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An embrace between mountains and silences: discovering Bose Lake
Starting from the Oropa cable car station, leave the chatter of the camper van area behind and follow the call of the trail. The dirt road winds gently through woods and meadows, leading you towards Alpe di Gè. Along the way, the Paradise Chapel stands like an oasis of peace, a small jewel that seems to tell you stories of faith and mountains. Continuing on, a fork in the road invites you to detour towards Lago delle Bose. Here the climb becomes gentler, almost as if to prepare you for the encounter with a special place. And then there it is, the lake: a tranquil stretch of water, surrounded by meadows and silence, reflecting the sky and the surrounding peaks. Stop for a moment, sit on the shore and listen. It is nature speaking, with its discreet and soothing voice. Resume your walk, following the path that takes you back to Oropa. The path intertwines with the road that descends from Oropa Sport, where the landscape continues to surprise you with views that look like paintings. Shortly before returning to the starting point, you cross a section of the Valdostan Oropa Path, a lure for those who like to let themselves be carried away by the desire to explore. This ring is more than a walk: it is an invitation to slow down, to let yourself be enveloped by the beauty of an area that knows how to welcome you with simplicity and warmth. To live this experience in an even more Slow way, we recommend spending a night at the guest quarters of the Sanctuary of Oropa, and enjoy the magic and silence that the night can bring. For SlowCard holders, the Sanctuary offers a 10% discount on overnight stays! You can find out what the SlowCard is and buy it at this link.
Il Cammino di Oropa Valdostano
Il cammino da Fontainemore, comune più orientale della Valle d’Aosta, al Santuario di Oropa è un itinerario che ripercorre la storica processione che avviene ogni cinque anni verso il Santuario, tradizione dalle origini antichissime. Il cammino è suddiviso in due tappe, di breve lunghezza ma elevato dislivello, che consigliamo di affrontare in due giorni, senza accorparle, anche perché il pernottamento nel bellissimo rifugio Barma vale da solo il viaggio. È un vero e proprio trekking di montagna, che richiede un buon allenamento, un minimo di esperienza di cammino in quota e attrezzatura adeguata, pur non presentando ferrate o altri passaggi propri dell’alpinismo. Il cammino è chiuso dal 1 ottobre al 30 aprile, perchè potrebbe essere innevato o ghiacciato: anche in primavera e in autunno è bene informarsi sulla transitabilità del colle della Barma (2.257 m s.l.m.), chiamando il rifugio della Barma. Il cammino può essere percorso nelle due direzioni: da Fontainemore al Santuario di Oropa oppure può essere considerato una continuazione del viaggio per coloro che arrivano a Oropa dopo aver percorso il Cammino di Oropa della Serra.
A taste of the Oropa Way
From the Casa del Movimento Lento (Slow Movement House) in Roppolo we follow the signs for the Oropa Way, pass the center and take the path on Via al Monte. After a short uphill stretch we find the first attraction of the day: three wonderful thousand-year-old chestnut trees, which deserve a meditative stop. We then continue to the Ricetto di Viverone, which we can visit with a small detour from the trail. From the panoramic terrace we can admire Lake Viverone and the entire morainic amphitheater of Ivrea, before getting lost in the narrow streets where time seems to have stopped: look carefully at the locks of some of the ancient gates, how old do you think they might be? We resume our journey by following the yellow arrows and entering the forest of the Ivrea Moraine Greenhouse, a unique geological formation in Europe, with its 20 km length. Arriving in Zimone, during the weekend and we can visit the ecomuseum, dedicated to wagons and cart drivers. If you arrive in Zimone around lunchtime, a stop at da Enrico restaurant, one of the most renowned in the area, is a must. We leave the Oropa Way to return toward Roppolo, traveling through one of the many small valleys that innervate the plateau of the moraine greenhouse, heading toward Monte orsetto, an ancient fortification inhabited over the millennia by prehistoric peoples, Celts and Lombards. At one time the forest that now covers the mountain did not exist, and Monte orsetto was in a strategic position to control the whole area. We then descend to Lake Bertignano, A body of water of morainic origin in which in the last century two very ancient wooden pirogues were found that are now kept in the museum in Turin. We then continue to a final must-see site: the amphitheater of Bertignano, a spectacular 100-plus-seat arena built by the Pozzo family, owners of the surrounding land and vineyards, as a tribute to their land and landscape. From here you can admire one of the most beautiful views in Piedmont. We then descend toward Roppolo by following the ancient road that joined the village to the plateau. Author's tip The amphitheater of Bertignano is an excellent vantage point to admire the sunset over Lake Viverone
Torrazzo
