cotton sleeping liner – good for extra comfort with blankets and must be used in Rifugios
- Trekking scarf (buff)
- Camera
- Spare batteries for the camera
- Reading & writing material
- Pair of flip-flops/trainers for anything
- A knee brace or strapping tape – not essential but useful for injury
- Hand sanitiser
- Personal toiletries
- Snacks – though these can be purchased locally
- Book
- Swiss army knife or similar
- Mobile & charger
A Note On Your Boots
On the Gran Paradiso, you will encounter alpine trek conditions that 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 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
- Rain cover for your pack
- Blister kit (containing dedicated blister band-aids, moleskin if required)
- 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
The Right Backpack
Your pack is a major part of your equipment and it is important that you carry a pack that is comfortable and suitable for your requirements.
Click here for more information on your day pack.
Supplied Equipment
- 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.
Last-Minute Supplies
There are a few good outdoor stores in Torino and Aosta where you can purchase extras such as walking poles, day packs, etc. We will give you the address on arrival.
Suggested Items while Staying at Rifugio
|
Our Team
Guides
To ensure an authentic experience No Roads is working with dedicated local guides. Their local knowledge helps us to discover and immerse in the natural and historical heritage of the area and their expertise enables us to even take trails that are normally used by more experienced hikers.
While you need to ensure to get into an 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.
Without our dedicated, locally-based team, our efforts to deliver for you the most immersive, enjoyable, challenging, and rewarding experience quite simply, would not be possible.
Tipping
In case you would like to show your appreciation to a particular Guide for a job well done, do so at your own discretion.
You might also consider tipping your Trek Leader in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive, about 60 Euro per person is recommended. Also, remember to mention the good service provided to a member of the tour Operations Management to be used as an example to encourage better staff performance and excellence.
Local Staff: Service is included in Italian restaurants, although it is polite to tip 10% if the service has been very good. Bar staff and cafe’ waiters expect a small tip or loose change.
We've Got You Covered
General Travel Advice
All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and well-being 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 travelers, 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, however, we can not cater to vegans on this trip. The Gran Paradiso has excellent and typical cuisine from the various valleys we will cross into. 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 travelling, 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
There are currently no COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions on entering the Schengen Zone.
We however advise all of our guests to monitor and seek the official travel advisories of their government. No Roads Expeditions is monitoring the guidelines of the Australian health authorities and and is obliged to follow in country regulations.
Physical Preparation
Clinical studies have proven that the amount of time spent in nature, including activities outdoors, has an impact on their mental wellbeing and can even help improve symptoms of depression. Some clinically proven benefits of spending time in nature include the reduction of stress, blood pressure and improving sleep and energy levels.
Fitness
The Gran Paradiso is no walk in the park and one should physically prepare for it. If you have done the Tour du Mont Blanc, we consider the Gran Paradiso to be the next level up in both technical and physical difficulty. You’ll hike for at least 5-6 hours on some of the days carrying a light day pack. Some days descents can be demanding as some of them are in rocky terrain.
If you are planning on joining this trip, 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, 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.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR TREK
If you already have a frequent training regime, have a higher-than-average fitness level, and already have a few hikes under your belt, check out our Self-Guided Training Program.
Being part of the No Roads Family also gives you access to our On-Demand Trekking Preparation Program, exclusively curated by one of our Guides and Personal Trainers to get you in perfect shape for your trip, at a special discounted rate.
Looking for more training options and ideas for your upcoming trek? Click on the link to visit our exclusive training page for recommendations and suggestions.
Expedition Grading
High Heart Rate Holiday
On our own expedition scale, the Gran Paradiso is considered a High Heart Rate Holiday. Whether you are pushing up a mountain or doing other physical activities, this expedition 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 on your heart but challenging for your knees. The sweetness of this trip is a good balance of activity and relaxation. The combination of well-maintained trails, excellent accommodation, delicious food, and only carrying a day pack makes this trek the perfect active holiday.
You need to be of average to high fitness for this expedition or willing to commit to training to take part. Contact us if you are unsure of your fitness level and we talk you through how to get trek fit best.
We've Been We Know
It’s time for a confession.
It took time to get this good at what we do!
This was never through a lack of trying, but the reality is after 14 years in sending guests across the world, we’ve learned a thing or two…
Here are a few more pointers we thought would be useful before you board your flight (or flights) to Italy!
MONEY
Currency for Exchange
Euros are needed in Italy. Take some in cash to avoid having to change money at the beginning of the trip.
