Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso

The park

Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso is Italy’s oldest national park, established in 1922 to protect the Alpine wilderness and its iconic wildlife.

Spanning over 71,000 hectares across the Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions, the park is a breathtaking sanctuary of rugged peaks, lush valleys, and pristine glaciers.

Home to the Gran Paradiso mountain (4,061m), the park is a paradise for nature lovers, offering diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine meadows to dense forests

Wildlife

The park is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, many of which were once endangered and have found refuge in this protected area:

🦌 Alpine Ibex (Capra ibex) – The symbol of the park, this majestic wild goat with curved horns was nearly extinct but thrives here thanks to conservation efforts.

🐐 Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) – Agile and fast, these mountain antelopes are often seen leaping across rocky slopes.

🦅 Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) – One of Europe’s most powerful raptors, soaring high above the peaks in search of prey.

🦅 Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) – Also called the “bone-breaker,” this rare and striking vulture feeds primarily on bones, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.

🦦 Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) – Found along rivers and streams, though elusive and shy.

🐺 Italian Wolf (Canis lupus italicus) – A top predator in the park, though rarely seen by visitors.

🦊 Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) – A highly adaptable mammal, often spotted near wooded areas.

🐿️ Marmot (Marmota marmota) – These social, burrowing rodents are known for their loud whistles, warning of approaching danger.

🦉 Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo) – One of the world’s largest owls, hunting at dusk and night.

With over 500 km of hiking trails, the park offers a chance to experience Italy’s wild heart, encounter its incredible fauna, and immerse in the tranquility of the Alps.