The route winds from Bessa Park up the Serra Morenica ridge, passing through small hamlets of villages, farm roads, firebreaks and fun trails. From the center of Mongrando we will walk along Via Repubblica and at a traffic circle our route will begin. We will go straight on via per Cerrione where once we enter Bessa Park, the road will become unpaved. Going along it at km3.2 we will turn right and on a slightly uphill road we will turn right after about 1 km. Taking care after 400 m, we will make a left turn onto a path that after a short descent will take us into the village of Vermogno. Coming out on Via Verdoja we will turn right and then take the first road on our left. Keeping on the dirt slope we will turn right at the crossroads (km 7) until we reach hamlet“ Belvedere”; where we will turn left first and after 200 m turn right (S27). Continuing to the next junction where, turning right, we will pass the hamlet “Parogno”. From here we continue straight until we find the provincial road (SP338) where we will turn first left and then right onto the farm road (S21) that will take us to Torrazzo. Leaving the Church on our right we will continue straight ahead and then turn right onto Via Mombarone (13.7 km). At the next crossroads we will reverse to the left and follow the firebreak (S1) to the junction where, turning right, we will find via per Andrate. Walking this last way uphill for 1 km, we will find on our left a farm road (S9a) that (always keeping our right) will take us to a crossroads of forest roads. Passing it after a few meters on our right we will find a very evident path that we will follow following the green and blue marks until it becomes a wide farm road again. After 400mt from our left paying attention, we will find a path that after a short climb will take us again on the diagonal of the Serra. When we arrive at a crossroads continue straight on the path that enters the forest and then turn first left and then right at the following crossroads. From here, continuing straight on, we will find the provincial road (SP338) where we will turn left and pass the junction for Magnano; we will turn to our right onto a dirt road that we will follow and then turn left for the next three branches. After that we will turn right and then left for the next two junctions. After passing “Cascina Gianetto” we will return to Parogno where, turning right, we will go backwards along a short stretch made uphill and being careful after a bend to the right, we will find on our left a path that after the first bumpy meters (small ford attached) will immediately improve until it enters a dirt road. We will have to turn right first and then after 1.1 km turn left and going straight on we will find the paved road again. Then at the following intersection the provincial road (SP338) that will take us back to the start.
Between lakes and castles, from Cavaglià to Masino
From Cavaglià we set off towards the Castle of Roppolo, from which we will enjoy a wonderful view of Lake Viverone. From here we descend to take the Alta Via dell'Anfiteatro morenico di Ivrea, a beautiful route provided with signs that we follow in a maze of forest roads and cart tracks to reach Masino Castle, an asset managed by the FAI that dominates the Canavese plain. We then descend to Caravino and continue until we cross the Ivrea Canal, whose towpath we follow to Borgo Masino. We leave the canal to reach the private but very picturesque Maglione Lake and continue to the village of Maglione, which is characterized by Macam, an open-air contemporary art museum with more than 150 works by famous artists throughout the historic center. We return following the Vestigné Canal and continue on mostly flat roads to return to Cavaglià.
Oasi Zegna - The Alp Ring
The trail starts from Bocchetto Sessera, where there are beautiful views, and via a dirt road takes us to the small Massaro Lake, just below the Alpe Moncerchio Restaurant. With alternating undergrowth and panoramic stretches of Monte Rosa, passing by a dirt road with unique views of the Valsessera, we return to Bocchetto Sessera.
Ring from Torrazzo to the Pre pond, along the Oropa Way
From the Church of Torrazzo we follow the indications of the Oropa Way, and we forbid on the paths that go through the Serra Morenica of Ivrea, the largest Morena in Europe. With a small detour it is possible to reach the suggestive Cossavella pond, and by returning on our steps we reach the Pre pond. Thus, we enter the path of return that follows the bottom of a morenica valley. Author's advice When in Torrazzo walk between the streets of the country to visit the Museum of Art in the open air : Various artists have donated their works to this small village, and you can admire them on the walls of the houses
Savannah by bicycle
Our cycle tour starts from the Ricetto di Candelo, a fortified structure dating back to medieval times, where the population stored wine and foodstuffs and retreated in case of attacks from outside. Quickly, we enter the Baraggia, a regionally managed nature reserve, which is very reminiscent of the savannah due to its vegetation with dense heathland characterized by aquiline ferns and heather, alternating with vast expanses of grassland. Pedaling through this unusual environment, we arrive to visit and taste the products of two farms, Azienda Agricola La Bruera with its cured meats, and Azienda Agricola Lavino Zona, which grows grains to produce “closed-cycle” beers. Our day continues to Castellengo Castle and a visit to the Cossatese and Baragge Ecomuseum. We then return to Candelo, to visit the impressive Ricetto.
