There is a corner of Piedmont where time seems to have stopped, enclosed in the majestic embrace of the peaks that are reflected like clear mirrors. About an hour and a half from Turin along the Orco Valley you arrive at Ceresole Reale, an Alpine pearl set at 1582 meters above sea level in the Gran Paradiso National Park. Here is Lake Ceresole Reale, characterized by a 7.5 kilometer circular cycle/pedestrian path that can be easily explored on foot or by bike.
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We opted for two wheels, ready to enjoy every single glimpse on our mountain bikes. Having parked the camper in one of the spaces along the road (but there are also several paid car parks conveniently overlooking the cycle/pedestrian path), we got on our bikes and took the dirt path that runs alongside the artificial basin and which crosses numerous picnic areas and rock climbing walls.
@RebeccaManzi/GreenMe
Unfortunately, climate changes made themselves felt here too and the lake was quite dry, a clear symptom of the very low rainfall in recent months. A significant detail which however did not affect the beauty of this unique place.
@RebeccaManzi/GreenMe
Cycling on the imposing dam towards the power station
Between gentle ups and downs, lush meadows and breathtaking views of the mountains reflected in the blue water, we cycled until we reached the imposing dam, inaugurated in 1931 in the presence of Prince Umberto of Savoy after the submersion of the old basin. Cycling its 300 meters of length offers a unique thrill and a dizzying view of the reservoir that powers the Rosone hydroelectric power plant, combining the wild beauty of nature with the industrial history of the Orco Valley.
@RebeccaManzi/GreenMe
Leaving the dam behind, our exploration on two wheels continued along the opposite side, where the road becomes asphalted and completely immersed in the shade of large conifers until reaching the central Villa dell’Iren. A little further on we saw our camper parked: we had arrived at the end of the circular route between the wild beauty of nature and the industrial history of the Orco Valley.
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The paths and peaks that open around Ceresole Reale
In addition to the cycle/pedestrian path, this fresh and evocative area is a true paradise for mountain lovers thanks to an infinite network of paths that branch out in every direction to discover breathtaking views. From the shores of the lake and the surrounding woods, famous trails lead into the wild heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, the undisputed kingdom of chamois, ibex, eagles and marmots.
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Among the most popular destinations, the path that goes up to Lake Dres at 2087 meters below the Levanne peaks, the itinerary towards the Bellagarda Lakes or the walk that leads to the Guglielmo Jervis Refuge at an altitude of 2250 meters stand out. For those who want to go further, the road that goes up from Ceresole leads up to the 2612 meters of Colle del Nivolet, a spectacular Alpine pass free of light pollution, also perfect for admiring the starry sky.
The grand finale and the stop at the magnificent Noasca waterfall
Having completed the ring around the lake and returned to the starting point, our day of exploration could only end with one last unmissable wonder along the way back. Stopping first in front of it and then near the characteristic church of Noasca, we admired the magnificent Noasca Waterfall from a privileged perspective, with its thunderous 32 meter drop that falls between the rocks and stone houses of the village.
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We preferred to contemplate this spectacle from below, but for those who want an even more immersive experience, a hiking trail starts from there which climbs steeply into the woods, crosses a cave in the rock and allows you to literally walk behind the waterfall. Our adventure in the Piedmont mountains is over and it’s time to return home but this day gave us a sense of profound peace and authentic freedom that we will hardly forget.
@RebeccaManzi/GreenMe
