Hiking in the Varaita Valley
In addition to the pleasures of the table, Pontechianale offers versatile and special points of interest for lovers of trekking and mountain peace. Many trails and hikes suitable for nature lovers and extreme sports enthusiasts alike.
The lake of pontechianale
This is a very popular artificial lake, created by the dam at Castello di Pontechianale, built in 1942. It is an ideal spot for easy walks suitable for everyone, with a route connecting the hamlet of Castello to the main town of Pontechianale.
This lake is one of the focal points for tourism in the valley, offering picturesque scenery and opportunities for various recreational activities. During the summer, the lake becomes an ideal place for hiking and picnics, thanks to the paths that wind along its wooded shores. In winter, the snowy landscape offers a magical setting for nature walks.
The lake is also known for the Borgata Chiesa di Pontechianale, a hamlet that was submerged due to the construction of the dam. During low water periods, the remains of this ancient hamlet emerge from the water, turning into a curious destination for hikers and historians, who can explore the remaining structures visible when the water level drops.
Colle dell’Agnello (Hill of the Lamb)
Colle dell’Agnello is one of the highest and most scenic Alpine passes in Italy, located at 2744 metres above sea level at the head of the Varaita Valley. This pass is the second highest road pass in the country, surpassed only by the Stelvio Pass. During the summer months, the Colle dell’Agnello attracts cycling and motorcycling enthusiasts from all over Europe, thanks to its steep and scenic roads that offer challenges and breathtaking views.
The hill is also famous for being the site of some of the most challenging stages of the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, making it a landmark in cycling culture. In addition to sportsmen, the pass also attracts astrophiles and nature photographers, who take advantage of the altitude and low light pollution for exceptional stargazing and photographic observations.
In winter, the area around the Colle dell’Agnello turns into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with ski mountaineering and snowshoeing in a spectacular alpine environment.
walking through the woods in pontechianale
The Alevè Forest, located in the Varaita Valley, Piedmont, covers an area of about 825 hectares, from 1,500 to 2,500 metres above sea level. This area is famous for its vast expanse of stone pine, making it the largest of its kind in the Alps. The forest is a natural habitat for many animal species and offers a range of natural scenery from dense coniferous forests to alpine lakes such as Lago Secco and Lago Bagnour.
Historically, the forest has been known since antiquity, mentioned in Virgil’s Aeneid and Pliny the Elder’s Naturalis Historia. Today, it is protected as an EU Site of Community Interest, with careful management to preserve both its biodiversity and historical value.
Visitors to the forest can enjoy well-maintained and signposted trails, which offer the possibility of exploring both on foot and with snowshoes during the winter.
The Blue Lakes Trail
The Pontechianale Blue Lakes Trail is a hiking route in the Piedmont Alps, famous for its crystal-clear waters and enchanting mountain landscape. The trail crosses several lakes, each known for its intense blue colour, offering spectacular views of Monviso. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and discover the local flora and fauna. The route is accessible to hikers of all levels and provides an immersive experience in Alpine nature, making it ideal for a day outdoors.
The Pontechianale Blue Lakes Trail is generally suitable for hikers of all ages and experience levels. The duration of the route may vary, but it is typically ideal for day trips, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the place without excessive physical exertion. This makes the trail accessible and enjoyable for both families and more experienced hikers.