The Oropa Way Oriental route to Vallemosso - Stage 1 - From the Sanctuary of Oropa to the Sanctuary of St. John of Andorno
The itinerary is closed from November 1 until April 30 because it could be grafted or icy. Even in May, inform yourself at the reception facilities on the condition of the route before you leave. From the Sanctuary of Oropa we continue the Way along the Oriental branch. Our destination is the Sanctuary of St. John of Andorno. The stage retraces the footsteps of one of the prominent figures in this area : Senator Rosazza, who at the end of 800 realized at his expense a connecting road and a very ambitious tunnel for the era. During the descent we can admire the beautiful sights on the Cervo valley. We'll probably get there soon, and we'll have all the time to visit the sanctuary complex and rest for the most challenging leg of the following day.
From the Casa del Movimento Lento to the Ricetto of Viverone and the amphitheater of Bertignano
From flat Roppolo we follow the Oropa Trail to reach the Ricetto di Viverone, an ancient fortified warehouse that is still inhabited. After visiting it we continue to the Bertignano viewpoint, where the Pozzo family built an extraordinary amphitheater in a panoramic position. We skirt the vineyards of Erbaluce, a DOCG white wine, and descend to Roppolo where we conclude the short tour. Author's tip Going through the alleys of Ricetto di Viverone, observe the latches on the doors of the ancient warehouses: some are centuries old.
Loop hike from Trappa di Sordevolo to Bagneri
From the Trappa di Sordevolo, an iconic place in the Elvo Valley and now home to the Slow Food Travel Montagne Biellesi community and the Elvo and Serra Valley Ecomuseum, you descend, skirting the stream along a beautiful path through woods and pastures. Crossing the river, you arrive shortly after at Bagneri, a historic hamlet that preserves ancient valley traditions. Here a stop is a must to admire the stream stone sculptures exhibited by artist Cecilia Martin Birsa, pause to browse among the perfectly preserved ancient stone huts and listen to the tolling of the bells. that still mark the days of the villagers. We then return to the trappa, ascending from the left side of the stream along a beautiful scenic path.
Trail of Magnano
Oasi Zegna - The Alp Ring - Piana del Ponte Refuge Variant
The route starts from Bocchetto Sessera, where there is a beautiful view, and via a dirt road you arrive at Leghetto Massaro, just below Alpe Moncerchio Restaurant. With alternating undergrowth and panoramic stretches of Monte Rosa, passing from dirt road to trail sections, you arrive at Alpe Scheggiola. From the cool fountain, refueling is mandatory, pausing to admire a unique panorama and unspoiled landscape. We start again by descending down a single track in a magnificent beech forest and arrive at the Tibetan bridge over the Sessera. With a short portage section, you arrive at a dirt road that leads us to Piana del Ponte. Following this, we climb to Poggio Selletto Grosso and return by the dirt road that takes us back to Bocchetto Sessera. Critical issues of note: The section from Alpe Scheggiola to the Tibetan Bridge is an exposed sigle track, so extreme caution (especially with leaves on the ground). Also from the Tibetan bridge (km 5.9) to the junction to the dirt road (km 6.2) there is a 100-meter stretch of portage.
Oropa Way - Canavese route - Stage 1 - From Valperga to Cuorgné
The first stage of the Way is a short tour of the discovery of the Sacred Mount of Belmonte and the nature reserve that surrounds it. From the parish church of Valperga we cross the beautiful historic center and imbue the anchoolar alley that rises to the church of St. George and the Castle of Valperga. We then continue on asphalt to the stud of the dirt that leads to the Sanctuary of Belmonte. Let's hike alternating traits in the woods at open traits that give us beautiful panoramas on the plain and on the mores amphitheatre of Ivrea. Arriving in the vicinity of the shrine of Belmonte we see to the left the crossroads in which the yellow arrows indicate us to come down to the left. To visit the sanctuary and the Sacred Monte, and admire the 360-degree panorama that admires from the upstream top, we continue to the right, and follow the path that rises to the votive chapels, then return to our steps. Return to the path, enter the steep path that descends into the valley and then folds to the right through a stretch of woods unfortunately damaged by a fire, and we reach the abate of Pemonte. From here we take back the path that falls into the woods, fortunately intact. Let us abandon the path to enter the provincial road that descends towards Cuorgné. This is an interim deviation while waiting for the restoration of a jumper. To return to the paved road to Saint Lucia it is necessary to overcome a small guado on the Levesa rim, for which it is good to be equipped with waterproof shoes. We arrive in Cuorgné, where we can perish and supply us with water and food. Services along the way : Fountains in Valperga, along the climb to the Sacred Mount in Belmonte, at the Sanctuary in Belmonte, along the asphalt road that descends toward Cuorgné. Bar and food at Valperga. Book the overnight stays.