The exchange rate as of the time of writing, 20th March 2024, is:
AUD 1.00 = € 0.61
Where to Exchange
Upon your arrival at one of the international airports or in Torino and Aosta.
ATM Availability
There are a large number of ATM cash points that accept Visa and Mastercards in Italy and Torino/Aosta.
Credit Card Acceptance
In major restaurants and shops.
Spending
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Breakfast and dinners are included in your trip. You will have to pay for your lunches, any snacks & drinks en route, or evening drinks. Allow 25-50 Euros per day. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers 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.
Emergency Funds
Please ensure you have access to an additional Euro 200 cash, to
be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (e.g. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route.
This is a rare occurrence but it is well worth being prepared.
COMMUNICATION
On this trek, you might be out of contact for some periods when up in the mountains but when we are in the towns, there will be phone and email access, WIFI is usually provided at your accommodation in Torino and Aosta. Global roaming charges are very expensive and prepaid cards such as Travel Sim are a good idea.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS
Generally three-pin round, 230V in Italy.
OTHER SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES
Part of your trip cost includes a walking tour of Aosta.
YOUR FELLOW TREKKERS
We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well. This takes just a little effort on your part.
WELCOME MEETING & SAFETY BRIEFING
More information and guidelines will be given to you prior to the start of your expedition in Torino. Topics discussed then will include the following subjects.
- Scheduled treks for the week
- Mountain Weather Conditions
- Equipment
- Rifugio Overnight Stays
- Meals, and other conditions while on the expedition (Lunches at local huts, etc).
- Safety procedures.
- Evacuation Procedures.
- Cultural and Environmental Considerations.
- Other relevant information.
Note: You will be provided with a complete trip joining document with relevant contact details of hotels, guides, and more, approximately two weeks prior to the departure of your trip.
Of the 850 km of the trails in the park, 65% are basically former royal hunting roads built for the sovereign.
Sustainable Travel
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 are dedicated to supporting local environmental projects in the places we visit. A $20.00 donation of 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.
Expedition Extensions
The friendly and professional No Roads Team is dedicated to ensuring your pre-and on-trip experience is as enjoyable as possible. We will be here to provide support for all aspects of your expedition!
Having handpicked all of our trips we are happy to dip into our pool of knowledge to help you with any extension bookings, adventurous or relaxing alike. Our local guides might also have some insider tips to share.
Please contact us for more information.
Simply specify your extension preferences and time period. We will then get back to you with some exciting options.
Italiano?
The name "Gran Paradiso" derives from Granta Parei which in the Aosta Valley dialect means the Grand Wall.
A little effort to speak like a local can be a great icebreaker (as you stumble over the few words you remember) and is always appreciated by those whose homeland you are visiting.
SOME USEFUL (AND INTERESTING) words to impress the locals along the trek
English
Good morning
Good Day
Good evening
Good Night
Goodbye
How are you?
I am fine
What is your name?
My name is…
Nice to meet you/ Nice meeting you
See you later
I do not understand
I do not speak Italian
Yes
O.K.
No/ not
Thank you
You’re welcome
Please
Please help me
Excuse me
What time is it?
This
That
Where have you just come from?
What country are you from?
Where are you going?
Be careful / attention
Italiano
Buongiorno
Buona giornata
Buonasera
Buona notte
Addio
Come stai?
Sto bene
Come ti chiami?
Mi chiamo…
Piacere di conoscerti
Arrivederci
Non capisco
Non parlo italiano
Sì
OK
No/ non
Grazie
Prego
Per favore
Mi aiuti per favore
Mi scusi
Che ore sono?
Questa (feminine) , questo (masculine)
Quella (feminine), quello (masculine)
Da dove vieni?
Da che paese vieni?
Dove stai andando?
Stai attento / attenzione
Checklist
Please make sure you have the following items before you travel to the airport for your flight to Italy.
1. Luggage – duffel bag for your personal clothing and equipment
2. Day pack (backpack)
3. Valid passport.
4. Proof of Grant of your Schengen Visa if required.
5. Photocopy of the main page of your passport.
6. Return Airfares and other travel documents.
7. Medical/travel insurance papers/certificates plus 2 copies of your policy.
8. Credit cards, cash dollars (or travellers cheques) for expenses while travelling.
9. Personal First Aid Kit
10. Personal Medication
Give Us A Shout
NO ROADS EXPEDITIONS
Office: (03) 95988581
24 hrs Access:
Irene Miller + 61 430 705 222
Peter Miller + 61 425 726 623
Email: info@noroads.com.au
