Buongiorno ,

Come stai? I hope you're doing well!

1. 🥾August flew by, and I spent most of it in the Aosta Valley, staying in a small village near La Salle at 1,600 meters above sea level. My days were a mix of hiking, working, and relaxing.
2. I tend to travel less during this time of year because everywhere is so crowded. If you can, I highly recommend avoiding travel to Italy from mid-July to the end of August. Prices are high, and everything needs to be booked well in advance.
3. 🏔️ Let me tell you about my adventure on Gran Paradiso (4,061 meters above sea level)—it was an amazing experience! On August 20th, around 10 AM, I stood at the summit of the only 4,000-meter peak located entirely in Italy. It’s one of the most accessible 4,000-meter peaks, so I highly recommend it if you don’t have much mountaineering experience. Just keep in mind that you’ll need an alpine guide.
4. 🔝In August, I also finished the Aosta Valley Guide, which is now available at a special price of 19 euros (down from 54). Use the discount code "GOINGTOVDA" at checkout! Writing it while gazing at Mont Blanc was a joy. As usual, it includes GPX tracks for day and multi-day hikes, local food recommendations, itineraries, and must-see spots.
5. 📖 I’m currently working on the Liguria Guide, and you can vote for the next region you'd like me to cover!
6. 🍅 August also meant tomato season in the garden! I’ve been helping my dad make conserva over a wood fire. This is the base for the tomato sauces we’ll enjoy throughout the year. Making passata is labor-intensive but so rewarding. I love knowing exactly what's in my food and reducing waste.
7. 🚙 Olivia (yes, my car has a name) keeps taking me on the best adventures. I’m thrilled with my Suntop rooftop tent, which allows me to sleep under the stars. It’s spacious yet lightweight—perfect for rooftop camping.
8. 🚶🏻‍♀️Since I'm often asked about solo hiking as a woman, I’m going to start sharing some tips (many apply to men, too!). My top advice: always let a few people know your exact plan, including where you're going, when you're leaving, and when you’ll return.
9. 🫶🏻I usually tell my mum (who worries if I'm not back on time), my tech-savvy friend Giulia (who can track me down if needed), and my brother Emanuele (who often forgets I'm out but can calm my mum down if she gets too worried). Find your three reliable people to check in with if you hike solo.
10. 🍂 What’s coming up in September? It’s one of my favorite months to hike and explore—warm, long days and quieter trails. I’ve planned hikes in Emilia Romagna, Piedmont, and the Aosta Valley. Plus, on September 22nd, my best friend Giorgia is getting married in a castle! If you're curious about Italian wedding traditions, stay tuned—I’ll be sharing some pics in my stories.

Catch you outside,

Elena