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You will run out of time before you discover all the charming surprises that Chisone valley and the surrounding area has to offer.
SerreMarchetto and Grandubbione Choose a stroll in the neighborhood or between Monte Cucetto climb or Grandubbione 7 bridges loop. You could mountain bike to the end of our road and the quaint hamlets of Grandubbione or drive over in the car for the less challenging option. Then mix it up with the greater Val Chisone offerings.
Lower Chisone
Hannibal’s Bridge: Local legend has it that General Hannibal and his men camped in this area during his 218 AD military campaign from Spain, crossing the alps in 15 days. It is said that he chose this area for its reputation and dairy products, to help him nourish his troops and to recruit local tribes who were known not to get along with the tribes further on his route. This event is commemorated by this bridge in nearby Dubbione by the river.
Agnelli chiesa
The natural beauty of Val Chisone is evident as you progress up the valley. The 3 regional parks help protect and preserve these natural resources for the enjoyment of visitors and locals alike, for years to come. There has been a revival of interest in traditional murals and vertical meridians. You will see many colorful murals depicting mountain life, decorating many municipal and private residences through out the valley and this part of Europe.
Val Chisone and Germanasca has a rich tapestry of history. Known, even today, as the Waldensen (Valdesian) Valleys, they are called so after the flight from religious prosecution in France where this Protestant sect originated in the 12th century. You will find evidence of this history through out our valleys.
The Prali area of Val Germansca, across the way from us, features, Tredici laghi’s (13 lakes) above tree line walking, which is chairlift accessible daily, July and August and the first 3 weekends in September. You’ll find plenty of wildflowers and the remnants of old military buildings, amongst the small lakes. You might even see a marmot or two.
Under 10 for a round trip ticket for both chairlifts is a bargain and a great place for a picnic or simple lunch at the bar on top. The lift will accommodate your mountain bike as well, making a day of mountain biking at the top an achievable goal. Even non-walkers can enjoy the ride to the Pian dell Alpet. 4,725ft (1440m) for the views and maybe a coffee or something a bit stronger at the mountain side bar and modest restaurant or on to the top, by foot or on the second chairlift to il Bric Rond, at 7,382ft (2250m), either of which will take you to the Tredici laghi walk. It’s breathtaking beauty should not be missed nor a chance to just soak up the mountains beauty. Don’t forget your sun cream.
Scopriminiera: is a functioning talc mine, that offers daily tours and can be an excellent choice if you enjoy exploring inside the earth or if the weather decides not to be cooperative.
Wander through Pomaretto’s highest vineyard and later sample some of Val Chisone’s own Ramie wine.
Sample Bernard Family’s famous Genepy and Barathier elixirs, whose herbs are wild crafted in the high country, providing income for our Waldensen (Valdesian) neighbors.
Fenestrelle Fortress with its almost 4,000 steps, it is considered to be the largest fortress in Europe. Daily guided 3 or 8 hour trips in English upon arrangement. It is quite the impressive sight built up the side of the mountain, taking over 125 years to complete, only not to be needed.
Usseaux affords you a better view of the entire length of Fenestrelle fortress and a wander through the quaint village covered with murals and a bit of a circular hike up if you choose, through the Parco Orsiera Rocciavre will yield some spectacular views. It is a great choice for a day’s outing.
Pragelato: 2006 Olympic Ski Jumping & Flying area and Nordic set track Mecca, next to Val Troncea Park.
Sestriere: Famous ski area and site of the 2006 Winter Olympic Downhill races and annual World Cup races. Sestriere boasts of the highest golf course in Europe with magnificent views of Chaberton, Rognosa, Grangesises, just to name a few. Stop in and see what Carlo the wood carver has been working on and try the local specialty sandwich, Gofri, made fresh and to order. Start with a savory prosciutto crudo, mozzarella and finish with a Nutella (chocolate hazelnut) one, washed down with some local Dolcetto wine.
Bella Baita is an excellent choice to make us your base to explore the many Val Chisone options. Return to your home sweet home, relax outside on our patio with some local beverages, wine or local micro brewed beer and sample the excellent Piemontese cuisine and fellowship. The choice is yours.
