Discover the area

Places, monuments, landscapes and activities around Sparone, with a clear destination for every day. For trekking and hiking routes, the host is happy to suggest the best option for the season and your preferences.

Sparone (TO) · Valle di Ribordone · Canavese

Sparone

Rocca di Re Arduino and Chiesa di Santa Croce (King Arduino's Fortress and Holy Cross Church)

Rocca di Re Arduino and Chiesa di Santa Croce (King Arduino's Fortress and Holy Cross Church)

The remains of the fortress overlook the village from above and tell the medieval story of Sparone. Next to it stands the ancient Church of Santa Croce, home to important works of art.

Old copper forges and mills

Old copper forges and mills

The forges used the power of the Ribordone stream to drive the hammers and work the metal: one of the most distinctive traces of the local craft history.

Fucina dei Mestoli (Ladle Forge)Fucina dei Mestoli (Ladle Forge)

Fucina dei Mestoli (Ladle Forge)

The tradition of coppersmiths and old valley trades, showing how water and minerals shaped Sparone's economic life.

Ribordone Valley

Old copper mines of Ceresa and CaramiaOld copper mines of Ceresa and Caramia

Old copper mines of Ceresa and Caramia

Mining history and alpine scenery come together along mountain trails: the host can point you to the best route and current access conditions.

Santuario di Prascondù (Prascondù Sanctuary)

Santuario di Prascondù (Prascondù Sanctuary)

In the upper part of the valley, this is one of the most important historic and religious sites in the area, and a beautiful destination even for a simple visit.

Hamlets and alpine architecture

Hamlets and alpine architecture

Small hamlets and rural buildings tell the story of traditional mountain life, in an authentic setting far from mass tourism.

Pont Canavese

Santuario di Santa Maria in Doblazio and old ossuary

Santuario di Santa Maria in Doblazio and old ossuary

On the promontory of Monte Uliveto stands one of the oldest churches dedicated to Mary in the area, with an ancient ossuary full of history and atmosphere.

Torri Ferranda and Tellaria (Ferranda and Tellaria towers)

Torri Ferranda and Tellaria (Ferranda and Tellaria towers)

These two medieval towers are the symbol of the town and recall its strategic role guarding access to the valleys.

Museo del Territorio delle Valli Orco e Soana (Orco and Soana Valleys Museum)

History, culture and traditions of the valleys: an ideal visit for rainy days too.

The historic bridges

The historic bridges

Pont Canavese lies at the confluence of the Orco and Soana rivers and is known for its many bridges, including an old suspension bridge.

Orco Valley and Gran Paradiso

Cascata di Noasca (Noasca Waterfall)

Cascata di Noasca (Noasca Waterfall)

One of the most striking natural sights in the valley: part of the path even lets you view the waterfall from behind.

Lago di Ceresole Reale (Ceresole Reale Lake)

Lago di Ceresole Reale (Ceresole Reale Lake)

A large lake surrounded by the mountains of Gran Paradiso National Park, perfect for walks, photos and relaxing.

Laghi Serrù e Agnel (Serrù and Agnel Lakes)

Laghi Serrù e Agnel (Serrù and Agnel Lakes)

Climbing towards the Nivolet you'll find two alpine lakes among the most spectacular viewpoints of the upper Orco Valley.

Colle del Nivolet (Nivolet Pass)

Colle del Nivolet (Nivolet Pass)

Above 2,600 metres: lakes, high-altitude pastures and sweeping views over the Gran Paradiso massif. The road is a favourite among drivers, motorcyclists and cyclists; access varies with the season.

Homo et Ibex Visitor Centre – Ceresole Reale

Homo et Ibex Visitor Centre – Ceresole Reale

Dedicated to the relationship between people and the ibex, the symbol of the Park: especially interesting for families.

Noasca Visitor Centre

Noasca Visitor Centre

Tells the story of the Orco Valley's landscape and the action of glaciers: a good cultural alternative on days less suited to the outdoors.

Metalworking tradition of Locana

Metalworking tradition of Locana

Traces of the old trades of the Orco Valley, echoing the history of the forges and copperworking of Sparone.

Via ferratas and climbing

Via Ferrata di Pont Canavese

Demanding and highly varied, with vertical walls, chimneys, exposed traverses, overhangs and suspension bridges: it requires experience and good preparation. Always check it's open before setting off.

Via Ferrata di Locana – San Lorenzo / Piantonetto

Shorter and more accessible, with equipped walls and a suspension bridge: also suitable for those new to via ferratas. Check the route is open beforehand.

Climbing in the Orco Valley

Climbing in the Orco Valley

A valley well known among climbers: the host can point you to crags and routes suited to your level and current conditions.

Winter activities

Cross-country skiing at Ceresole Reale

Cross-country skiing at Ceresole Reale

A network of cross-country ski trails, including the scenic loop around the lake: one of the main winter activities in the Orco Valley.

Ice waterfalls

In winter some waterfalls become ice-climbing routes: a specialist activity, only for those with experience, proper equipment and checked conditions.

A day exploring the area

History and culture in the village of Sparone and in Pont Canavese; mines and craft traditions in the Ribordone Valley; waterfalls, lakes and grand landscapes as you climb the Orco Valley; and finally the high mountains of Gran Paradiso National Park.

The host is always at your service

The host is available for questions, doubts and advice before and during your stay.

  • ·Available for questions and doubts about walks, trails, trekking, via ferratas, climbing and cycling routes depending on the season and your experience
  • ·Suggestions on villages, museums, restaurants and family activities
  • ·Help with check-in, check-out and any practical need during your stay

Opening times, accessibility, road conditions, seasonal closures and via ferrata access can change: it's worth checking the latest conditions before you set off. The host is happy to help.