The Oropa cycle path - Oriental route - Stage 1 - From Biella to Oropa
The route takes us from the railway station through the beautiful town of Biella, and then leads us along a fairly demanding climb, but one that can be comfortably tackled even by the less well-trained thanks to the support of an ebike. After passing through the hamlets of Cossila and Favaro, we reach the majestic Sanctuary of Oropa, set in the heart of the Biellese Pre-Alps.
From the lake to the mountain
Passing through La Bessa, La Serra and Tracciolino Special Nature Reserve, you reach the shrine dedicated to the Black Madonna. From here you descend and cross the Piazzo di Biella and the famous Ricetto di Candelo, then return to the starting point.
Oasi Zegna - Blackberry Trail
With entrance from the Caulera bikepark, a short route suitable for even the casual rider. Framing it are wide views of the plains. The starting point is the Caulera bikepark where, via a road through a beautiful forest, you arrive at the Jeb Microbrewery. From the Bellavista hairpin bend (1009m) on the Panoramica Zegna follow the dirt track slightly uphill through birch, fir and chestnut forests on the south side of Mt. Rubello. Wide views over the plains. Cascina Oro (1118 m) is reached. Return by the same route.
Oropa Way - Canavese route - Stage 4 - From Ivrea to Graglia
The Serra Morenica of Ivrea is the protagonist of a long and challenging stage, in which we enter the biellese territory and we enter the main branch of the Way of Oropa. Let us leave the historic center of Ivrea by running the Via Francigena until the Countryside Lake, a pleasant green area in which we can rest before we begin the climb to the beautiful Romanesque church of Santo Stefano di Sessano, post in the panoramic position in the vicinity of the inhabited Chiaverano. We follow by imbuing the ancient road first bowled and then dirt that rises between the woods to the top of the Serra Morenica, and we arrive on the ridge in the vicinity of the Roc Basariund, a spectacular erratic rub, ancient place of worship pay. We arrive at the provincial road to Andrate, where we enter the third leg Cammino della Serra, which we perrier to reach Donato, where we can finally supply us with water and groceries. We therefore affect the challenging saliscenity that leads to the Graglia Sanctuary, placed in a spectacular position that dominates much of the padana plain, where we can perish at the forestation. Services along the way : Fountains in Ivrea, Lake Countryside (km 3, 5), Santo Stefano di Sessano in Chiaverano (km 6, 0), Donato (km 14, 0), along the climb from Netro to Graglia (km 19, 5), at the Sanctuary of Graglia. Bar and food in Ivrea, Chiaverano (1 km off the route), Donato, Sanctuary of Graglia. Book the overnight stays.
The Oropa Way - Aosta Valley route - From the Refuge of the Barma to Oropa
In the second stage of the route we are worth the hill of the Barma in a harsh mountain landscape, where the view gradually opens up to range between the tops of the Valle d' Aosta and the Padana plain. We then descend on the biellese side along a tortuous mill to the location Oropa Sport, the arrival point of the rope that leaves from the sanctuary and we continue to the conca of Oropa, where we enter into the thick woods that surrounds the imposing architectural complex. In the intermediate seasons before leaving it is good to call the Barma shelter to inform themselves about the eventual graft of the Barma buzzer.
Red Banks
Itinerary within the reach of all off-road cyclists (Gravel, mtb, e-bike), winding through fields, vineyards and small villages, giving a tasty taste of the famous and challenging area of the “Rive Rosse,” which represent one of the most interesting destinations in northern Italy for mountain biking and enduro riding. The start is from the headquarters of the Racing Team Rive Rosse in Brusnengo and immediately develops on wide and well cyclable dirt roads, which lead from the woods to the rice fields of eastern Baraggia, to the town of Gattinara. Once through the town, you climb along the vineyards that give one of the finest wines of Alto Piemonte; from here the views become more interesting, allowing wide views of the Po Valley with the vineyards in the foreground. Follow the dirt road to the hamlet of Camino (Roasio) and the next village of Curino before returning to the starting point among the “Bramaterra” vineyards.