Spring in Val Chiusella

A spring trek in the heart of Valchiusella, amidst vibrant woods, clear streams, and small villages steeped in history. Together with the Guidders, we will traverse the 'Sentiero delle Anime' (Path of the Souls), an itinerary that blends nature and tradition, where every step tells a story. A slow, authentic experience perfect for reconnecting with the truest side of the mountains.

The experience

The Sentiero delle Anime unfolds through varied and evocative landscapes: cool forests, flowering meadows, and stretches along crystalline streams that accompany the journey. The path passes through small hamlets and ancient chapels, serving as a testament to the valley's history and spirituality.

The route is smooth but features a steady elevation gain that requires a minimum level of fitness. In spring, the environment is particularly captivating, with intense colors and the scents of nature.

A perfect excursion for those looking for a relaxing trek that is rich in content, nestled between pristine nature and local culture.

If you are looking for a different kind of trek, one filled with nature, silence, and valley tales, the Sentiero delle Anime awaits. Come join the Guidders to experience spring in Valchiusella. Book your spot now!

How hard is it, really

What's included in the price

Itinerary

One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.

Day

9 km · D+ 500 m · 5 h

The stops · 9 km

Meeting point 9:45approximate

Via Guglielmo Marconi 6, 10080 Traversella città metropolitana di Torino, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

HOW TO GET THERE

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09:45MEETING

Meeting point: Traversella

Meeting Point, Parking Area

11:00MOUNTAIN HUT

B. Piazza Mountain Hut

The initial climb is all packed into the first section, leading up to the mountain hut. We'll start on a steep paved road before plunging into a gorgeous forest of beech and chestnut trees, which will gradually gain altitude with each step until we reach the rifugio. Rifugio Piazza enjoys a truly enchanting location, overlooking the valley and offering breathtaking views of the Val Chiusella landscape. On clear days, you can admire the wooded slopes dotted with hamlets, the high pastures, and, in the distance, the first snow-capped peaks.

12:00FOOD STOP

Cappia Plains

From Rifugio Piazza, the trail continues at a steady incline through woods of larch and birch, offering increasingly expansive views of the Chiusella Valley. After a stretch through the forest, you'll encounter the fascinating engraved rocks of the "Sentiero delle Anime" (Path of Souls), a testament to ancient cults and a place of great atmosphere. The route continues through clearings and pastures, alternating between shady sections and open spaces with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. In about an hour's hike, you'll reach the Piani di Cappia, a wide grassy plateau dotted with stone huts and surrounded by larches.

13:00VIEWPOINT

Trail junction

"From Piani di Cappia, the trail gently descends along the Transhumance Trail, following ancient mule tracks once used by shepherds for their seasonal migrations down to the valley. The route crosses expansive pastures before re-entering a chestnut and beech forest, where you'll discover traditional stone-built mountain huts and alpine farms, evocative of a bygone era of mountain life."

14:30MOUNTAIN HUT

Trail to Rifugio Piazza

The trail then winds into a mixed forest of larch, beech, and chestnut trees, where the terrain becomes shadier and the earthy scent of the undergrowth accompanies your walk. Along the way, several scenic viewpoints open up onto the Chiusella Valley, offering stunning views towards the valley floor and the soaring peaks above. Continuing on, you'll encounter a steeper section that leads back to the Rifugio Piazza, completing the loop. In this stretch, the trail retains its timeless charm: dry stone walls, stone steps, and the ancient imprints of footsteps whisper tales of the hardships and daily life of the transhumance, when people and animals shared the slow, steady rhythm of the mountains.

16:00RETURN

Return, Descent, Coming Back, Heading Back.

"We'll retrace our steps along the original trail leading up to the mountain hut."

What to bring

A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.

Questions?