Monte Fenera from Boca: caves, stone gardens and the balcony facing Monte Rosa

Fenera is a low mountain full of surprises: caves where Neanderthal remains were found, pink limestone walls, chestnut woods and, on top, a view that in November runs from Monviso to Monte Rosa. It is the late-autumn walk par excellence, when the high peaks are already white.

The route

We start from Fenera Annunziata, above Boca, and climb among chestnuts and beeches to the Grotta delle Arenarie and the limestone walls locals call stone gardens. From there the trail reaches the cross on Monte Fenera, 899 m, in half an hour.

Summit lunch with views over the Alps and the plain, then a loop descent via the Annunziata church.

Who it's for

• families with children: the caves are the attraction
• anyone after an easy late-autumn walk with a real view
• dog owners

Good to know

The caves are seen from outside; guided visits inside are organised by the park by reservation. Packed lunch. Boca is also wine country: anyone keen stops at a cellar on the way back.

Getting there

Fenera Annunziata is an hour and twenty from Milan: A26 to Romagnano Sesia, then Boca and the road to the hamlet. Free parking at the park entrance. Car pooling in the outing's Telegram group.